Aineena Hani

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Sexual Harassment

Viral Malaysia

Workplace Behavior

CUEPACS

The Public Services Commission of Malaysia (SPA) has recently issued a warning that using terms of endearment such as "sayang" or "dear" when addressing a colleague at work could be considered both harassment and a disciplinary offence for government departments and agencies.&nbsp;
This warning comes as part of a checklist of prohibited behaviours, which also includes "sexting" as a form of harassment. The SPA has outlined these guidelines under the section titled "Larangan-larangan serta perkara khusus" or "Prohibitions and Special Matters," specifically under Rule 4A on Sexual Harassment. Civil servants found guilty of these offences may face disciplinary action.
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/45b6a0baca2be72340f3af4085b7ec56a8c24f3456311ec77b785fbceb5732d1" alt="" width="447" height="227" />
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/fdb5d77ed5c474af915921852033d9b2e0c4e659c470a23180e71e95cc7993e5" alt="" width="501" height="440" />
Victims must specify the form/extensiveness of sexual harassment &ndash; if they were touched, caressed, kissed or hugged, in their complaint to the disciplinary board.
The PSC has identified various forms of misconduct and depending on their severity, civil servants found guilty of such offences may face a range of punishments, including a warning, fine, emolument disqualification, suspension, demotion, or dismissal.&nbsp;
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/96775a66e147a7f5fcd693b0ac2649ea174b179e11a63dfe33ab6ce44fba2e95" alt="" width="500" height="262" />
Additionally, extramarital affairs among civil servants will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary action. Those who wish to make a formal complaint about workplace sexual harassment must provide detailed information about the incident, including the location, time, and date of the occurrence, as well as the place of duty where the offence took place.&nbsp;
CUEPACS, the Congress of Union of Employees in the Public and Civil Services, has expressed its support for these measures.
According to its secretary-general Abdul Rahman Mohd Nordin, the move may have been prompted by more frequent complaints and that there is no place for such behaviour or language.
&ldquo;Regardless, only proper and polite words and behaviour should be used at the workplace.&rdquo;
&ldquo;We (Cuepacs) fully support this move,&rdquo; he asserted when contacted. He added that such incidents also put victims in an uncomfortable position, possibly resulting in their work performance getting worse.
&ldquo;To anyone who has been a victim, don&rsquo;t be afraid of speaking up and making a report,&rdquo; he then said.
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/f93b21719553d37c1e4315dd44ac38dba3d30746aa92d003c183771eb47c9e97" alt="" width="244" height="448" />
Before making a joke about sexual harassment with your colleagues, think twice about the potential consequences.&nbsp;
It is crucial to take sexual harassment in the workplace seriously because it is illegal in many countries and violates the victim's rights, resulting in severe physical, emotional, and mental health consequences. Additionally, it creates a toxic work environment that can adversely affect employee productivity and morale.&nbsp;
