Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

apology

controversy

alcohol

backlash

celebration

Petronas

champagne

motorsports

The champagne spray has been synonymous with Formula One podium celebrations since the 1950s, when race winners began popping bottles of bubbly to mark their victories. Over the decades, the ritual has become an iconic spectacle: drivers lifting their trophies before drenching each other, their teams, and the crowd in celebratory streams of champagne.
In recent years, however, the tradition has sparked debates in countries where alcohol consumption is either banned or sensitive. To accommodate local regulations, Formula One has sometimes substituted alcoholic champagne with non-alcoholic alternatives such as sparkling water or alcohol-free sparkling wine, while still bearing the familiar Mo&euml;t branding.
The Incident in Singapore
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PETRONAS CEO Muhammad Taufik has apologised for taking part in the podium celebration where champagne was sprayed at the Singapore Grand Prix. "While I can categorically state I did not consume any alcohol, as a Muslim, I should have been more aware of the sensitivities&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/WDJK7j0Oz3">pic.twitter.com/WDJK7j0Oz3</a>
&mdash; BFM News (@NewsBFM) <a href="https://twitter.com/NewsBFM/status/1975727263162507626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2025</a></blockquote>

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The latest controversy unfolded on 5 October 2025, when Mercedes-AMG Petronas driver George Russell secured victory at the Singapore Grand Prix. As Petronas is the title sponsor and long-time partner of the Mercedes team, its President and Group CEO, Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik, was invited onto the podium to receive the Winning Constructor&rsquo;s Trophy.
During the celebrations, Tengku Taufik was sprayed with champagne alongside Russell and the team, and he joined in posing for photographs with bottles in hand. Footage of the incident quickly circulated online, igniting a heated response from the public. Critics argued that, as a Muslim and a corporate leader, he should have avoided taking part in festivities associated with alcohol.
Some pointed out that previous Petronas CEOs had deliberately stepped away from the podium before the champagne showers began, a gesture seen as respecting religious sensitivities.
Clarification: Was It Really Alcohol?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f242e89fc3a2f47a6b337d7bd83e0e0f364c668424ce272773ec5ee532517403" />
Much of the uproar stemmed from the assumption that champagne used in Singapore contained alcohol. However, Formula One had announced just weeks earlier, in September 2025, that Mo&euml;t Hennessy&rsquo;s French Bloom would be the official alcohol-free sparkling wine partner for its events.
The beverage, a premium sparkling ros&eacute; water branded under Mo&euml;t, is distributed at all F1-operated Paddock Clubs and garages, and often extends to podium celebrations in venues where alcohol restrictions apply &ndash; such as Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Dubai. This raises the possibility that the drink sprayed in Singapore may not have contained any alcohol at all, even if it looked indistinguishable from traditional champagne.
Nevertheless, the optics of the incident struck a nerve with certain sections of the Malaysian public, particularly among conservative groups.
The Apology
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/98d92e37904c17d9920910951a1844fe18d9327f94e6ce9e1c8b4b1715c7ffbf" />
On 7 October, Tengku Taufik issued a formal apology, acknowledging the criticism and clarifying his position. He stressed that he had not consumed alcohol but admitted that his actions may have been &ldquo;misplaced&rdquo; in light of the sensitivities involved.
&ldquo;While I can categorically state I did not consume any alcohol, as a Muslim, I should have been more aware of the sensitivities associated with taking part in such celebrations. Accordingly, I want to apologise for any unintended offence caused and take full responsibility for my actions,&rdquo; he said in his statement.
He added that his participation had been a spontaneous expression of joy following a &ldquo;long-awaited victory&rdquo; and that he was honoured to represent Petronas on such a global stage.
Public Reaction and Political Undertones
Reactions to the apology have been mixed. While some Malaysians condemned Tengku Taufik&rsquo;s actions, arguing that he should have known better, others defended him, pointing out the non-alcoholic nature of the drink and describing the criticism as disproportionate.
The issue also gained political traction. Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) was among the most vocal in criticising the CEO, highlighting how the episode clashed with Malaysia&rsquo;s cultural and religious sensitivities. The controversy echoed an earlier row in October involving Tourism Minister Tiong King Sing, who faced backlash for alcohol being served at an official dinner.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
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Dia pun kaki minum. Klu org tak minum arak tobak dia xkan pegang botol arak tu. Sambil sembur sambil minum arak
&mdash; Abu.Ar (@adzdin) <a href="https://twitter.com/adzdin/status/1975436641453154645?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2025</a></blockquote>

