Umno President Ahmad Zahid Hamidi responded to accusations that the party is exploiting people's suffering for political gain by advocating for additional withdrawals from the Employees Provident Fund (EPF). He emphasized that their request reflects the people's needs, not political maneuvering. Zahid, along with former Prime Minister Najib Razak, is advocating for another round of EPF withdrawals following three government-approved schemes since 2020. He suggested that Umno's influence in government would facilitate such decisions, framing it as a lesson for the future.

The Health and Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministries of Malaysia have set a ceiling price for two Covid-19 vaccines available for private purchase at healthcare facilities. The maximum wholesale and retail prices for Sinovac and Sinopharm vaccines have been announced, with enforcement by the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency starting January 15 under the Price Control And Anti-Profiteering Act. The prices exclude service charges, and facilities must display prices for transparency. Violations can result in significant fines or imprisonment.

Health experts in Malaysia predict that the Ministry of Health will report between 3,000 to 5,000 new Covid-19 cases daily for the foreseeable future. They caution about a potential Omicron wave and stress the importance of adhering to standard operating procedures and getting booster shots.

Malaysia recorded 3,997 new Covid-19 infections, an increase from the previous day's count of 3,683 cases, bringing the cumulative number of cases to 2,754,513. The breakdown of cases by state will be available on the CovidNow website after midnight. A total of 948 patients were hospitalised for Covid-19, with the overall hospital bed utilisation rate at 63.3%, of which 28.3% were related to Covid-19.

A total of 948 patients were hospitalized for Covid-19 in Malaysia, a decrease from the previous day. The hospital utilization rate was 63.3%, with 28.3% attributed to Covid-19. Kelantan had the highest hospitalization rate at 83.4%. The Health Ministry reported 3,683 new infections, with Selangor logging the highest number of new cases at 962. There were 41,682 active Covid-19 cases, with 288 in intensive care and 162 on ventilators.

Lembah Pantai MP Fahmi Fadzil has questioned the authorization for the conversion of six land plots in Kuala Lumpur, designated for flood retention ponds, for development. He refuted claims that the approvals occurred during Pakatan Harapan's administration.

Parent-teacher associations and education groups have praised the Kuala Lumpur High Court's decision to dismiss a suit challenging the legality of vernacular schools in Malaysia. The court ruled that these schools, which use mother tongues like Chinese and Tamil, are constitutional. Advocates argue that multilingual education reflects Malaysia's diversity and should be maintained, while the focus should be on improving national schools. Critics of vernacular schools had claimed they violate the Federal Constitution, but the court found these schools are not required to use Malay as the medium of instruction. The ruling has been celebrated by supporters as a step towards unity and educational progress.

The Health Ministry reported 23 new Covid-19 deaths in the past 24 hours, bringing the total fatalities to 31,392. All 23 deaths were classified as backlog cases, with four being dead on arrival. Johor and Terengganu reported the highest fatalities at four each, while several other states also reported new deaths. The national average was 11 deaths per million people, with Terengganu having the highest at 31 deaths per million.

Malaysia recorded 3,683 new Covid-19 cases, bringing the total to 2.75 million. The case breakdown by state will be available on the CovidNow website after midnight. Yesterday, 971 coronavirus patients were hospitalized, with the overall hospital bed utilization rate at 65%, of which 27.9% are Covid-19 patients.

Malaysians from diverse backgrounds are uniting to provide flood relief, demonstrating solidarity and mutual support despite political rhetoric. Volunteers, including young people and various organizations, are leading efforts to aid flood victims in the Klang Valley and other affected regions. Criticism is directed at the government's slow response, while community-driven initiatives are praised for their effectiveness and inclusivity.

Manufacturers in flood-affected areas in Malaysia have suffered nearly RM180 million in damages, with expectations of further losses. The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers and the Malaysian Employers Federation are urging the government for extended financial support, including loan moratoriums and tax waivers, to help businesses recover. The floods have severely disrupted production, supply chains, and logistics, particularly in Shah Alam and Klang, and have impacted various sectors including manufacturing, retail, and transport services.

Flood victims in Malaysia may face challenges as not all insurance policies cover flood-related claims and damages to property and vehicles, according to the General Insurance Association of Malaysia (PIAM).