Allowing sexual harassment to persist in the workplace can make employees feel uncomfortable and unsafe, leading to high levels of absenteeism and turnover. Addressing this issue is not only the ethical thing to do but is also necessary for establishing a secure and productive work environment for all.
In case you or anyone you are acquainted with is at risk of or has encountered sexual abuse or assault, kindly contact these Malaysian organizations:&nbsp;
1. WOMEN'S AID ORGANISATION (WAO) Operating hours: 24-hour Contact: +603-30008858 SMS/WhatsApp: +6018-9888058 <a href="https://wao.org.my/getting-help-for-domestic-violence/">Website </a>| <a href="https://www.facebook.com/womens.aid.org/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/womensaidorg">Twitter</a>
2. ALL WOMEN'S ACTION SOCIETY (AWAM) Operating hours: Monday to Friday (9.30am - 5.30pm) Contact: +603-78770224 WhatsApp/Telegram: +6016-2284221 | +6016-2374221 Email: telenita@awam.org.my <a href="https://www.awam.org.my/">Website </a>| <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AWAMMalaysia/">Facebook </a>| <a href="https://twitter.com/WCCPenang">Twitter</a>
3. WOMEN'S CENTRE FOR CHANGE PENANG (WCC PENANG) Operating hours: Monday to Friday (9am - 5pm) Contact: +604-2280342 | +604-3988340 WhatsApp: +6011-31084001 | +6016-4180342 Email: wcc@wccpenang.org <a href="http://sarswws.org/">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sarawakwomen/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/WCCPenang">Twitter</a>
4. SARAWAK WOMEN FOR WOMEN SOCIETY (SWWS) Operating hours: Monday (7pm - 9pm),Tuesday to Thursday (9.30am - 11.30am), Saturday (2pm - 4pm) Contact: +6082-368853 SMS/WhatsApp: +6016-5822660 | +6013-8044285 Email: sarswws@gmail.com <a href="http://sarswws.org/">Website </a>| <a href="https://myc.my/admin/youth-issues/Facebook">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://myc.my/admin/youth-issues/Twitter">Twitter</a>
5. SABAH WOMEN'S ACTION-RESOURCE GROUP (SAWO) Operating hours: Monday to Friday (9am - 5pm) Contact: +6088-280200 | +6011-27908020 Email: sawo.women@yahoo.com <a href="http://www.sawo.org.my/where-to-find-us.html">Website </a>| <a href="https://myc.my/admin/youth-issues/Facebook">Facebook </a>| <a href="https://twitter.com/SawoSabah">Twitter</a>
6. PROTECT AND SAVE THE CHILDREN (PS THE CHILDREN) Operating hours: Monday to Friday (3pm - 12am) WhatsApp: +6016-7213065 Email: protect@psthechildren.org.my <a href="https://www.psthechildren.org.my/index.html">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/P.S.TheChildren/">Facebook </a>| <a href="https://twitter.com/PSChildren">Twitter</a>
7. INTERNET WATCH FOUNDATION (IWF) Anonymously and confidentially report child sexual abuse content and non-photographic child sexual abuse images with IWF's Reporting Portal.
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, The Star, SAYS &amp; various cross-references for context.
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It's about time this gets taken seriously not just in the workplace but other public places as well! 

