Today's top Malaysian news, sport and lifestyle.
Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook has publicly criticized members of Pakatan Harapan and the DAP for flouting motorcycle helmet laws, directing the Road Transport Department to issue compounds against all violators regardless of political affiliation.
Malaysia's national railway operator is expanding train services significantly ahead of the Johor state election this weekend, adding over 7,000 seats across key routes with promotional discounts to ease voter travel.
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Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has increased funding for taxi modernisation by RM10 million and announced a dedicated financing scheme for drivers purchasing the Proton S70 vehicle.
Malaysia's MADANI Taxi Reform Programme marks a significant shift in the taxi industry, enabling drivers to own their vehicles outright rather than lease them. The initiative features Proton S70 sedans and introduces digital advertising and e-hailing integration.
The Malaysian government has approved an additional RM10 million to support its matching grant programme aimed at enabling taxi operators to replace ageing vehicles, addressing long-standing concerns about the fleet's condition.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has pledged an extra RM10 million to accelerate the taxi industry's modernisation drive, complementing initial Budget 2026 funding and a new partnership enabling drivers to finance Proton S70 vehicles.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke has cautioned MyLesen B2 programme beneficiaries that their free motorcycle licences carry responsibility, not permission to race. He highlighted that motorcyclists account for 60% of road fatalities, mostly among those under 30.
The Sultan of Selangor has praised Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for completing the Shah Alam Line LRT3 project and restoring five cancelled stations, describing the rail link as essential infrastructure for reducing congestion across the Klang Valley.
Malaysia has introduced mandatory health screening for vocational drivers renewing their licences under the Healthy and Safe Driver Programme, with government subsidising most costs amid rising road fatality rates.
A total of 885 residents from rural Julau have completed the Class B2 Probationary Driving Licence Assistance Programme, gaining eligibility for subsidised fuel—a significant relief for smallholders and rural workers facing rising petrol costs.
Batik Air will launch twice-daily flights between Bintulu and Kuala Lumpur starting July 20, following government negotiations over rising fares and limited capacity.
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Transport Minister Anthony Loke has defended a significant increase in traffic violation fines, arguing that steeper penalties are essential to deter dangerous driving behaviour as Malaysia grapples with a mounting road safety crisis.
Malaysia plans to increase maximum traffic compounds from current levels to RM500 for over 700 road offences through amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987, pending parliamentary approval.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has signalled a fundamental shift in Malaysia's transport strategy, indicating that while highways remain part of the infrastructure landscape, future development will prioritize smarter, more connected public transit systems.