Ministers returning from overseas must comply with quarantine orders, as stated by Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin. Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob has ordered all ministers abroad to return home immediately. The health authority is investigating whether Hulu Langat MP Hasanuddin Mohd Yunus adhered to quarantine protocols after attending an OIC conference in Istanbul. Hasanuddin was ordered to quarantine at home for seven days upon his return. If found in breach of the home surveillance order, he would be fined RM1,000.

Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin advises self-testing for Covid-19 before visiting other houses during Christmas and New Year holidays, emphasizing compliance with standard operating procedures. He urges symptomatic individuals to stay home and those in home quarantine to isolate from family members to prevent outbreaks. Eligible individuals are encouraged to get booster shots.

The Health Ministry has detected 49 new Omicron cases, raising the total to 62, with most cases being imported. Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin highlighted that the Institute for Medical Research confirmed these cases through PCR genotyping and genome sequencing. The majority of infections were found among umrah pilgrims from Saudi Arabia, with some returnees not adhering to quarantine rules. The government is promoting booster shots for travelers and investigating a case involving a former detainee who tested positive in Indonesia. The ministry is in communication with the Indonesian Embassy for further details.

Malaysia may experience an Omicron outbreak through local transmission, as indicated by a case in Sarawak involving a person with no recent overseas travel. Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin highlighted the potential for increased cases and the uncertainty regarding the variant's severity compared to Delta. Preventive measures, including booster shot administrations, will be enhanced, and travelers are advised to get booster shots before their trips.

The Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) forecasts a monsoonal surge from next Monday to Friday, with potential thunderstorms and continuous rain in east Sabah and west Sarawak from December 27-30. Johor, Pahang, Terengganu, and Kelantan are expected to experience similar conditions on December 30 and 31. The South China Sea, including the east coast of the peninsula, will face stormy conditions from December 26 to 31. MetMalaysia advises travelers to these areas to stay informed and cautious, and will monitor the weather situation 24/7, issuing warnings as necessary.

Covid-19 cases in Malaysia remained above 3,000 for the third consecutive day, with 3,510 new infections reported, bringing the cumulative total to 2,731,713. Hospitalisation data showed 959 people admitted for Covid-19, with a nationwide hospital bed utilisation rate of 63.9%, of which 27.8% were for Covid-19 cases. Detailed state-wise case breakdowns will be available on the CovidNow website after midnight.

Twitter users in Malaysia reported attempts by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to have Twitter remove tweets critical of the government's flood management. Twitter's legal team informed users of the request but did not take action against the content. Users, a member of Parliament, and activists expressed their concerns over the government's attempt to suppress freedom of expression, while Twitter was praised for upholding users' rights.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) reported offensive hashtags to Twitter to ensure compliance with Malaysian laws, specifically section 233 of the Communication and Multimedia Act 1998. Twitter users claimed MCMC attempted to censor tweets critical of the government's flood response. Despite MCMC's request, Twitter did not take action against the tweets, emphasizing its commitment to user rights. Criticism was directed at government ministers Rina Mohd Harun and Noh Omar for their handling of the flood situation.

Pakatan Harapan lawmakers in Selangor expressed their dissatisfaction with the state and federal government's delayed response to the floods in their constituencies. Despite Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob's instructions, aid was slow to arrive, with civil society groups and volunteers being the first responders. The heavy rainfall and flooding, exacerbated by the northeast monsoon, seemed to catch authorities off guard, despite prior warnings. The floods have resulted in 11 deaths and over 40,000 displaced individuals across several states, including Selangor and Pahang. Lawmakers criticized the lack of government coordination and preparedness, with some victims left stranded without assistance.

The army has been deployed to assist flood victims in Klang Utama, as confirmed by local MP Charles Santiago. The military is coordinating with Santiago's office to provide relief, with plans to extend support to Sri Muda. Santiago had previously urged for immediate deployment due to severe flooding, with homes submerged under 2 to 6 feet of water. Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein had instructed Armed Forces Chief of Staff Lt-Gen Mohd Zakaria Yadi to assist with the situation.

Muda has successfully raised over RM1 million in less than 100 hours to aid flood victims, surpassing their initial target of RM10,000. The funds will be used for food, post-flood clean-up, and other needs. Muda has advised donors to redirect their contributions to Pertubuhan Demokrat Sosial and Mercy Malaysia Flood Relief. Muda's vice-president, Thanussha Francis Xavier, expressed gratitude for the public's generosity, while founder Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman assured that all donations will be audited for transparency.