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Malaysia's SPA Takes Firm Stance Against Inappropriate Behaviour In The Workplace 

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More than 2.2 million students across Malaysia can begin redeeming their RM100 MADANI Book Voucher from today, 1 July, as the government rolls out the 2026 edition of the initiative aimed at encouraging reading and improving access to educational materials.
The Ministry of Education (MOE) has allocated RM221.6 million for this year's programme, which will benefit 2,217,579 students nationwide through a fully digital voucher system.
Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh announced in the Dewan Rakyat that eligible students can redeem their e-vouchers from 1 July until 31 October, giving them four months to purchase approved reading materials.
More Than 2.2 Million Students To Benefit
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/78a77097240f57cc6c82be5862eb33dfed9b8daa46ef4caf97af7c053690c32b" />
The MADANI Book Voucher Programme 2026 covers a wide range of students under the Ministry of Education.
Eligible recipients include students in Remove (Transition) Classes, Form One to Form Six, vocational colleges, matriculation colleges and the Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia (IPGM).
The initiative continues the government's effort to ease the financial burden on students and families while promoting a stronger reading culture among young Malaysians.
According to Wong, the programme's allocation of RM221.6 million will ensure every eligible student receives a RM100 digital voucher that can only be used to purchase books.
How To Redeem The Voucher
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3914d686c5a39a85a94b678796cf9ab74b41325946660b3f6b6774ece4e1fa70" />
Unlike previous physical vouchers, the MADANI Book Voucher is now issued entirely in digital form to improve accountability and convenience.
School students can redeem and spend their vouchers through the <a href="https://mall.bookcapital.com.my/">BookCapital</a> platform, which currently features 1,238 registered booksellers offering a wide range of titles.
Meanwhile, students at public universities can redeem their vouchers through the <a href="https://mysiswaplace.my/welcome">MySiswaPlace</a> portal.
The fully digital system allows students from across the country, including those living in rural and remote areas, to purchase books online and have them delivered directly to their homes.
New Requirement Introduced This Year
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a37e3e98c8ab81993a9f19a2ad523d95c04b3cc23c14d6b84e0ee50f6f276d2a" />
One of the biggest updates to the 2026 programme is the introduction of the MADANI Special Title Focus.
Under the new requirement, every voucher recipient must purchase at least one book from a specially curated category before using the remainder of the voucher balance.
The selected collection includes literary classics and works of literature, as well as books covering history, philosophy, economics, geopolitics and human capital development.
Students are also encouraged to explore titles related to future-focused subjects, including artificial intelligence (AI), information technology, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), and digitalisation.
The ministry said the initiative is intended to broaden students' knowledge beyond their school curriculum while encouraging interest in emerging technologies and strategically important fields.
Digital System Introduced To Improve Transparency
The Ministry of Education first switched to a fully digital voucher system in 2024 following complaints that some recipients had sold their physical vouchers at discounted prices instead of using them to purchase books.
Wong previously explained that moving the programme online has significantly improved transparency while ensuring government allocations are used for their intended purpose.
He said the digital platform enables the ministry to monitor voucher usage more effectively, helping eliminate misuse and preventing leakages.
The online purchasing system has also made it easier for students nationwide to access reading materials regardless of where they live.
Programme Shows Positive Results
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/22443f9b5eaa2d5e6305bad05cc2c13c6124940c0b6dbae2891833d1723f3734" />
Since its introduction, the MADANI Book Voucher Programme has received encouraging feedback from students.
According to an impact study conducted by the Institut Darul Ehsan, 97.5% of respondents agreed that the vouchers had greatly benefited students, particularly those from lower-income households.
Meanwhile, 92.2% said the vouchers helped them prepare more effectively for examinations by giving them access to additional learning materials.
The ministry also reported that the programme achieved a 100% redemption rate in 2024, demonstrating the success of its digital implementation.
Wong described the programme as having delivered 100% redemption, 100% transparency and zero leakages, while ensuring students across both urban and rural communities enjoy equal opportunities to obtain quality reading materials.
Supporting Reading And Lifelong Learning
The MADANI Book Voucher Programme forms part of the government's broader efforts to encourage reading habits among Malaysian students while reducing the cost of purchasing educational resources.
By combining a fully digital redemption system with a wider selection of books and a stronger emphasis on literature, history and future technologies, the ministry hopes the programme will not only support students' academic performance but also cultivate lifelong learning and a deeper appreciation for knowledge.
Eligible students have until 31 October to redeem and utilise their RM100 e-vouchers through the designated online platforms.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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More than 2.2 million students are eligible for the digital book vouchers, which can be redeemed until 31 October.

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RM100 MADANI Book Voucher Redemption Officially Opens For Eligible Students

