Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

protection

healthcare

finance

insurance

price hike

premium

Lim Guan Eng

public interest

Former Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng has raised concerns over the proposed 40-70% hike in medical insurance premiums for 2025. According to Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), the projected 15% rise in medical costs is significantly lower than the proposed premium hikes. In his Facebook post, Guan Eng questioned why insurers are advocating such a substantial increase when global medical cost increases stand at just 10%, and the rise in the Asia-Pacific region is 11.1%.
Guan Eng argued that this excessive increase could place a heavy financial burden on Malaysians, many of whom are already grappling with the rising cost of living. He emphasized that these premium hikes, if approved, would disproportionately affect ordinary citizens, while life insurance companies continue to enjoy robust profits.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Flimguaneng.malaysia%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0rBiYQn5zAGWRdwSUTmvrYQudH4sEdnxsakdXTgTMakfBALdncR946SxS7LNGKZDUl&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" width="500" height="730" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/3965/brace-yourselves-medical-insurance-premiums-expected-to-surge-by-40-70percent-in-2025">Brace Yourselves: Medical Insurance Premiums Expected To Surge By 40-70% In 2025!</a> 
BNM&rsquo;s Accountability in Protecting the Public
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b834137a51002d49446468f259ab2e22c121a55d52b427b120913161a4496196" />
Guan Eng criticized BNM and the Health Ministry (KKM) for their failure to protect the interests of 31 million Malaysians, emphasizing that the focus should be on safeguarding public health rather than the profits of life insurance and takaful companies. He posed three critical questions of public accountability:
<ul>
<li>Why are medical insurance premiums increasing by 40-70% when the rise in medical costs is only 15%?</li>
<li>Why have medical costs surged faster in Malaysia than in neighbouring countries and globally?</li>
<li>Why should the public bear the full financial burden of these hikes?</li>
</ul>
Guan Eng highlighted that BNM had acknowledged the increased medical costs of 15% for 2025, while global and regional averages were significantly lower. However, life insurance companies are proposing hikes far above these figures, creating a disconnect between medical cost inflation and premium increases.
Irresponsible Cost Management and Regulatory Failures 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7e211b16721f088c093f414959d027018290c78ef4ee8f5b4b0c8ee70a3f6e18" />
Guan Eng pointed to glaring examples of inflated medical expenses. For instance, a dengue patient using a guarantee letter (GL) incurs RM4,978, four times higher than the RM1,288 charged to those who pay upfront. Similarly, pneumonia patients using GL face RM6,859 in costs, compared to RM2,654 paid by those who opt to pay first. Guan Eng questioned why these pricing disparities continue to exist, despite BNM&rsquo;s role in regulating the sector.
He further highlighted BNM&rsquo;s regulatory shortcomings, arguing that insurers and private hospitals continue to take advantage of these GL arrangements, resulting in widespread abuse. This mismanagement of medical costs contributes to higher premiums, forcing the public to shoulder the financial burden.
Insurers&rsquo; Growing Profits vs Workers&rsquo; Stagnant Salaries
Guan Eng also pointed out the stark contrast between the rising premiums and stagnant wage growth. He noted that life insurance and family takaful funds reported profits of RM8.4 billion in the first half of 2024, more than double the RM3.2 billion reported in the same period of 2023. This surge in profits has not been accompanied by corresponding wage increases for the average Malaysian worker.
Guan Eng argued that there is no moral justification for insurers to demand premium hikes of 40-70% when workers&rsquo; incomes have remained relatively stagnant. He emphasized that without significant wage growth, Malaysians should not be expected to bear such steep premium increases, particularly when insurers are already enjoying substantial profits.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Flimguaneng.malaysia%2Fvideos%2F4017938355197228%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=357&amp;t=0" width="357" height="476" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>&nbsp;
BNM Must Uphold Fair Premium Pricing
In his call to action, Guan Eng urged BNM to demonstrate greater social empathy, public responsibility, and ethical governance by rejecting these excessive premium hikes. He emphasized that any adjustments to medical insurance premiums should be gradual, sustainable, and reflective of actual medical cost increases, not imposed in large and disproportionate jumps.
Guan Eng also warned that these premium hikes could contribute to higher inflation, further exacerbating the financial burden on Malaysian households. He emphasized that BNM&rsquo;s responsibility goes beyond protecting the interests of insurers&mdash;it must prioritize the well-being of the public.
Ultimately, Guan Eng stressed that Malaysians deserve a healthcare system where premium adjustments are fair, justifiable, and not solely driven by the profit motives of insurers.
In other developments, EPF has established the benchmark for basic retirement savings, suggesting that Malaysians will require at least RM1.3 million to afford a comfortable retirement. However, this raises significant concerns about its feasibility for many Malaysians, particularly amid rising living costs and stagnant wages.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4004/epf-sets-benchmark-at-rm390k-for-basic-retirement-saving-needs-rm13-million-to-live-the-life-of-luxury">EPF Sets Benchmark At RM390K For Basic Retirement Saving; Needs RM1.3 Million To Live The Life Of Luxury</a>
Additionally, rising insurance costs further burden individuals, especially as premiums increase with age. This raises the question for many Malaysians whether continuing their policies is a practical choice, given the steep rise in prices.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a> and <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a> for more updates.