Pahang flood victims are urging for more attention and aid, as they feel overshadowed by the focus on Selangor. Social media users and local assemblyman Young Syefura Othman highlight the dire situation and lack of preparations, with many victims still in need of food, clothes, and rescue efforts. Public donations are currently funding relief efforts in Ketari, with thousands seeking shelter at relief centers.

Nurul Izzah Anwar criticized Putrajaya for not preparing a strategic flood mitigation plan despite her warnings in July about the monsoon season. She has been collaborating with expert Jhovanz Tan since 2018 on flood issues in Permatang Pauh and hopes the strategies discussed can be applied elsewhere. Recent floods in Selangor and other states have highlighted the urgency of the situation.

Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob acknowledged delays in delivering aid to flood victims in Selangor due to an unexpected downpour that caught authorities unprepared. The rainfall was equivalent to a month's worth, leading to rapid water level rises and disorderly situations. The government is considering using helicopters to deliver aid to inaccessible areas. While the situation has improved in Terengganu, states like Pahang are still facing rising water levels. The east coast states are better prepared for the annual monsoon season compared to Selangor.

Klang MP Charles Santiago issued an urgent call for four-wheel drive vehicles and boats to aid flood victims, highlighting a shortage of manpower and resources. He emphasized the need for more volunteers and donations of essential items. Public posts revealed severe flooding in Selangor, with significant areas affected. Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari requested federal assistance, while Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob responded late, promising to mobilize various agencies. The Meteorological Department warned of continued heavy rain, exacerbating the crisis.

More than 11,000 people in 4,500 households have been affected by massive floods in Malaysia, with Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob stating that the government's priority is to evacuate those still trapped. As of last night, 188 temporary flood relief centers have been set up across several states, with Selangor being particularly hard-hit. The government has mobilized 66,015 personnel from various agencies for rescue and aid missions, and the Social Welfare Department and National Disaster Management Agency are handling food supplies for the displaced.

Residents of Taman Sri Muda in Shah Alam, Malaysia, are facing severe shortages of food and medical supplies following floods that have left them stranded. Despite Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob's assurances that rescue efforts are underway and that food shortages at relief centers have been addressed, many victims remain trapped in their homes without food, electricity, or medication. The area, one of the worst-hit, is currently only accessible by boat due to the high water levels.

Flood victims in Malaysia are using social media to call for help, with some still trapped in homes submerged in flood waters. Hashtags like #DaruratBanjir and #bantubanjir are trending on Twitter. Victims are in urgent need of rescue, including in the severely affected Sri Muda neighborhood in Shah Alam, Selangor. Despite boats being sighted, rescues have not yet occurred, and there are reports of rising water levels, lack of food, and electricity cuts. The Fire and Rescue Department and the Civil Defence Force are involved in the rescue efforts, and Muda's vice president, Dr. Thanussha Francis Xavier, is requesting speedboats to evacuate victims.

Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) achieved a super majority in the Sarawak elections, positioning itself as a key player in the upcoming general election. Analysts attribute GPS's success to the opposition's disorganization and lack of preparation. GPS's control over the narrative and political development in Sarawak, along with its perceived stability, contributed to its victory. The opposition, including Pakatan Harapan and Parti Sarawak Bersatu, failed to present a united front. The article also highlights the potential need for Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional to align with GPS to secure federal power. The timing of the general election is expected to be influenced by internal power struggles within Umno.

The Inland Revenue Board (IRB) has clarified that it can only access taxpayers' bank account details in cases involving garnishee proceedings, as stipulated in section 106A of the Income Tax Act 1967, part of the Finance Bill 2021. This power is not absolute and requires a court order. The provision aims to manage the country's direct tax regime effectively, minimize tax evasion, and increase compliance. Concerns about arbitrary access to bank accounts are addressed, emphasizing that access is limited to civil proceedings involving garnishee orders.

Stakeholders have expressed concern that bullying in schools remains a persistent issue due to inadequate resolution and enforcement measures, calling for stricter disciplinary actions within educational institutions.