Malaysians can now apply for the country's new-generation international passport, which introduces an optional 10-year validity period alongside a host of upgraded security features designed to strengthen protection against forgery and identity fraud.
The new passport officially became available on 1 July, following its launch by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The upgraded travel document is being introduced in stages across the country, giving eligible Malaysians aged 18 and above the option of choosing either a five-year or 10-year passport depending on their travel needs.
According to the Home Ministry, the initiative is aimed at making passport renewals more convenient while reinforcing Malaysia's reputation as one of the world's most trusted travel documents.
Two Validity Options For Travellers
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/437cec7ebfa7e252b1591da8bee57b92b838c7ef270faecd54f6535c616005a0" />
For the first time, Malaysians can choose between a standard five-year passport or a new 10-year validity period.
The five-year passport continues to cost RM200, while the 10-year passport is priced at RM350.
Although the longer-validity passport costs RM150 more upfront, it offers better long-term value. Applicants who choose the 10-year option save RM50 compared with renewing a five-year passport twice over the same period.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the longer validity period is intended to reduce the frequency of renewals while offering greater convenience, particularly for those who travel regularly for work, business, education or family commitments.
The ministry also hopes the initiative will simplify passport applications and reduce administrative workload over time.
Nationwide Rollout Begins In Phases
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7fc097c426ad2f17f8cb096a2916189484ecc02963df9fd6b90b67845573829b" />
While applications are now open, the new passport is not being introduced at every Immigration office simultaneously.
The Immigration Department is implementing the rollout in phases across 71 passport offices nationwide, with the first phase beginning this month at 14 passport issuing offices, including state Immigration offices and selected Urban Transformation Centres (UTCs).
According to Immigration director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban, the nationwide rollout is expected to be completed in seven phases by August, ensuring a smooth operational transition as offices gradually begin issuing the redesigned passport.
He added that new-generation passport printing machines are capable of producing up to 60 passports per hour, supporting the current average monthly demand of around 160,000 passports, although Malaysia often issues between 180,000 and 220,000 passports each month.
Nearly Double The Security Features
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/cb6e29e22a2591cad7ad76c5e100aecfe7309f748b3a879c830b34bdacfcc6c9" />
One of the biggest upgrades is the passport's significantly improved security.
The new Malaysian passport incorporates 94 security features, almost double the 49 features found in the current version.
The enhancements combine visible, hidden and forensic security technologies designed to make the passport substantially more resistant to forgery, tampering and unauthorised alterations.
Among the new security measures are:
<ul>
<li>Polycarbonate biodata page</li>
<li>Integrated biometric chip</li>
<li>Laser-engraved personal information</li>
<li>Laser-punched serial numbers</li>
<li>Transparent security window</li>
<li>Complex ultraviolet (UV) security printing</li>
<li>High-resolution hidden patterns</li>
<li>Guilloche patterns</li>
<li>Latent images</li>
<li>Rainbow printing</li>
<li>Line width modulation</li>
<li>Dynamic holograms</li>
<li>Microtext and other anti-counterfeiting technologies</li>
</ul>
The upgraded passport also complies with standards established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), ensuring continued international recognition and compatibility with border control systems worldwide.
Malaysia was among the first countries to introduce electronic passports in 1998, and officials say the latest redesign continues that legacy by incorporating more advanced security technologies.
New Design Reflects Malaysia's Identity
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b7a596f5026991a371e6f3c42ffa10dffdc9a9e18a1c1afe34d38b85404e80e1" />
Beyond its security improvements, the passport also features updated artwork celebrating Malaysia's history, cultural heritage and constitutional monarchy.
One of the most noticeable design changes is the introduction of the Rajah Brooke's Birdwing butterfly as the passport's new signature icon.
The butterfly replaces the hibiscus featured on the previous design and was selected to symbolise Malaysia's rich biodiversity and natural heritage.
The refreshed design aims to better reflect the country's identity while modernising one of its most important official documents.
No Need To Replace Existing Passports Immediately
Despite the introduction of the new passport, authorities have stressed that Malaysians should not rush to replace passports that remain valid.
Existing passports can continue to be used until they are close to expiry, with the Home Ministry recommending renewal only when there are six months or less remaining before the passport expires.
Zakaria reiterated that passport holders whose documents remain valid can continue using them without concern, noting that replacement is only necessary when a passport expires or when applying for a new travel document.
Strengthening Malaysia's International Standing
Officials say the upgraded passport represents more than just a longer validity period.
The combination of enhanced security features, improved production technology and greater convenience is intended to ensure Malaysia's passport remains secure, reliable and aligned with international best practices.
The government also hopes the introduction of the optional 10-year passport will reduce renewal frequency for frequent travellers while strengthening confidence in Malaysian travel documents globally.
With applications now open, eligible Malaysians can begin choosing the passport validity period that best suits their travel requirements as the nationwide rollout continues over the coming weeks.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Eligible Malaysians can now choose between a 5 or 10-year passport as the country rolls out its upgraded travel document.