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So he blundered. He apologized. Did his actions harm anyone? Asking for him to resign? Overkill much? We should be more outraged that our officials tried to pass 7 foreigners as Malaysians, using questionable documents. Those people should be held accountable.
&mdash; Watchful so as not to be deceived (@dougyeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/dougyeo/status/1975749861656936755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Tak minum tapi main air haha confirm lah kantoi.. apa lagi lah tak kantoi.. tuhan nak tunjuk.. memang mintak kena maki.. dunia mewah akhirat semoga diampunkan
&mdash; arina 🍉🍉🍉🍉 (@arinafrhn) <a href="https://twitter.com/arinafrhn/status/1975761235594584185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Mana fair. Cuba kalau yang staff bawahan yg buat mcm tu. Bg rosak imej petronas, confirm kena tatatertib or kena buang terus
&mdash; SirBlackXavier (@SirBlackXavier1) <a href="https://twitter.com/SirBlackXavier1/status/1975716514893602824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2025</a></blockquote>

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CEO buat salah, minta maaf. Staf bawah pencacai terbuat lawak bodoh, terus kena DI.
&mdash; Dr Ismail (@dr_ismailashmat) <a href="https://twitter.com/dr_ismailashmat/status/1975572387837190483?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Time sembur tu rasa ada dah termasuk mulut. "Tak minum" . Sadie Mane tu mengaji tak pandai pun. Tahu nak elak benda ni
&mdash; Fitri Ten Hag (@Fitrixxyy) <a href="https://twitter.com/Fitrixxyy/status/1975576102564470917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Beyond the Gaffe: Petronas in Formula One
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ce0da42bd77605dcbf7ba8ea2cd28eacfbed44f9b30937ba674e919ebdb9c174" />
Despite the uproar, Tengku Taufik used his statement to reiterate Petronas&rsquo; commitment to Formula One and highlight Malaysia&rsquo;s contributions to the sport. He described the partnership with Mercedes-AMG as a showcase of Malaysian innovation and capabilities, especially as the sport transitions to sustainable fuels in the coming years.
Petronas has been a title sponsor and technical partner of Mercedes-AMG for over a decade, playing a pivotal role in its dominance across multiple championship seasons. The Singapore win marked a milestone in their ongoing collaboration and was celebrated internationally as a major achievement for the team.
A Lesson in Optics
While the controversy may soon fade, it underscores the delicate balance corporate figures must maintain between international sporting traditions and domestic cultural expectations. For Petronas, the champagne shower incident has proven to be more than a fleeting podium moment &mdash; it has become a case study in how global partnerships can collide with local sensitivities.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Though he didn’t consume alcohol, he admits joining the champagne spray was a mistake.