Malaysia has experienced a significant decline in dengue cases since 2019, with a 72.2% reduction in reported cases and an 86.4% decrease in fatalities this year compared to the previous year. All states reported reductions in dengue cases, with Selangor having the highest number of cases but still significantly lower than the previous year. Preventive measures recommended by the Health Ministry include using mosquito repellents, avoiding heavily populated areas, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.

Najib Razak expressed disappointment over Court of Appeal judge Abdul Karim Abdul Jalil's remarks calling the SRC International Sdn Bhd case a national embarrassment. Najib compared this to the foreign exchange scandal during Dr Mahathir Mohamad's administration, which he described as a much more colossal national embarrassment. Najib highlighted his contributions to national wealth and criticized the Pakatan Harapan government for not proceeding with the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the forex scandal. Najib's lawyer, Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, also criticized Karim's remarks as unnecessary.

The Court of Appeal's decision to uphold Najib Razak's conviction in the SRC International case will not affect his other trials, according to his lawyer Muhammad Shafee Abdullah. Shafee criticized the judgment, claiming it did not consider new evidence and expressed confidence that the Federal Court will overturn the decision. Najib faces additional charges related to 1MDB funds, and his legal team has filed an appeal and a motion for a stay of execution.

Former Prime Minister Najib Razak expressed disappointment following the Court of Appeal's decision to uphold his conviction and sentence in the SRC International Sdn Bhd case. Najib, who was found guilty of money-laundering, criminal breach of trust, and abuse of power, reiterated that he did not know about nor direct the transfer of RM42 million into his account. He has sworn on his faith and instructed his lawyers to appeal at the Federal Court.

Inbound travellers to Malaysia must take a Covid-19 RT-PCR test two days before departure, as announced by Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin. This applies to six categories of travellers, with varying requirements for testing and quarantine based on their category and vaccination status. Travellers from countries with a temporary travel ban or Omicron outbreaks face stricter measures, including mandatory quarantine and digital tracking devices. The MySejahtera application is used for reporting test results.

Hartal Doktor Kontrak is prepared to mobilize 5,000 to 7,000 contract doctors for a nationwide strike if the Malaysian cabinet does not respond favorably to their demands for permanent postings and fair treatment. Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin has indicated that the issue will be discussed in the cabinet. The group has previously staged protests and submitted a memorandum to the government. The decision from the cabinet is awaited before any further action is taken.

Health Ministry director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah has raised concerns over the increasing number of Covid-19 clusters in educational institutions, with 12 out of 16 recent clusters detected in secondary schools and tertiary institutes. He emphasized the importance of adhering to standard operating procedures (SOP) despite high vaccination rates among adolescents and adults. The Education Ministry has established SOPs for all school-related activities, and the public is urged to maintain preventive measures to avoid complacency.

The Health Ministry of Malaysia reported 40 new Covid-19 deaths, increasing the total to 30,614. These were backlog cases recently confirmed as virus-related. Johor had the highest number with eight, followed by Perak with six. No deaths were reported in Perlis and the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya. The national death rate stands at 15 per million, with Perlis having the highest at 48 per million.

Malaysia reported 5,806 new Covid-19 cases, bringing the total to 2.64 million. The daily count is higher than the previous day's 5,439 cases, but hospitalisations have slightly decreased to 1,118. The overall hospital bed utilisation rate is 69.2%, with 36.8% being Covid-19 cases. Detailed state-wise case breakdown will be available on the CovidNow portal after midnight.

Hospital admissions for Covid-19 in Malaysia saw a slight decrease to 1,118 from 1,122 the previous day. Hospitals are operating at 69.2% capacity, with Covid-19 patients occupying 36.8% of beds. The Klang Valley reported 312 admissions, with Selangor having the highest at 258. Terengganu had the highest hospital bed utilization at 84%. There are 63,740 active Covid-19 cases, with 500 in ICUs and 258 on ventilators. As of noon yesterday, 5,430 new infections were reported, with Selangor recording the highest number of cases at 1,582.

The Ministry of Health Malaysia reported an increase in Covid-19 hospital admissions to 1,122 from 1,009 the previous day. The overall hospital bed utilization rate was at 68.7%, with Covid-19 bed utilization at 37.6%.