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Malaysia’s New 10-Year Passport Now Available With Enhanced Security Features

Anthropic has announced that it will restore global access to its most advanced artificial intelligence (AI) models after the United States government lifted export controls that had temporarily halted their release.
The decision marks a significant reversal just weeks after Washington ordered the AI company to suspend access to its Claude Fable 5 and Claude Mythos 5 models over national security concerns. Anthropic confirmed that users would begin regaining access from Wednesday, following notification from the US Department of Commerce that the restrictions had been withdrawn.
The move follows weeks of discussions between the company and US officials over the potential risks posed by the powerful AI systems.
Restrictions Lifted After Security Review
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We&rsquo;ve received notice that the Department of Commerce has lifted export controls on Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5. We'll begin restoring access tomorrow, and will share an update soon. We&rsquo;re grateful to our users for their patience, and to everyone who worked with us on&hellip;
&mdash; Anthropic (@AnthropicAI) <a href="https://x.com/AnthropicAI/status/2072106151890809341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Anthropic revealed the update in a post on X, saying it had received official notice that export controls on both Claude Fable 5 and Claude Mythos 5 had been lifted.
The company thanked users for their patience during the suspension and said it would begin restoring access worldwide immediately.
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick also confirmed that the government had worked closely with Anthropic over the past two weeks to review the models and strengthen their safety measures.
According to reports, the Department of Commerce concluded that Anthropic had taken sufficient steps, in close coordination with the US government, to address the risks associated with both AI models. As a result, the Trump administration withdrew its earlier export restrictions.
Lutnick added that Anthropic had agreed to proactively detect and address future security risks, cooperate with the government on safety protocols for upcoming AI releases and report any malicious activity involving its models.
Why The Models Were Suspended
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c21cd3b7151865774fd62e5506f6c0c297d7a6a07684dbdafef7eb5af4bc9ec8" />
The restrictions were first introduced on 12 June after US authorities raised concerns that the models' safeguards could potentially be bypassed, allowing bad actors to misuse the technology.
Anthropic was instructed to suspend access for all foreign nationals, including its own non-US employees, regardless of whether they were located inside or outside the United States.
The company later explained that officials were concerned about a possible "jailbreak" technique that could circumvent some of Fable 5's safety protections.
While Anthropic acknowledged the government's concerns, it maintained that the issue involved a limited exploit and argued that it did not justify withdrawing a commercial model that had already been released to millions of users.
The restrictions forced the company to abruptly disable both Fable 5 and Mythos 5 shortly after launch.
Understanding Fable 5 And Mythos 5
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6d8e54ee5c1c795837ddf53636dc0a5c1f7f814cf48565e798456177ca585a71" />
Claude Fable 5 and Claude Mythos 5 represent Anthropic's most advanced AI systems to date.
Fable 5 is designed as the consumer-facing version of the technology, offering sophisticated reasoning capabilities and the ability to complete complex tasks with minimal human input.
Meanwhile, Mythos 5 is aimed at enterprise users and cybersecurity professionals. The model is capable of identifying weaknesses in computer systems, analysing software code and demonstrating how vulnerabilities could potentially be exploited.