5f2d5124dc48dfa80ac357f0040c2dbd12bef34e38e5fc147df302b5f92397af

Petronas CEO Tengku Muhammad Taufik  Apologises Over F1 Champagne Podium Controversy

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KFC Treats 2

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Cornetto

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AXE MLBB

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BIllie Eilish UMMY

A Universiti Malaya (UM) student has sparked widespread discussion online after openly questioning why members of the public are donating money to help former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak pay a RM50 million fine. Her remarks, made during a dialogue with political leaders in Kuala Lumpur, have reignited conversations about corruption, political accountability and the importance of speaking up against wrongdoing.
Ummi Umairah Bakhit, a student representative from UM, raised the issue during the third edition of the iFUTURE summit, held at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur from 11 to 13 October. The session featured former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari and Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
Student Questions Public Donations To Najib
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Agreed and nicely said. "And the 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗽𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀𝘁 thing I have watch in my entire life, is people 𝗱𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 for our former Prime Minister Najib Razak, someone is clearly has a world worst corruption case 1MDB and its clearly linked to corruption". Walajib is confirm to be among those stupidest 😁😁😁
&mdash; Mr.Nazril (@Nazril_Iznil) <a href="https://x.com/Nazril_Iznil/status/2110528739671183504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2026</a></blockquote>

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During the question-and-answer session, Ummi highlighted several controversies involving alleged corruption and political accountability, including the Tabung Haji controversy and reports that a politician&rsquo;s son had allegedly received RM4 million without working.
She then questioned the public&rsquo;s willingness to contribute money to Najib, describing the fundraising effort as the &ldquo;stupidest thing&rdquo; she had ever witnessed, given the former prime minister&rsquo;s legal history and links to the wider 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) scandal.
Ummi also asked the panellists how young Malaysians could be encouraged to speak out against corruption and political feudalism, think critically and support their arguments with facts and statistical evidence.
Her comments subsequently circulated on social media, with many users praising her willingness to raise sensitive questions directly with senior political figures. The discussion also highlighted the challenges of encouraging accountability when allegations of wrongdoing involve influential political leaders.
Why Are Malaysians Donating Money To Najib?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d97fb118ce5a7275cac4bd67d03ebee282592f6dfe87cd2516f11952ee5f249a" />
The controversy centres on the Najib Razak Solidarity Fund, which was established on 18 September following the announcement of a conditional pardon for the former prime minister.
Najib was convicted in the SRC International case, which involved RM42 million transferred into his personal bank accounts. The case is separate from the wider 1MDB scandal, which involved the alleged misappropriation of billions of dollars from Malaysia&rsquo;s state investment fund.
Under the pardon decision, Najib&rsquo;s prison sentence was reduced, and he was granted a conditional arrangement to serve the remainder of his sentence under house detention until 23 August 2028. He is also subject to a RM50 million fine, with the conditions of his pardon forming the basis of the fundraising campaign.
On 27 September, UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that the party had collected RM9.25 million for the solidarity fund.
The fundraising effort has drawn criticism from those who question whether public contributions should be used to help a former leader meet financial penalties arising from a criminal conviction. Others may view the donations as an expression of political support or solidarity with Najib.
It is this contrast that prompted Ummi to question what message such fundraising sends to younger Malaysians about integrity and accountability.
Khairy Says Wrongdoing Should Never Be Defended
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/cc7c3f31acc4500333e19f3ea569553c4232997e05788991da214bc3cfb839ab" />
Responding to Ummi&rsquo;s question, Khairy acknowledged her concerns and stressed that corruption and mismanagement should not be defended simply because they involve political allies or leaders.
&ldquo;We shouldn't be afraid about talking about corruption, even if it involves our leaders. What is wrong is wrong. What you cannot defend, don't defend,&rdquo; he said.
He also emphasised that those facing allegations or cases should answer for them, adding that integrity should never be compromised regardless of political affiliation.
Amirudin welcomed the younger generation&rsquo;s continued attention to corruption, describing it as a longstanding national concern and an encouraging sign for Malaysia&rsquo;s future leadership.
Onn Hafiz similarly condemned corruption, describing it as a &ldquo;cancer&rdquo; that could undermine progress. He said wrongdoing should not be tolerated, whether it involved political leaders, individuals or businesses.
Unverified Claims Of Pressure On Student Spark Further Debate
Following the viral exchange, social media users also raised concerns over claims that certain parties were pressuring UM to take action against Ummi because of her remarks.
The allegations prompted further online support for the student, with some users defending her right to question political leaders and express her views on matters of public interest.
However, the claims have not been independently verified. No confirmed evidence has established who was allegedly involved, and there has been no confirmation that UM has initiated disciplinary proceedings against her.
The exchange took place during iFUTURE 2026, organised by the Higher Education Ministry through the Department of Higher Education. The summit brought together 1,231 student leaders from 20 Malaysian public universities and 30 international universities to discuss value-based leadership.
Ummi&rsquo;s remarks have since become part of a wider debate over whether political loyalty should ever take precedence over integrity, and whether young Malaysians can challenge those in power without fear of repercussions.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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One student speaks up, sparking debate over corruption and political accountability.

