Violent crimes, property crimes and narcotics-related offences have risen since the suspension of arrests under the Prevention of Crime Act 1959 (Poca) following a Federal Court ruling in 2022, according to the deputy home minister as reported recently. Such an increase raises important questions about the role of preventive laws like Poca in deterring crime….
On January 4, 2024, at around 10pm, I was crossing a two-lane road in the town of Sungai Petani, Kedah. Unfortunately, I was struck by a speeding motorcyclist while crossing the street. The impact caused extensive injuries: I suffered compound fractures to the tibia and fibula of my left leg, received more than 60 stitches…
The increase in the number of doctorate holders in Malaysia, both from public and private institutions, raises important questions about the true calibre of these graduates. While having a doctorate is a significant academic achievement, the legitimacy of the qualifications and the quality of scholarship among these recipients can vary widely. The rise in doctorate…
A new house arrest Bill, which will allow house arrest as an alternative punishment for certain offences, is set to be tabled in Parliament next year. The matter has piqued the public’s interest, as such an alternative sentence is being considered for the first time. According to Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, 20,000…
NST reported yesterday about the case involving the plastic waste recycling plant fined RM50,000 by the Sungai Petani Sessions Court for operating without an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) raises significant concerns regarding environmental protection and regulatory enforcement in Malaysia. While the fine was within the legal limits set by the Environmental Quality Act 1974, many…
The awarding of honorary doctorate degrees and appointments as adjunct professors by certain Malaysian colleges and universities has sparked significant debate in recent years, particularly regarding the qualifications of some recipients. The recipients of honorary doctorate degrees and appointments of adjunct professors are typically intended to recognise individuals for their exceptional contributions to society, culture,…
LETTERS: The New Straits Times (NST) reported that since Sept 11 this year, police launched ‘Op Global’, a nationwide operation targeting charity homes linked to GlSB Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISBH), suspected of child exploitation and promoting alleged indoctrination. Since then, hundreds of suspects were arrested, and hundreds of adults and children rescued. According to NST,…
The use of fake state titles and academic awards, including those from unaccredited institutions, highlights a growing issue of status-consciousness and social prestige in Malaysia over the past two decades. These are individuals who lack both shame and moral character. Several factors have contributed to this phenomenon. In Malaysian society, titles and status are highly…