Anthropic originally limited Mythos 5's release to a select group of organisations because of its exceptionally powerful cybersecurity capabilities.
The company has previously described the model as both an industry-leading security tool and one that could become dangerous if misused by cybercriminals.
Negotiations Behind The Scenes
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/703ed7ff1c14dd942a629fc5756b19910078aea80b9932deb4e1dbaf72729936" />
Following the export control order, Anthropic entered discussions with officials in Washington in an effort to resolve the dispute.
Reports suggest company executives travelled to the US capital to negotiate directly with the White House and the Department of Commerce over the government's concerns.
Last week, the administration partially eased the restrictions by allowing Mythos 5 to be released to a limited number of trusted American organisations and federal agencies.
The latest decision now removes the broader export controls altogether, allowing Anthropic to resume its planned global rollout.
The episode highlights the increasingly close relationship between AI developers and governments as regulators seek greater oversight of rapidly advancing frontier AI models.
AI Regulation Becoming A National Security Issue
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/84d9fc6acf9804219f1a654060397e92269ca6e05b191cfb04520d55286e1396" />
The suspension forms part of a broader effort by the US government to tighten oversight of cutting-edge AI systems.
Earlier this year, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to establish a voluntary framework that allows AI companies to work alongside the government before releasing their most advanced models.
The initiative aims to ensure that frontier AI systems undergo safety assessments before becoming widely available, particularly where they could pose cybersecurity or national security risks.
White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles recently praised technology companies that have cooperated with the administration, highlighting ongoing work around advanced AI model testing and security safeguards.
CIA Director John Ratcliffe also compared the capabilities of next-generation AI systems to "digital nuclear weapons", arguing that governments must carefully manage their release because of their potential strategic impact.
Officials have expressed concerns that highly capable AI models could be exploited by hostile states, including China and Russia, or used to develop increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.
Industry Raises Concerns Over Government Oversight
While many AI developers support stronger safety testing, some have questioned the government's growing influence over who can access advanced models.
OpenAI recently confirmed that it also delayed the wider release of its GPT-5.6 model at the request of the US government, initially limiting access to a small group of approved partners.
OpenAI Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman said he supports comprehensive safety testing but questioned whether governments should determine which organisations receive access first.
The company has similarly argued that long-term government approval processes could slow innovation and prevent researchers, businesses and cybersecurity professionals from using important new tools.
For Anthropic, however, the lifting of the export controls brings an end to weeks of uncertainty and allows the company to continue deploying what it considers some of the world's most capable AI systems while remaining under increased scrutiny from US regulators.
The incident also underscores how advanced AI development is increasingly being viewed through the lens of national security, with governments seeking to balance technological progress against the potential risks posed by increasingly powerful models.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Anthropic will restore access to its most advanced AI models after US authorities withdrew export controls introduced over security concerns.