17e6d13ff4d6c2f154955d926d2ffafedcadbafa4cf3a40a9aaf09a1dae09bf0

UM Student Goes Viral After Calling Donations For Najib’s RM50 Million Fine ‘Stupidest Thing Ever’

WhatsApp has introduced a new Guest Calling feature that allows people to join voice and video calls without creating a WhatsApp account or installing the application. Announced by Meta on 15 October 2026, the update makes it easier for users to connect with friends, colleagues, classmates and other contacts who do not use the messaging platform.
The feature offers free, end-to-end encrypted calls without time limits, meaning participants can continue their conversations without worrying about calls being cut off or having to reconnect. Guests can join through an invitation link using a computer's web browser, making WhatsApp calling more accessible to people who use different communication platforms.
How To Join A WhatsApp Guest Call
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5ba7446bd9f190e3390e356a93ee4d9c9a3828eb9ae10f17c0a564b4bfce2c56" />
Although anyone can join as a guest, only registered WhatsApp users can create call links and invite other participants.
To start a call, an existing user needs to open WhatsApp, navigate to the Calls tab and select the plus (+) icon. They can then generate a call link and share it with the people they want to invite.
Recipients can open the link in their computer browser, enter their name and wait for the host to approve their entry. They do not need to download WhatsApp or register for an account to participate.
Guest Calling supports both one-to-one conversations and group calls with up to 32 participants. This could be particularly useful for online meetings, group discussions, remote learning and situations where participants do not all use the same messaging service.
Guest Calling Includes Privacy And Security Controls
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/af0781809fb8903c3d4674d435a18008786ca63994e1334b15ce7b36ba33f2bc" />
While the feature makes joining calls easier, WhatsApp has introduced restrictions to protect participants' privacy and give hosts greater control over who enters a conversation.
Anyone joining through a guest link will first be placed in a virtual waiting room. The host must approve each guest before they can enter the call and can remove them at any point if necessary.
Guests also have limited access to certain features. They cannot view other participants' phone numbers, send messages within the call or invite additional people directly. Only registered WhatsApp users can create call links and initiate these sessions.
However, guests can still use several essential in-call tools, including screen sharing, emoji reactions and the raise-hand function. These features allow participants to present information, respond to discussions and indicate when they want to speak without needing a full WhatsApp account.
The combination of end-to-end encryption, host approval and restricted guest permissions is intended to make calls more accessible without compromising the platform's focus on privacy.
WhatsApp To Introduce Google Calendar And Outlook Integration
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fde1f70f49c421ec44e9663dfc5723f32858e6138886e5fd5d8bcc972059fe96" />
Meta has also announced plans to introduce calendar integrations later in 2026, allowing users to create WhatsApp calls directly through Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook.
The planned feature will require users to install an official WhatsApp plugin and connect their account. They will then be able to add WhatsApp call links to calendar invitations, allowing invited participants to access scheduled calls directly from their event details.
Importantly, guests will still be able to join these calls without a WhatsApp account, making it easier to organise meetings without requiring everyone to sign up for the same service. However, Meta has yet to provide a specific release date for the calendar integrations.
WhatsApp Continues To Expand Its Calling Features
Guest Calling is the latest addition to WhatsApp's efforts to improve its calling experience, following updates to its web calling capabilities and other communication features.
The move also reflects the platform's wider aim of making communication more convenient across different devices and services. By removing the requirement for every participant to have an account, WhatsApp is making its calls a more practical option for work meetings, education and everyday conversations.
For users in Malaysia and elsewhere, the feature could be especially helpful when arranging calls with clients, classmates or family members who do not use WhatsApp. With free calls, no time restrictions and browser-based access for guests, joining a conversation now requires fewer steps &mdash; although the host must still have a WhatsApp account to create the invitation link.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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No WhatsApp account? No problem — joining your next online meeting just got a whole lot easier.