Malaysia reported 5,439 new Covid-19 cases, bringing the total to 2.63 million. Of these, 5,334 are in Categories 1 and 2, while 105 are in advanced stages. The country has 500 patients in intensive care, with 258 on ventilators. Additionally, 6,803 recoveries were reported, totaling 2.54 million recoveries.

The Independent Police Conduct Commission (IPCC) bill, which has faced delays, will be tabled for its second reading in the current Dewan Rakyat meeting, as confirmed by Deputy Home Minister Jonathan Yasin. The bill, initially tabled in August 2020, replaces the Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission (IPCMC) bill proposed by the Pakatan Harapan government. The IPCMC was recommended by a royal commission in 2005 to address police misconduct following several custodial deaths and abuse cases.

Bersatu's propaganda machinery is attacking Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob, aiming to reinstate Muhyiddin Yassin as prime minister, according to Najib Razak. Najib criticizes Bersatu ministers for contributing to rising costs and inflation, despite blaming Ismail. He defends Ismail and Barisan Nasional, arguing that price hikes began before Ismail's tenure and were exacerbated by policies from Muhyiddin's administration. Najib also questions the effectiveness of current ministers and highlights significant price increases in vegetables, while the Consumers’ Association of Penang's claims of price doubling are disputed by enforcement officers.

Malaysians should be compelled to vote or lose certain privileges, according to PAS lawmaker Ahmad Fadhli Shaari. He suggested that the government make voting mandatory, similar to the approach taken with Covid-19 vaccinations, which are not compulsory but mandated through restrictions on unvaccinated individuals. Fadhli also urged the Youth and Sports Ministry to include voting awareness in educational programs, expressing concern over low voter turnout and the potential failure of the Undi18 campaign.

Since 2017, a total of 1,778 contract medical officers have resigned from the Malaysian civil service, with an increasing trend each year, as reported by Deputy Health Minister (I) Dr Noor Azmi Ghazali.

Putrajaya has no plans to set a price ceiling for Covid-19 self-test kits, according to Deputy Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Rosol Wahid. The government hopes the market will determine the price, despite concerns about potential cost manipulation by suppliers. The current retail price is RM19.90 per kit, down from RM39.90 when first introduced, with some kits now selling for as low as RM4.90. Consumers are advised to ensure online sellers have a Companies Commission of Malaysia Biztrust certificate.

The Omicron variant, with up to 50 mutations, has not yet been detected in Malaysia but has caused global concern due to its potential high transmissibility. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified it as a variant of concern and warned of its high risk. Malaysia has postponed its transition to the endemic phase of Covid-19 in response. Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin emphasized the need for precautionary measures and more time to understand the variant's virulence. Vaccine developers like BioNTech, Pfizer, Sinovac, and Moderna are investigating the effectiveness of current vaccines against Omicron and preparing for potential updates. The variant has been detected in multiple countries, prompting travel restrictions, including in Malaysia.

Health experts in Malaysia assert that mixing and matching different types of vaccines for booster shots is safe and effective, addressing concerns over adverse effects. The Health Ministry recommends Pfizer and AstraZeneca as booster shots for all primary vaccines, with Sinovac also an option for those initially vaccinated with it. Experts emphasize the higher effectiveness of heterologous vaccination and the lack of severe effects reported. The article discusses the importance of transparency and communication from the government to combat misinformation and build public trust in booster shots.

Junior doctors in Malaysia are increasingly emigrating to countries like Australia, the UK, and the US due to poor career prospects and working conditions under the government contract system. Many cite long working hours, lack of specialization opportunities, and inadequate support from the government as reasons for leaving. The Hartal Doktor Kontrak group has been advocating for better conditions and permanent positions, warning of mass resignations if changes are not made. The government has announced some permanent positions, but many doctors feel it is insufficient.

Malaysia's New Economic Policy (NEP) is likely to remain due to its deep political implications, despite being seen as a distraction by some academics and economists. Jomo Kwame Sundaram suggests changing the conversation around the NEP rather than debating its existence. Sulochana Nair believes the NEP will persist in some form due to its significance to the Malay and Bumiputera communities. Lee Hwok Aun calls for a balanced approach that integrates needs, identity, and merit to support the disadvantaged, highlighting the need for more inclusive policies.