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US Lifts Restrictions On Anthropic’s Advanced AI Models, Allowing Global Rollout To Resume

The Federal Court has postponed its highly anticipated decision on the prosecution's final appeal against Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman's acquittal in the Armada funds case after one of the judges on the panel went on medical leave.
The verdict, originally scheduled to be delivered on Tuesday morning, will now be announced on 13 July, extending the wait for the former Youth and Sports Minister to learn whether his acquittal will stand or whether his earlier conviction will be reinstated.
The delay came after Federal Court judge Datuk Che Mohd Ruzima Ghazali was unable to attend proceedings due to illness.
Court Forced To Postpone Decision
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/95783311839f10f6e8e978c90f80722e0c55aa302d1e19b9f8659c693f5ecc77" />
The three-member Federal Court bench comprises Court of Appeal President Datuk Seri Abu Bakar Jais, Datuk Che Mohd Ruzima Ghazali and Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah.
When proceedings began at around 9.30am, Abu Bakar addressed those present in court and explained that Justice Ruzima had been placed on medical leave for two days after falling ill.
He said both he and Justice Collin were prepared to deliver the judgment, but it would not be appropriate for the court to issue its decision without the full panel present.
"We were ready with the decision, but unfortunately this unexpected situation has occurred," Abu Bakar told the courtroom.
He added that although the judgment had already been finalised, the court would instead deliver it on 13 July, subject to the availability of all parties.
Abu Bakar also explained that the court had considered informing the parties earlier about the postponement, but the development occurred late the previous day. Instead, he chose to appear personally in court to explain the situation.
Family And Bella Astillah Present In Court
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/274f97f5c293947654558a889f499d8a95a39b7f5387ae6fb27563c3971b53aa" />
Syed Saddiq arrived at the Palace of Justice at approximately 8.50am, accompanied by his fianc&eacute;e, singer and actress Bella Astillah, as well as his mother, Sharifah Mahani Syed Abdul Aziz.
Several family members and close friends were also present to offer moral support ahead of what was expected to be one of the most significant moments in the 33-year-old politician's legal battle.
Following the postponement, Syed Saddiq's father, Syed Abdul Rahman Syed Abdullah Al-Sagoff, described the situation as another test for the family.
He urged his son to remain patient, saying they accepted the delay with an open heart.
"There is nothing much to say. Just remember that all of this is a test. We have to be patient," he told reporters outside the courthouse.
Meanwhile, Syed Saddiq's mother chose not to comment on the postponement.
Appeal Centres On Four Criminal Charges
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/968668fb82da453445ea2a6bc0695810d067791d9c2c292ae723d6213eef13b7" />
The Federal Court is hearing the Attorney General's Chambers' appeal against the Court of Appeal's decision to acquit Syed Saddiq of four charges involving criminal breach of trust, dishonest misappropriation of property and money laundering linked to funds belonging to Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia's youth wing, Armada.
The charges include allegedly abetting criminal breach of trust involving RM1 million, dishonestly misappropriating RM120,000 from Armada Bumi Bersatu Enterprise's Maybank Islamic account, and two counts of money laundering involving RM50,000 each, which were allegedly transferred into his Amanah Saham Bumiputera account.
The RM120,000 charge alleges that Syed Saddiq instructed Armada assistant treasurer Rafiq Hakim Razali to dispose of the funds between 8 and 21 April 2018.
From Conviction To Acquittal
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3982a0b9b0749b5cb3ee828c0cab41a5d5c7b31d73676b585050ec2a302babad" />
The case has seen several major developments over the past few years.
On 9 November 2023, the High Court found Syed Saddiq guilty on all four charges and sentenced him to seven years' imprisonment, two strokes of the cane and a RM10 million fine.
However, on 25 June 2025, the Court of Appeal unanimously overturned both the conviction and sentence, acquitting and discharging the Muar MP.
In its judgment, the appellate court found that the prosecution had failed to establish the necessary elements of the offences and ruled that giving instructions to withdraw funds could not automatically be treated as disposing of assets in the manner alleged by the prosecution.
Unhappy with that decision, the Attorney General's Chambers subsequently appealed to the Federal Court, making this the final stage of the legal proceedings.
The judgment on 13 July will determine whether the Court of Appeal's acquittal remains in force or whether the High Court's conviction and sentence will be reinstated.
Teo Nie Ching's Remark Draws Attention In Parliament
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While the court proceedings were postponed, Syed Saddiq returned to Parliament later the same day, where he questioned the Communications Ministry about the increasing sophistication of online scams powered by artificial intelligence.
During the session, Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching responded to his question by highlighting government efforts to tackle AI-generated scams and deepfake content.
Before concluding her reply, she unexpectedly wished Syed Saddiq well ahead of his upcoming court decision.
"It is good to see you here. I wish you all the best on 13 July," she said, prompting reactions from fellow Members of Parliament.
Earlier in her response, Teo revealed that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) had removed more than 11,600 pieces of false or deepfake content following almost 12,500 complaints received since 2024.
She also noted that reports involving AI-generated deepfakes have risen sharply, increasing from 917 complaints in 2024 to 3,612 in 2025, with a further 7,967 complaints recorded as of 15 June this year.
To address the growing misuse of artificial intelligence, she said licensed social media platforms are now required under the Online Safety Act 2025 and the Risk Mitigation Code to implement stronger safeguards against harmful AI-generated content.
All Eyes Now On 13 July
With the judgment already prepared but temporarily withheld due to unforeseen circumstances, attention will now turn to 13 July, when the Federal Court is expected to deliver its long-awaited decision.
The outcome will not only determine the conclusion of Syed Saddiq's lengthy legal battle but could also have significant implications for his political future, as the prosecution seeks to reinstate the High Court's original conviction while the defence hopes to preserve the Court of Appeal's acquittal.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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The highly anticipated ruling has been pushed back, extending the wait for all parties involved.