BNM should prioritise helping citizens, not pushing us into financial hardship.

2ccc0ca53d8f9578077ae104796188cae45de9d0986eecbda92ec6a6cea6bdcd

Lim Guan Eng Questions Premium Hikes Amidst Rising Medical Costs And Profitable Insurers

d9d56c8e5c29847e2917983575418651c94c72608ef9e914a6542c4a698d7349

Scentify

e891e864574960ae21e3a00f338f06377dd53af0baffdac1786ad4ed7dad7721

Oatside

c6e5412e94f35f5e45d8d645b31f06c7e7692356c43e40dffb5b8af1b8e8c3a9

Rohto

4a748b89ff3ed827c2f616757f44645a494284ce781ca71dce7bf93343f62cd4

Malaysia&rsquo;s top men&rsquo;s singles shuttler, Lee Zii Jia, has stirred significant public attention following a series of cryptic black-and-white illustrations he shared on Instagram, leading to widespread speculation about his emotional and mental wellbeing. However, the National Sports Council (NSC) has since issued a statement urging the public not to read too much into the posts, assuring fans that the 27-year-old athlete is in good health and simply exploring his artistic side.
Cryptic Instagram Posts Raise Eyebrows Among Fans 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1f311ab98a57e8bb6368a1285f9539c5a7f0498c3507e1ff059f03aff101389d" />
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4421/lee-zii-jias-troubling-instagram-post-sparks-widespread-concern-over-athlete-mental-health">Lee Zii Jia&rsquo;s Troubling Instagram Post Sparks Widespread Concern Over Athlete Mental Health</a>
Last week, Lee uploaded several eerie, monochrome images to his personal Instagram account. The illustrations included dark and symbolic visuals such as a face appearing to burn, a bloodied body slumped on a sofa, and mysterious figures in shadowy settings. Perhaps most notably, he changed his profile picture to a fully black image, without offering any accompanying captions or explanations.
The striking visuals, combined with the absence of context, quickly sparked concern across social media. The posts have garnered more than 135,000 likes and over 3,600 comments, many of them from worried fans asking, &ldquo;Are you alright, Zii Jia?&rdquo; Some interpreted the artwork as a subtle cry for help, pointing to the common use of art as a medium for emotional expression.
NSC and Sports Ministry Reassure the Public
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/26080c78c2d27a74d47f4e8916696cfecb5db5d0f4002487bd53cab9a799a780" />
In response to the growing speculation, NSC Director-General Jefri Ngadirin confirmed that the organisation had contacted Team LZJ, Lee&rsquo;s management, to inquire about the reasoning behind the posts. The matter was also escalated to the Youth and Sports Minister, Hannah Yeoh, who joined in seeking clarification.
&ldquo;His team told us there&rsquo;s nothing to worry about,&rdquo; Jeffri said. &ldquo;It might just be that Zii Jia has a genuine personal interest in that particular art style and wanted to share it with his followers.&rdquo;
Jeffri also clarified that Lee&rsquo;s teammates and close friends had not noticed any behavioural changes or signs of psychological distress. While acknowledging the visual intensity of the artwork, he stressed that it may simply reflect the way younger generations express themselves creatively on digital platforms.
&ldquo;This could just be a form of artistic self-expression,&rdquo; Jeffri added. &ldquo;Let him express himself in the way he chooses.&rdquo;
Nonetheless, Jeffri emphasised that both the NSC and the National Sports Institute (ISN) remain on standby to offer any form of support&mdash;whether physical, emotional, or mental&mdash;should it be needed by Lee or his team in future.
Mental Health Professionals Urge Calm and Understanding
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8cbc44af56a202e4f1a7cf50168fcb43003a1242e69f010dab3f790ea96df8db" />
Amid the public discussion, mental health experts have weighed in to discourage the tendency to jump to conclusions based solely on social media content.