Johor emerged as the largest recipient of approved investments in Malaysia's manufacturing sector, securing RM100.9 billion out of a total RM450.5 billion approved between 2016 and June 2021. Foreign direct investment accounted for 61.9% of the total, while domestic direct investment made up 38.1%. The investments are expected to create 370,883 jobs. Other significant beneficiaries include Selangor, Kedah, Penang, and Sabah.

The Ministry of Health Malaysia reported 63 Covid-19 deaths, all backlog cases, bringing the total to 30,063. The deaths were distributed across several states, with Selangor recording the highest at 14. The national average of deaths per 1 million people over two weeks was 17, while Terengganu had the highest state average with 51 fatalities per 1 million.

Nazri Aziz urges the Malaysian government to expedite the enactment of an anti-party hopping law by forming a parliamentary select committee. He highlights the negative perception of politicians due to party hopping and suggests that each political party should have a representative in the committee. The call for this legislative action follows the recent Malacca state elections, which were triggered by the withdrawal of support from four government assemblymen.

Pakatan Harapan's plan to oppose the Prime Minister's Office budget failed as none of its MPs called for a vote, allowing the RM4.52 billion budget to pass with a simple voice vote. DAP's Lim Guan Eng had urged PH lawmakers to vote against the decision to grant former PM Najib Razak a valuable property, but no division vote was called. This marks the second consecutive year PH has refrained from voting against the budget after initially indicating they would. Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim's strategy to oppose the budget at the committee stage also did not materialize. The Dewan Rakyat continues to debate the Supply Bill 2022.

The Covid-19 death toll in Malaysia has surpassed 30,000, with 24 new deaths reported by the Ministry of Health, all of which were backlog cases. Kelantan recorded the highest number of new deaths, while Terengganu had the highest death rate per population over the past two weeks. The data highlights the ongoing impact of the pandemic across various states in Malaysia.

The hospital bed utilisation rate for Covid-19 in Malaysia increased by 3% in the week ending November 20, with non-ICU and ICU bed occupancy rising by 2% and 3% respectively. Low-risk quarantine centres saw a 3% increase in bed usage. Active Covid-19 cases rose by 6%, reversing a 10-week downtrend, particularly affecting those aged 40 and above. The Ministry of Health urges individuals to receive their Covid-19 booster shots to counteract waning vaccine efficacy.

The government should announce the next general election date six months in advance to allow adequate preparation, especially due to the Covid-19 pandemic, according to Tumpat MP Che Abdullah Mat Nawi. He highlighted the need for improvements in the election process and voter education, referencing the recent Malacca elections. Other lawmakers, including Johari Abdul and Teresa Kok, expressed concerns about the new SOPs affecting voter turnout. The Dewan Rakyat is currently debating the Prime Minister’s Department’s budget for the next year.

Hospital admissions for Covid-19 in Malaysia decreased to 1,081, with the Klang Valley reporting the highest daily admissions. The overall hospital bed utilization rate was 66.7%, with Terengganu having the highest bed capacity usage at 85.9%. There were 68,790 active Covid-19 cases, with 541 patients in ICU and 267 on respiratory support. Selangor recorded the highest number of new cases with 1,365 infections.

Malaysia reported 4,885 new Covid-19 cases, a slight increase from the previous day's 4,854 cases. The total number of cases now stands at 2,591,486. The infectivity rate has decreased to 1.0, and hospital admissions for Covid-19 infections were at 1,081, with a hospital bed utilization rate of 66.7%.

Following PKR's poor performance in the Malacca elections, social media users called for Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim to resign, drawing comparisons to Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjær's situation. The hashtag #Anwar trended on Twitter with criticisms and some defense of Anwar's leadership. Barisan Nasional won 21 of the 28 seats in the state elections, which were triggered by the withdrawal of support for the chief minister by four assemblymen.

Malaysia reported a decrease in Covid-19 hospital admissions to 1,187, with an overall hospital utilisation rate of 67.3%. The Klang Valley had the highest admissions, while Terengganu reported the highest hospital utilisation rate at 84.6%. ICU utilisation was at 65.2% and ventilator use at 38.8%. The country also reported 5,859 new Covid-19 cases, bringing active cases to 69,485, with the majority under home quarantine. Selangor had the highest number of new infections.