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Federal Court Postpones Decision On Syed Saddiq’s Final Appeal To July 13 After Judge Falls Ill

WhatsApp is preparing to introduce one of its biggest privacy updates to date, allowing users to communicate without revealing their personal phone numbers.
The Meta-owned messaging platform has confirmed that users will soon be able to create unique usernames, offering a new identity that can be shared instead of a mobile number. The long-awaited feature is designed to strengthen privacy, particularly when interacting with strangers, joining large group chats or contacting businesses for the first time.
Although the full feature will be introduced gradually over the coming months, WhatsApp has already begun allowing users in eligible regions to reserve their preferred usernames ahead of the wider rollout.
A Major Privacy Upgrade For WhatsApp
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/40b8d3f9848ec14c1d488508f890eef54b3bbb8d71f907ab7c0452ef7e33addc" />
Since its launch, WhatsApp has relied entirely on phone numbers as each user's unique identity. While this has made it easy to connect with people already saved in a contact list, it has also meant users had little choice but to reveal their personal number whenever they joined public communities, networked at events or communicated with someone new.
The upcoming username system aims to change that.
Once enabled, users will be able to share their chosen username instead of their phone number when connecting with others. As a result, people messaging them for the first time will only see their username rather than their personal mobile number.
The same protection will also apply when users are added to large group chats or contact businesses, reducing the amount of personal information automatically shared with strangers.
For many users, the update introduces an extra layer of security that has long been available on competing messaging platforms.
Better Protection Without Sacrificing Convenience
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According to Meta, usernames have been designed with privacy as the priority.
Unlike traditional social media platforms, WhatsApp will not include a public username directory, searchable database or suggested user listings. This means someone must already know a person's exact username before they can initiate a conversation.
The company also plans to introduce an optional username key, giving users even greater control over who is able to message them.
This makes the feature particularly useful for those who frequently interact with people outside their personal contacts, including users participating in community groups, buying or selling items online, networking at public events, or operating small businesses and creator accounts.
Business accounts will also benefit from the update, as customers who have enabled usernames will no longer need to expose their personal phone numbers when making initial contact.
Reserving A Username Before The Rollout
&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/b5824b7b9ca8a06ce6096bf1b995490829b6a35a026bceaae3c7941459207ae2" />
While the feature has yet to become available to everyone, WhatsApp has started allowing users to reserve their usernames before the global launch.
To check whether the option is available, users simply need to update WhatsApp to the latest version, then navigate to Settings &gt; Account &gt; Username.
As with most online platforms, every username must be unique. If a preferred name has already been claimed, users will need to choose another, although WhatsApp can suggest available alternatives.
Meta is also making it easier for creators, organisations and businesses to maintain a consistent online identity by allowing them to claim the same usernames they already use on Facebook or Instagram, provided they are available.
With WhatsApp now serving more than three billion users worldwide, competition for popular usernames is expected to be significant, making early reservations particularly worthwhile.
A Feature Years In The Making
The introduction of usernames has been anticipated for several years.
Reports of the feature first surfaced through beta versions of WhatsApp, where developers were spotted testing username functionality long before its official announcement. After an extended period of development, Meta has now confirmed that the rollout is finally approaching.
The addition also brings WhatsApp closer to rival messaging platforms such as Telegram and WeChat, both of which have supported usernames for years as a way for users to connect without exchanging phone numbers.
Global Rollout To Happen Gradually
Meta has confirmed that username reservations and the wider feature will be rolled out gradually around the world over the coming months rather than becoming available everywhere at once.
Users will receive an in-app notification once the feature becomes available in their respective countries.
As WhatsApp continues expanding its privacy features, the introduction of usernames represents one of the platform's most significant changes in recent years. By reducing reliance on phone numbers as a user's primary identity, the update offers a more secure and privacy-conscious way for billions of people to connect while keeping their personal information protected.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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WhatsApp is rolling out usernames worldwide, giving users a new way to connect while keeping their personal phone numbers private.

Malaysia's SPA Takes Firm Stance Against Inappropriate Behaviour In The Workplace

It's about time this gets taken seriously not just in the workplace but other public places as well!

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