Dr Eugene Koh, a psychiatrist from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), explained that people often explore complex emotions through creative outlets such as drawing, writing, or even watching intense films. He noted that just because the imagery is dark or dramatic does not necessarily indicate a mental health issue.
&ldquo;It could mean anything,&rdquo; Dr Koh said during an interview with Nadi Arena. &ldquo;I have acquaintances who release their emotions through art or by immersing themselves in horror films. It&rsquo;s just a way of processing feelings. Not everything needs to be pathologised.&rdquo;
His sentiments were echoed by Dr Rebecca Wong, a clinical psychologist who has followed Lee&rsquo;s sporting journey closely, including his recent bronze medal performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
&ldquo;Only Zii Jia truly understands what the images mean and what they represent for him,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;Every athlete experiences stress to varying degrees. If the pressure becomes too overwhelming, it&rsquo;s important to seek help early.&rdquo;
Both experts agreed that while vigilance is essential, people should refrain from diagnosing someone based on limited online clues. Instead, they called for a more empathetic understanding of how young athletes navigate fame, expectations, and personal expression.
Symbolism Misunderstood or Misread?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/856dc51146c37833405b063b06180b7f1cad4b74eda8a73f4a158f1f15f0dc1a" />
Much of the public reaction may stem from the disturbing tone of some of the illustrations. For instance, one particularly unsettling image appeared to show a face pierced with needles&mdash;an image that many associated with pain or despair. The total absence of captions added to the sense of mystery and ambiguity.
In the age of social media, such artistic choices often invite wild interpretations. To some, the blacked-out profile picture and symbolic imagery suggested feelings of loss, isolation, or even depression. However, Jeffri and the NSC maintain that there is no indication of such issues from Lee&rsquo;s inner circle.
Comeback Set for Japan Open in Mid-July
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6efcdccd9a7afbd2aea3799fc5b5cbe4e38210ac8708a0a74da6287ad81fa386" />
Putting the social media drama aside, Lee Zii Jia is preparing to return to the international badminton circuit. The world No. 27 is expected to compete at the upcoming Japan Open, scheduled from 15 to 20 July 2025.
His world ranking dipped following an extended break due to a right ankle injury sustained during the World Tour Finals in December 2024. Since the beginning of 2025, Lee has only participated in two tournaments, prompting fans to worry not just about his form, but also his motivation and mental state.
Despite the speculation, his scheduled appearance in Japan indicates a positive step forward in his physical recovery and professional focus.
Public Support Continues as Zii Jia Remains Silent
As of now, Lee has not issued any official statement explaining the meaning behind the posts. Nevertheless, fans continue to flood the comment sections with words of encouragement, expressing hope that their badminton hero remains strong both mentally and physically.
Whether the posts were a form of introspective reflection, artistic curiosity, or simply aesthetic experimentation, the consensus from professionals and officials is clear: Lee Zii Jia is fine, and his fans have nothing to fear.
In the meantime, should anyone&mdash;athletes or members of the public&mdash;find themselves struggling emotionally, help is always available. Befrienders Malaysia can be contacted at 03-7627 2929. Remember, you are never alone.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

All is well and he’ll be back in action at the Japan Open on 15 July.

5067a92c702af6ce8c6581538beffad938b7266551b38eb74a2baacc97d0b32b

NSC Addresses Concerns Over Lee Zii Jia’s Artistic Posts: “Just Appreciating Art”