80ba96825d36bf84da39e7a8fe88ecd2200c21e66c944c060c0c636a8094735b

WhatsApp Guest Calling Lets Anyone Join Calls Without An Account Or Time Limits

Malaysia is considering a return to the Formula One (F1) calendar following the successful staging of the 2026 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit (SIC), which attracted approximately 261,000 spectators and generated an estimated RM950 million in economic activity.
Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari said the government is assessing whether hosting F1 again would deliver sufficient economic benefits to justify the substantial costs involved.
Speaking in the Dewan Rakyat on 15 October 2026, he said a comprehensive evaluation report is expected to be presented to the Cabinet by November. The findings will help determine whether Malaysia should pursue a long-term hosting agreement.
Although the recent race has renewed interest in bringing F1 back, the government has stressed that no final decision has been made.
Malaysia Considers Hosting F1 Every Few Years
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4a5f8981d13757d9983bb6a6e23ebdd05052a54c4b3569cc315b330b4cc47118" />
One proposal under consideration is to host F1 races every few years, potentially in partnership with another country, rather than committing to an annual Grand Prix.
Taufiq confirmed that preliminary discussions had taken place between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali and the championship&rsquo;s management regarding a possible return.
A committee involving several ministries and the Chief Secretary to the Government is assessing the proposal, including hosting costs, infrastructure readiness, potential economic benefits and return on investment.
The government wants to ensure that the benefits extend beyond the Youth and Sports Ministry and SIC, including through tourism, hospitality and commercial activity.
&ldquo;Hosting F1 is not cheap, and there are several important aspects that we need to evaluate,&rdquo; Taufiq said.
Sepang&rsquo;s 2026 F1 Event Attracted More Than 260,000 Spectators
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/141973cf6546910e0cf739153d93626e583bcff08f2b04e8c926a76d53b947cf" />
The recent event marked F1&rsquo;s return to Sepang for the first time since Malaysia&rsquo;s final Malaysian Grand Prix in October 2017. However, the race held from 2 to 4 October 2026 was officially the Bahrain Grand Prix, relocated to Malaysia amid security concerns affecting the Middle East.
The temporary arrangement allowed Sepang to host F1 again without reinstating the Malaysian Grand Prix as a separate championship round.
According to government figures, the three-day event attracted around 261,000 spectators, including approximately 103,000 on race day. Ticket sales exceeded 100,000, compared with roughly 30,000 during Malaysia&rsquo;s final F1 appearance in 2017.
The government estimated that the event generated nearly RM950 million in economic impact, strengthening the case for further discussions about restoring the championship.
However, Taufiq cautioned that strong attendance at a one-off event does not necessarily mean similar results could be sustained through annual hosting commitments.
High Hosting Costs Remain A Major Obstacle
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3b5581793e15cce896102c9875c97a66a96d540197cf0a7fd0763dbf1e74091e" />
One of the biggest challenges facing Malaysia&rsquo;s potential F1 return is the cost of hosting the championship.
Malaysia stopped hosting F1 after the 2017 season, partly because the financial commitments were considered too high relative to the economic returns.