Kelantan faces a longstanding water crisis with murky tap water and frequent disruptions, forcing residents to rely on costly electric pumps and bore wells. Experts criticize the state government for not restructuring the water system earlier, which could have provided clean water to 90% of the population. The water infrastructure remains outdated and underfunded, with pollution and health risks from untreated groundwater. The federal and state governments are working on restructuring, but progress is slow due to financial constraints.

Developers of the Traveller app, which won the 2021 Apec digital prosperity award, are seeking government approval to automate immigration lanes at airports in Apec countries. The app, designed to facilitate travel during the Covid-19 pandemic, was developed by Faisal Ariff and his team. Despite previous setbacks, the team hopes to implement their technology to boost tourism and aid economic recovery. The app incorporates advanced features like facial recognition and QR codes, and has received support from various Malaysian technology and innovation bodies.

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has urged the public to remain vigilant against Covid-19 as the infectivity rate has risen to 1.04. MMA President Dr Koh Kar Chai emphasized the importance of vaccination, facial masks, and social distancing, noting the increase in daily positive cases and ICU bed occupancy in Terengganu. Health Ministry director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah reported 1,248 hospital admissions and 64,277 active cases as of November 12. Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin also reminded the public to take all necessary precautions.

Fahmi Fadzil urges Communications and Multimedia Minister Annuar Musa to end the monopoly of state-owned Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) in Malaysia's 5G roll-out, advocating for deeper industry engagement. Local mobile carriers have resisted using 5G due to pricing and transparency issues. Concerns are raised about DNB's sole operator status, potential delays, and financial liabilities. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission is criticized for discouraging telcos from bidding for their own spectrums. Calls are made for government transparency regarding interests in DNB and addressing long-term impacts on economic benefits.

Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders, including Fahmi Fadzil, claim that police and Health Ministry officials disrupted a presidential council meeting in Malacca, alleging SOP violations. Fahmi criticized the authorities for what he described as intimidation and unfair enforcement of Covid-19 SOPs, particularly in the context of the upcoming Malacca polls. He questioned the rationale behind the strict measures and called for a review and correction of the SOPs, urging the National Security Council to assess the situation on the ground.

Ramli Mohd Nor, MP for Cameron Highlands, has warned road contractors of potential reports to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission if road projects in his constituency are poorly constructed. He emphasized his commitment to personally inspect these projects and highlighted the concerns of the Orang Asli community regarding subpar road conditions. Ramli also called for civil servants to adhere strictly to policies and proposed the establishment of a new body to address the economic affairs of the Orang Asli, aiming to reduce bureaucracy and expedite decision-making. Additionally, he raised issues related to the education of Orang Asli children, citing various factors contributing to school dropouts and poor attendance.

Malayan tigers are at risk of extinction within five to ten years without immediate and drastic actions. Minister Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar from the Prime Minister’s Department emphasizes the urgency of conservation efforts, with fewer than 200 individuals remaining in Malaysia.

New Covid-19 cases in Malaysia continued to rise with 6,243 infections reported as of noon, bringing the national tally to 2.52 million. The daily case count has been increasing since Sunday, with detailed state breakdowns to be available on the CovidNow website after midnight.

Penang Deputy Chief Minister II P. Ramasamy calls for the Singapore government to balance firmness with compassion and mercy, particularly in the case of Nagaethran K. Dharmalingam, who faces the death penalty. The Singapore High Court postponed Nagaethran's appeal hearing after he tested positive for Covid-19. Ramasamy argues that capital punishment does not deter crime and highlights the socio-economic backgrounds of those on death row. He emphasizes the need for understanding and compassion, especially for individuals with intellectual disabilities like Nagaethran. Human rights lawyer M. Ravi is fighting to save Nagaethran, arguing his intellectual impairment should exempt him from execution.

The Hartal Doktor Kontrak group plans to proceed with a nationwide strike despite the Health Ministry's announcement to absorb over 4,000 contract healthcare workers into permanent positions. The group demands permanent postings for all contract medical officers and clarity on appointment criteria. Dissatisfaction stems from the limited number of permanent positions offered and the temporary contract extensions proposed in Budget 2022. The group previously staged a walkout in July and remains critical of the government's handling of the contract system.