The newly upgraded Aerotrain at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is already under scrutiny following technical issues that occurred just one day after its relaunch. The Aerotrain, which links the Main Terminal with the Satellite Building, resumed operations on 1 July after a RM456 million upgrade. However, on 2 July, social media users reported that the service had already malfunctioned, raising alarm among travellers and netizens alike.
One Facebook user, Ahmad Ramadzan Soid, shared a photo of officials attending to the stalled Aerotrain at KLIA Terminal 1. In another post, Ashish Kale uploaded a photo of travellers boarding shuttle buses, suggesting the train was out of service.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fahmadramadzan.binsoid%2Fposts%2Fpfbid01Hrzv1n7d9joeVQEo3xb9HCdkvT3hb8rMhpehYd54cUjJexCcNu7E6RDWaB9WUwwl&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" width="500" height="530" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
At the time of reporting, no formal explanation was provided by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) as to whether the disruption was caused by a technical fault or part of post-launch operational fine-tuning. Regardless, the public response reflected disappointment that such an incident could occur so soon after a costly revamp.
Second Disruption Caused by Flooded Tunnel
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a5261c1e5f3285a2fac225244a6e89953289c811edbb80d697244f485175baed" />
Barely two days later, on 4 July, Aerotrain services were again suspended, this time due to water accumulation in the tunnel following heavy rainfall. According to MAHB, a drainage pump failed to activate automatically, preventing the removal of floodwater.
As a precaution, train operations were halted until the water was manually cleared and the safety of the tracks confirmed. The service resumed at 12.15pm that day. MAHB assured that technical teams were working to resolve the issue and are monitoring the system closely during this early phase of operations. Shuttle buses were deployed to maintain connectivity between terminals.
MAHB has also committed to improving the tunnel&rsquo;s drainage systems to prevent similar incidents in future weather events.
Netizens React: Sarcasm and Frustration
News of the malfunctions quickly made waves online. Many Malaysians responded with sarcasm, frustration and concern, particularly over the amount of public funds involved.
&ldquo;RM456 million and it&rsquo;s flooding already? Might as well have built a waterpark,&rdquo; one user commented.
&ldquo;No point in having shiny new trains if we&rsquo;re going to be wading through water,&rdquo; said another.
&ldquo;Even the shuttle buses felt more reliable. If this is the start, what&rsquo;s next?&rdquo;
Others expressed concern about the long-term durability of the project and called for greater transparency and accountability from authorities.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f37c3439d339da9bd9c03f8187ccb3705a591464368e558fe86c212f49ec8f16" />
Anwar Ibrahim: Praise and Optimism at Relaunch
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1719b2e2233c29f4645870f4d9258953594eb8661176f925a0dd1c60628c86d9" />
During the official relaunch on 1 July, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim praised the revamped Aerotrain for its speed and efficiency. Accompanied by Transport Minister Anthony Loke and MAHB managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani, Anwar rode the new driverless train between the Contact Pier and Satellite Building before departing for a diplomatic tour to Europe and South America.
Anwar described the Aerotrain experience as &ldquo;good&rdquo; and &ldquo;faster than before&rdquo;, highlighting the importance of the upgrade in enhancing KLIA&rsquo;s capacity as a regional travel hub. He also emphasised that such improvements are essential as the country prepares to welcome an influx of tourists under the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
The Alstom Innovia APM 300R train system, now in operation, can carry up to 270 passengers at speeds of 56 km/h, reducing terminal transfer time to under three minutes. MAHB confirmed that the new trains had undergone six months of testing under the supervision of the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) before the relaunch.
Moving Forward: Reliability Is Key
The Aerotrain is a vital component of KLIA&rsquo;s infrastructure, especially for the airport&rsquo;s 100,000 daily passengers, many of whom rely on it for timely terminal transfers. The back-to-back disruptions have raised public concerns about the long-term reliability of the system, particularly in the face of Malaysia&rsquo;s frequent heavy rainfall.
Given the RM456 million spent on the Aerotrain and the broader RM742 million refurbishment plan, there is now heightened public expectation for consistent performance. As the country gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026, stakeholders must ensure the system not only operates smoothly but is also resilient to weather and operational challenges.
MAHB's ability to respond to these early hiccups with transparency, quick fixes and long-term planning will be crucial in regaining public trust and maintaining Malaysia&rsquo;s standing as a leading regional aviation hub.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

Service was briefly paused after rainwater flooded the tunnel; operations have resumed.