In August 2025, former Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh told Parliament that hosting F1 could require approximately RM300 million annually in fees paid to Liberty Media, the championship&rsquo;s commercial rights holder. With typical hosting contracts lasting three to five years, a five-year commitment could reach RM1.5 billion.
The government must determine whether revenue from tourism, hospitality, ticket sales and related commercial activities would justify the expense.
Infrastructure readiness, traffic management, public transport and spectator facilities are also important considerations. Taufiq acknowledged that Malaysia had only around two months to prepare for the relocated 2026 event, with improvements still needed in certain areas.
Any future arrangement would require coordination across multiple government agencies rather than relying solely on the Youth and Sports Ministry and SIC.
Local Businesses Benefit From Race Weekend
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f5b6df394509d6c012c74a958d7c65bda729c54bec8e75cd35e1334a99101810" />
Beyond the overall economic impact, the relocated Bahrain Grand Prix created commercial opportunities for Malaysian businesses.
Taufiq said the event was coordinated through a whole-of-government approach involving eight subcommittees and 532 volunteers.
Local entrepreneurs also benefited from the Rasa MADANI food and small and medium enterprise vendor carnival, where 40 participating vendors generated more than RM550,000 in sales over the three-day weekend.
These figures will form part of the government&rsquo;s assessment of whether hosting F1 again could deliver wider economic benefits. However, officials must establish how much of the estimated RM950 million in economic activity could be sustained through a recurring hosting arrangement.
Grassroots Motorsport Development Remains A Priority
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a950179a9c8a861ed421db9377c9adc69f52b470882dd97aa6eb1902cf32df9f" />
Taufiq stressed that a potential F1 return must not come at the expense of funding for other sports or athlete development.
In 2025, the Youth and Sports Ministry allocated RM5.6 million to 29 programmes covering 159 activities and competitions across two-wheel and four-wheel motorsports.
Grassroots initiatives continued in 2026, including motocross track days, go-karting, minibike programmes, rally activities and motorsport classes for women. SIC also supports local drivers through competitions such as the Malaysia Touring Car Championship and Sepang 1000km.
The ministry aims to widen access to motorsports, particularly for young people and those in rural areas, so Malaysia can develop its own racing talent rather than focus primarily on hosting international events.
Cabinet Decision Expected By November
Malaysia&rsquo;s potential return to the F1 calendar remains at an exploratory stage, with the government&rsquo;s assessment report expected to reach the Cabinet by November 2026.
The findings will help determine whether the economic benefits, infrastructure requirements and financial commitments make hosting another race viable.
Neither the government nor F1 has confirmed a date for the Malaysian Grand Prix to return. For now, hosting races every few years, potentially through an arrangement with another country, remains one option under consideration.
Ultimately, the decision will depend on whether Malaysia can secure a financially sustainable deal while continuing to invest in grassroots motorsports and other national sports programmes.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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The engines may have cooled, but the debate over Malaysia’s racing future is only heating up.