The Court of Appeal in Singapore has extended the stay of execution for Nagaenthran K. Dharmalingam, a Malaysian on death row for drug trafficking, due to his Covid-19 diagnosis. The High Court had initially granted a stay of execution, which was extended by the Court of Appeal. Nagaenthran's lawyer, M. Ravi, filed the application for the stay. The appeal hearing, presided over by Justices Andrew Phang Boon Leong, Judith Prakash, and Kannan Ramesh, has been postponed with no new date set. The Malaysian government, including Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob, has sought leniency for Nagaenthran, who was convicted for carrying heroin into Singapore in 2009. Anti-death penalty campaigners argue that executing Nagaenthran, who has mental disabilities, violates international law.

Malaysia reported 4,543 new Covid-19 cases, a slight increase from the previous day's 4,343 cases, bringing the national caseload to 2.51 million. The daily toll had been decreasing since November 4 but saw a rise today. Detailed state-wise case breakdowns will be available on the CovidNow website after midnight.

More than 500,000 Covid-19 booster shots have been administered in Malaysia as of November 7, with 75.2% of the population fully vaccinated. Key indicators such as deaths and new cases have shown a downtrend, though ICU cases saw a slight increase. Hospital capacity saw minor changes, with a slight increase in bed occupancy. The Health Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely.

The Singapore High Court has stayed the execution of Malaysian Nagaenthran K. Dharmalingam, who has an intellectual disability. Lawyers for Liberty founder N. Surendran and human rights lawyer M. Ravi announced the stay pending an appeal. Nagaenthran was sentenced to death for smuggling heroin into Singapore in 2009. Despite the Malaysian government's exhausted clemency efforts, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob recently sought leniency from Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. Rights groups argue that executing Nagaenthran violates international law due to his mental disability.

All states and federal territories in Malaysia reported new Covid-19 cases, with Selangor recording the highest at 981. The total number of new cases was 4,343. Selangor also reported 240 new hospital admissions and a hospital bed utilization rate of 55.8%. Sarawak followed with 460 cases. The cumulative total of Covid-19 cases in Malaysia reached 2,506,309, with 64,623 active cases. Of these, 554 patients were in intensive care units, 272 required ventilator support, 50,933 were under home quarantine, 8,130 were in low-risk quarantine centers, and 5,006 were hospitalized.

Selangor reported 1,063 new Covid-19 cases, the highest among Malaysian states, contributing to the national total of 4,701 cases. The state also saw 248 new hospital admissions with a 65.6% hospital bed utilization rate. Sabah followed with 569 cases. Malaysia has reported a total of 2,501,966 cases since the pandemic began, with 65,505 active cases as of last night, including 544 in intensive care and 280 requiring ventilator support.

Nagaenthran Dharmalingam's lawyers are making a final attempt to halt his execution in Singapore by seeking a prohibitory order from the High Court. They argue that the death sentence violates Articles 9 and 12 of the Singapore Constitution. Nagaenthran, who was sentenced to death for smuggling heroin, is represented by human rights lawyer M. Ravi. His family, including his mother, has traveled to Singapore to see him for the last time.

Malaysia reported 4,343 new Covid-19 infections, continuing a downtrend in daily cases for the third consecutive day. The total number of reported cases now stands at 2.5 million. Detailed case breakdowns by state will be available on the CovidNow portal after midnight. The country had previously reported 5,713 new cases on November 4, with numbers decreasing to 4,922 on November 5 and 4,701 on November 6.

Covid-19 recoveries in Malaysia have surpassed new cases, with 5,190 recoveries and 4,343 new infections reported. The total number of recoveries is now 2,412,395, and the total infections have reached 2,506,309. Most new cases are asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic, with only 68 cases in advanced stages. Intensive care units are handling 554 active cases, with 272 requiring respiratory support. Additionally, seven new Covid-19 clusters have been identified, bringing the active cluster count to 325.

Malaysia detected two Covid-19 infections of the Delta Plus variant in students returning from the UK. The variant, known as AY.4.2, has been prevalent in the UK and is under investigation for its transmissibility. Current evidence suggests vaccines remain effective against it. The World Health Organization and other health agencies are monitoring the variant, with studies ongoing to assess its impact. Preliminary findings from Israel suggest it is more contagious but not more deadly or vaccine-resistant.