17293146e3e242182a7fa51e378d593da117ad1ff887277d712003c6b7800d45

KLIA Aerotrain Faces Technical Setbacks Just Days After RM456 Million Relaunch

For many national athletes, the road to greatness is paved with not only sweat and sacrifice but also immense pressure and emotional strain. Public expectation, rigorous training, injuries, and the burden of constantly performing at an elite level can take a significant toll on one&rsquo;s mental health. While victories are celebrated and failures dissected, the human behind the jersey often suffers in silence.
Mental health is increasingly recognised as a critical aspect of sports performance and well-being, yet remains a taboo topic for many. This reality has once again come to the forefront in Malaysia following a cryptic and deeply concerning social media post by one of the country&rsquo;s most prominent sports figures &mdash; badminton ace Lee Zii Jia.
A Disturbing Cry for Help?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/26c2486579c2547f371b9ef470e0cf283eabc77226291c8178fffb712c641343" />
On 3 July 2025, Lee Zii Jia sent shockwaves through the badminton community and beyond when he uploaded a series of unsettling images to his Instagram account. The faceless, eerie illustrations appeared to convey themes of psychological anguish and emotional breakdown, including a stitched-up figure, a melting face pierced by needles, and a dark silhouette placing a gun to its head.
The 27-year-old shuttler provided no caption or explanation, but the images alone were enough to set off alarm bells. Fans noted that he had changed his profile picture to a pitch-black screen and closed his comment section entirely &mdash; signs that he might be withdrawing from public engagement.
Many interpreted the post as an unspoken cry for help or a symbolic representation of an internal struggle, possibly linked to his challenging year both on and off the court.
<blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DLpQljTSLME/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14">
<div style="padding: 16px;">
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>
<div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;">&nbsp;</div>
<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DLpQljTSLME/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Lee Zii Jia 李梓嘉 (@leeziijia)</a>
</div>
</blockquote>

<script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

An Olympic Fighter: The Bronze That Didn&rsquo;t Come Easy
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ecd995dcf78d2f5127ad5f4309e9729989c12f6a2d2750e950300eff2c030bc6" />
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/3690/lee-zii-jia-bags-2nd-olympic-bronze-medal-for-malaysia">Lee Zii Jia Bags 2nd Olympic Bronze Medal For Malaysia!</a>
Just a year ago, Zii Jia was at the peak of his career, proudly claiming the bronze medal for Malaysia at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. His path to the podium was anything but smooth.
After falling short in a dramatic semi-final clash, Zii Jia found himself in a high-stakes bronze medal match against India&rsquo;s Lakshya Sen. With the weight of the nation on his shoulders and his previous Olympic campaign still haunting him, the Malaysian played with a fierce blend of tactical maturity and raw determination. He dug deep, weathering long rallies and overcoming momentum shifts to eventually triumph in three tight games, securing Malaysia&rsquo;s first Olympic badminton medal since 2016.
The victory was a significant career milestone for the Kedah-born player, reaffirming his place among the sport&rsquo;s top-tier talents. But as his recent social media activity suggests, even career highs can&rsquo;t shield an athlete from inner battles.
Fans and Fellow Players Offer Words of Support
Following his post, Malaysians flooded social media with messages of concern and encouragement. Although he had limited interactions on his own account, fan pages and fellow players reached out to offer empathy and support.
&ldquo;You&rsquo;re doing great, Zii Jia. Don&rsquo;t let the noise bring you down,&rdquo; one fan wrote on X. Others emphasised the importance of rest and self-care, with messages like, &ldquo;Take your time to heal &mdash; physically and mentally. We&rsquo;ll be here when you&rsquo;re ready.&rdquo;
There was a palpable shift in tone among Malaysians, with many rallying around their national hero not as a player but as a person navigating the emotional weight of fame and expectation.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/51bd436905e2c3aebb180e4f7952ba448be7ac4f141d8081f98c1eff01abcbde" />
Injury, Setbacks and the Fight to Return
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6ac80288649a878b5475bc4b7f3149f8a54dec153a3c9244a88b11ba682963e1" />
Zii Jia&rsquo;s recent silence on court is partly due to injury. After suffering a right ankle injury at the 2023 World Tour Finals in December, he only participated in two tournaments in 2024 &mdash; the Orl&eacute;ans Masters and the All England Championship. At the latter, he was knocked out in the first round, prompting further concern about his form and readiness.
He later pulled out of the Badminton Asia Championships in April, choosing instead to focus on recovery. His world ranking dropped to No. 27, but he has since applied for a protected ranking through the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to preserve his tournament eligibility during his rehabilitation period.
Despite his physical recovery reportedly progressing, the recent Instagram post suggests the psychological toll may still linger.
Eyes on a Return &ndash; and Hope for Renewal
Lee Zii Jia is expected to make his comeback at the Japan Open from 15&ndash;20 July, followed by the China Open later in the month. These tournaments serve as his final major tests ahead of the 2025 BWF World Championships in Paris, set to take place from 25&ndash;31 August.
With the badminton calendar heating up, the pressure is once again mounting. Yet fans are now calling not just for victories, but for compassion, space, and a more holistic support system for athletes like Zii Jia.
Ending on a Note of Hope
While Lee Zii Jia&rsquo;s post has sparked concern, it also opens an important conversation about mental health in Malaysian sports. This dialogue needs to be louder, kinder, and more informed. Behind the racket is a young man who has given the nation moments of pride and glory, and who now seems to need understanding more than applause.
As Zii Jia prepares to re-enter the court, Malaysians stand united in hope: not just for wins, but for his well-being. May this period of hardship serve as a chapter of growth, healing, and strength. And when he returns, may he do so not just as a player, but as a whole, healthier person.
We&rsquo;re with you, Zii Jia. Bounce back soon.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

The pressure is real, but Malaysians are with him every step of the way.

c62d4fe9dd83c57529711ec4b372f324b1682c9e03320cba73aa224131efeea5

Lee Zii Jia’s Troubling Instagram Post Sparks Widespread Concern Over Athlete Mental Health

A well-meaning attempt to help his sister secure off-campus housing turned into a costly ordeal for a local man, after he was allegedly scammed out of RM1,400 by a fake property agent. The incident, which took place in Cheras, has gone viral on X (formerly Twitter), sparking concern over growing online rental fraud in Malaysia.
Helping Family Turns into Financial Trap
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
found a nice unit for rent on <a href="https://t.co/60XW4hHczc">https://t.co/60XW4hHczc</a>. looked clean, price okay, good area. contacted the guy on 16th June 2025. we arranged a viewing on 18th June, 8PM at Parc 3, Cheras, i went with my sister &amp; her friends. <a href="https://t.co/c11mrmSdqj">pic.twitter.com/c11mrmSdqj</a>
&mdash; fazeem (@fazeeeeeem) <a href="https://twitter.com/fazeeeeeem/status/1939649993071264205?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a X (formally known as Twitter) thread that has since been widely shared, user Fazeem recounted how he was trying to assist his sister and her friends in finding a new home, as their university dormitory contracts were expiring in early July. After searching online, he came across what seemed like the perfect unit listed on Mudah.my &ndash; a popular local marketplace &ndash; and contacted the supposed owner on 16 June.
A viewing was arranged for 18 June at Parc 3, Cheras, where Fazeem met a man who presented himself confidently as the unit&rsquo;s rightful owner. &ldquo;He gave me his IC, showed me a past tenancy agreement, and really played the part,&rdquo; Fazeem explained, adding that the man was so convincing that he didn&rsquo;t feel the need to question anything at the time.
Booking Fee Paid, Agreement Signed
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
he said he&rsquo;d pass the key by 26 or 27 June. but on 24 June, he suddenly asked me to pay another RM2,200, and said the last RM1,400 can be paid anytime in July. i told him i&rsquo;ll only pay after i get the key. he said okay. <a href="https://t.co/g6RVUmkrNY">pic.twitter.com/g6RVUmkrNY</a>
&mdash; fazeem (@fazeeeeeem) <a href="https://twitter.com/fazeeeeeem/status/1939650039112208568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Trusting that everything was in order, Fazeem proceeded to transfer a RM1,400 booking fee to secure the unit. He received a tenancy agreement on 21 June, which he signed and returned two days later. According to their arrangement, he was due to receive the keys on 26 or 27 June.
However, things began to unravel when the man suddenly demanded an additional RM2,200, stating that the remaining RM1,400 could be paid in July. This raised red flags for Fazeem, who replied that he would only pay after receiving the keys. The man agreed &mdash; but that was the last Fazeem ever heard from him.
Sudden Disappearance
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
on 28th June i tried texting him, ONE TICK. tried calling, straight to voicemail. whatsapp shows &ldquo;number not registered&rdquo;. he deleted his account and vanished just like that. <a href="https://t.co/koyTnwBVfh">pic.twitter.com/koyTnwBVfh</a>
&mdash; fazeem (@fazeeeeeem) <a href="https://twitter.com/fazeeeeeem/status/1939650051472822549?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

By 28 June, the scammer had completely disappeared. Phone calls went straight to voicemail, WhatsApp showed the number as &ldquo;not registered&rdquo;, and the individual had deleted his account. &ldquo;He vanished just like that,&rdquo; Fazeem wrote, frustrated. &ldquo;I only wanted to help my sister and her friends find a place before their lease ends on 5 July. These scammers are too slick nowadays &mdash; always verify everything before handing over money.&rdquo;
Fazeem has since lodged a police report and is now awaiting further investigation by the authorities.
Repeat Offender?
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
His real name is Muhammad Muzhaffar Akmal bin Rahim. And that is his car as well. <a href="https://t.co/ikn6Z6S36P">pic.twitter.com/ikn6Z6S36P</a>
&mdash; ChristyMacr (@ChristyMacr) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChristyMacr/status/1939724798114111837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

After sharing his experience, Fazeem was contacted by other social media users who claimed they too had been duped by the same man. One reposted tweet by user @ChristyMacr showed alleged photos of the scammer and his car, with another commenter claiming they had been scammed by him back in 2019, and the case was still unresolved.
&ldquo;He&rsquo;s using someone else&rsquo;s IC. That&rsquo;s not even his real name,&rdquo; another user claimed, suggesting a pattern of identity fraud.
Here&rsquo;s some comments from netizens on the issue:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Damn this guy still scamming around. Igtkan masih dkt dalam lepas dah kena pijak ramai ramai. My case on 2019 got scammed by him pun tak settle. Ramai dah kena dgn dia. Mmg cara dia mmg smooth like butter. Gain trust his victim.
&mdash; Stay Alive (@NasrulZahudin) <a href="https://twitter.com/NasrulZahudin/status/1939783028873801902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Hey! I think i got scammed by this very same guy but he used a different name and bank account in my case.
&mdash; Hayn (@haynwhoagain) <a href="https://twitter.com/haynwhoagain/status/1939915521941807256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
omg I got scammed by this person around RM5K jugak la this year, ever until now still tak ada progress. Kes sama, nak sewa rumah rupanya airbnb.
&mdash; AJ (@ssupajayy) <a href="https://twitter.com/ssupajayy/status/1939999617283981628?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Rule 101 kalau deal dengan ejen property 1. Minta business card 2. Check availability praktis dia cth no REN di <a href="https://t.co/4veG4sDmtl">https://t.co/4veG4sDmtl</a> 3. Sebarang urusan transaksi MESTI melalui agensi bukan no akaun peribadi 3 cara ni je simple. Oh ya saya bukan REN saya PEA4054
&mdash; Shafiq Iqram (@shafiqram_) <a href="https://twitter.com/shafiqram_/status/1939672679302476248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Airbnb Properties Used as Props
According to other reports, the scammer allegedly rents Airbnb units for short stays and uses them as bait during property viewings. This allows him to appear credible and professional to unsuspecting victims. A few users offered tips on how to avoid similar scams, such as using Google reverse image search to check whether the property photos are taken from public listings or Airbnb.
Authorities Urge Caution
Rental scams remain a persistent problem in Malaysia, especially in urban areas like Kuala Lumpur where demand for housing is high. Victims are often students or young adults, unfamiliar with rental procedures and under pressure to secure accommodation quickly.
The police have reminded the public to remain vigilant and verify all documentation, including ownership papers, tenancy agreements, and landlord identification. Transactions should never be completed without viewing the property and confirming ownership with building management or online property databases.
Although netizens have pointed out that the scammer has been operating for some time, we hope the authorities will act swiftly and decisively to bring him to justice, especially given the growing number of victims who have fallen prey to his deceit.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

The alleged scammer reportedly used Airbnb listings to deceive victims into thinking he owned the property.

87afd955d16d6fb1a6e345e2c5528a2246c07857cef1bd20263ff1af5fbabede

Apartment Rental Scam in Cheras: Man Duped While Helping Sister Find A Home

A minor traffic accident in Taman Desa quickly escalated into a serious confrontation after one of the parties involved allegedly brandished a fake pistol, leading to the arrest of two men. The alarming incident, which unfolded late on Monday night, has reignited concerns over public safety and the growing trend of imitation weapons being purchased online.
Late-Night Collision Escalates into Threat
&nbsp;<video style="width: 706px; height: 353px;" controls="controls" width="706" height="353">
<source src="https://r2.myc.my/605f5e9cbb3eec91961b74eafbe4d17f7805a1325e9ba7d8ec572c7ea33cde8d" /></video>
According to the Brickfields District Police, the incident began around 11pm on 1 July when a black Honda City, driven by a 28-year-old man, was struck on its right-side mirror by a red Toyota Yaris near Jalan Desa. What began as a routine fender-bender turned heated as the drivers exited their vehicles and confronted one another.
The situation took a dangerous turn when the driver of the Toyota Yaris suddenly pulled out what appeared to be a black pistol and pointed it directly at the complainant. The weapon was allegedly used to threaten the victim during the argument, creating a highly distressing scene.
Fearing for his safety, the Honda driver lodged a police report at 12.55am the following morning. Police officers responded swiftly to the report and managed to apprehend two suspects, aged 19 and 27, later that day.
Weapon Found to Be Replica Purchased on TikTok
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/111dc51aa541343e6fa7c2d51a9f2235e28a80e03cde4a06cd3bca79feb0cc27" />
Initial investigations revealed that the weapon used in the confrontation was not a real firearm but a replica pistol. According to police, the fake gun had been purchased through the popular social media platform TikTok by one of the suspects.
Brickfields police chief Assistant Commissioner Ku Mashariman Ku Mahmood confirmed the detail in a statement, noting that the weapon was &ldquo;an imitation, not capable of discharging live ammunition, but still capable of causing fear and alarm among the public.&rdquo;
He further revealed that one of the suspects may have been under the influence of alcohol during the incident, although this aspect of the investigation is ongoing.
Four-Day Remand Granted
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a08fe41f8557ca1dd3f5abc80c8110cdb884dd9e81065ec0650b9c0811f191cb" />
Both men were brought before a magistrate and have been remanded for four days, until 5 July, to assist police with their enquiries. Authorities are now pursuing charges under two separate legal provisions.
The case is being investigated under Section 506 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation, which carries a punishment of up to seven years' imprisonment, a fine, or both. Additionally, the suspects are also being investigated under Section 36(1) of the Arms Act 1960 for possession of an imitation firearm, which carries similar penalties upon conviction.
Viral Footage and Public Outrage
The case gained public attention after a video of the incident began circulating on social media, showing one of the suspects pointing the weapon during the verbal altercation. The footage drew strong criticism from netizens, with many expressing concern over the ease of access to imitation firearms online, especially through unregulated platforms such as TikTok.
&ldquo;This kind of behaviour is not just reckless; it&rsquo;s downright dangerous,&rdquo; said one local resident interviewed near the scene. &ldquo;You never know what&rsquo;s real and what&rsquo;s fake &mdash; and in a tense moment, it could cost someone their life.&rdquo;
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments from netizens:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9d8b3cff13ceda1c34999c1bd1024ea166789a43fc14239c13107d16d0243188" />
Police Urge Public Vigilance
In light of the incident, Assistant Commissioner Ku Mashariman urged the public to remain calm during road accidents and avoid letting tempers flare into violence. He also encouraged anyone who witnesses criminal acts or suspicious activity to report them to the authorities without hesitation.
&ldquo;The public must understand that road rage incidents can have serious consequences. Brandishing any form of weapon, even an imitation, is a criminal offence that we take very seriously,&rdquo; he said.
He added that the police remain committed to ensuring public safety and would not hesitate to act against individuals who engage in threatening or unlawful behaviour.
Members of the public with relevant information about this or similar incidents can contact the Kuala Lumpur Police Hotline at 03-2115 9999, the Brickfields District Police Headquarters at 03-2297 9222, or visit the nearest police station.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

Time for platforms to regulate the sale of imitation weapons online.

Lim Guan Eng Questions Premium Hikes Amidst Rising Medical Costs And Profitable Insurers

BNM should prioritise helping citizens, not pushing us into financial hardship.

Latest News

NSC Addresses Concerns Over Lee Zii Jia’s Artistic Posts: “Just Appreciating Art”

KLIA Aerotrain Faces Technical Setbacks Just Days After RM456 Million Relaunch

Lee Zii Jia’s Troubling Instagram Post Sparks Widespread Concern Over Athlete Mental Health

Apartment Rental Scam in Cheras: Man Duped While Helping Sister Find A Home

Road Rage Turns Hostile In Taman Desa: Two Arrested After Brandishing Fake Gun

Related Articles

NSC Addresses Concerns Over Lee Zii Jia’s Artistic Posts: “Just Appreciating Art”

KLIA Aerotrain Faces Technical Setbacks Just Days After RM456 Million Relaunch

Lee Zii Jia’s Troubling Instagram Post Sparks Widespread Concern Over Athlete Mental Health

Apartment Rental Scam in Cheras: Man Duped While Helping Sister Find A Home

Road Rage Turns Hostile In Taman Desa: Two Arrested After Brandishing Fake Gun

Related Articles

NSC Addresses Concerns Over Lee Zii Jia’s Artistic Posts: “Just Appreciating Art”

KLIA Aerotrain Faces Technical Setbacks Just Days After RM456 Million Relaunch

Lee Zii Jia’s Troubling Instagram Post Sparks Widespread Concern Over Athlete Mental Health

Apartment Rental Scam in Cheras: Man Duped While Helping Sister Find A Home

Road Rage Turns Hostile In Taman Desa: Two Arrested After Brandishing Fake Gun