cab845eb66f2c77e97ce3c63d86387538acab24cf5ae02a050fe066a2152014c

Malaysia Considers F1 Return As Sepang Race Generates RM950 Million In Economic Impact

Malaysia&rsquo;s first BMW-i smart public toilet has officially opened at Dataran Putra, Putrajaya, introducing automated features designed to improve hygiene, comfort and maintenance efficiency. Located beside the iconic pink Putra Mosque, the facility caters to both the public and tourists visiting the administrative capital.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming officiated the opening on 13 October 2026 as part of the government&rsquo;s efforts to modernise public amenities through smart technology.
Despite its name, BMW-i has nothing to do with the German carmaker. It stands for Bersih, Menawan, Wangi dan Pintar, meaning clean, attractive, fragrant and smart. The initiative aims to raise public toilet standards nationwide while making facilities more comfortable and easier to maintain.
Automatic Toilet Seats, Touchless Taps And Smart Cleaning
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4131536a8d959967f8316dbbc85e6ce36e4ab3a44a4f5a617652ed73097bbaf2" />
The BMW-i toilet features automatic toilet seat covers and flushing systems, touchless taps and soap dispensers, and an Internet of Things (IoT)-based fragrance system. Cubicle occupancy indicators also help visitors identify available facilities.
Environmental sensors monitor air quality, ammonia levels, lighting, temperature and humidity, allowing maintenance teams to track conditions and identify potential hygiene issues.
Other features include a user-counting system, smoke detectors, an automated floor-cleaning and drying system, and a user feedback panel. A mobile application tracks cleaning operations, while a monitoring dashboard helps improve maintenance and operational efficiency.
Facilities for persons with disabilities (OKU) are also provided to improve accessibility.
According to Nga, smart technology allows cleanliness and maintenance standards to be monitored more systematically, benefiting users while helping enhance Malaysia&rsquo;s image.
Government Plans BMW-i Toilets In Every State Capital
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/15d5668f9b3fc0a83d6941e960c852b3ed2b708dd66117fac59fb580ba33a119" />
Following the Putrajaya launch, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) plans to expand the initiative by providing at least one BMW-i smart toilet in every state capital.
Construction costs will be capped at RM1 million per facility, covering equipment, landscaping, viewing decks, infrastructure and smart systems. Planned locations include Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, George Town, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu and Johor Bahru.
Nga said Putrajaya was chosen as the starting point because Malaysia&rsquo;s administrative capital should set an example for public facilities nationwide.
However, automated systems alone cannot guarantee cleanliness. Regular maintenance and responsible behaviour from visitors remain essential to keeping these facilities in good condition.
More Than 11,800 Public And School Toilets Upgraded
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e67f84967240e0abc7a6168276610ef3a1ae37d872364fdf80334a6c7b8dfa38" />
The initiative forms part of a broader nationwide effort to improve public toilet hygiene. Since 2023, KPKT, local authorities and the Ministry of Education have upgraded 11,835 toilets to meet the Bersih, Menawan dan Wangi (BMW) standard.
The figure includes 1,592 public toilets managed by local authorities and facilities in 10,243 schools. These upgrades fall under the wider cleanliness programme and do not mean all the toilets have the same smart features as the Putrajaya facility.
Nga also revealed that 3,182, or 80.8%, of Malaysia&rsquo;s 3,940 public toilets managed by local authorities have achieved a rating of four stars or higher.
Better Public Toilets Ahead Of Visit Malaysia 2026&ndash;2027
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The BMW-i initiative supports preparations for Visit Malaysia 2026&ndash;2027, as the government seeks to improve the experience of domestic and international tourists.
Clean, accessible and well-maintained public toilets can influence visitors&rsquo; impressions of a destination, particularly at popular tourist attractions. Nga noted that public toilets reflect a country&rsquo;s cleanliness, culture and overall progress, pointing to Japan as an example of a country known for its well-maintained facilities.
The new Putrajaya toilet offers visitors to Dataran Putra and Putra Mosque a more technologically advanced option, with the planned expansion potentially bringing similar facilities to other major cities.
Toilet Of The Year Awards To Recognise Hygiene Efforts
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KPKT is also scheduled to hold the Toilet of the Year Award (TOTYA) 2026 ceremony on 20 October, recognising efforts to improve public toilet cleanliness and quality.
This year&rsquo;s awards cover eight categories: shopping complexes, petrol stations, hotels, rest and service areas (R&amp;Rs), restaurants, schools, places of worship and local authorities.
Nga said entries had increased from 345 in 2023 to 849 in 2026, representing a rise of approximately 146%.
Ultimately, Malaysia&rsquo;s first BMW-i smart public toilet marks another step towards modernising public facilities. While automated cleaning systems and environmental sensors can make maintenance more efficient, keeping toilets clean and comfortable still depends on consistent upkeep and consideration from everyone who uses them.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Even your toilet break is getting a tech upgrade in Malaysia.

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Malaysia’s First BMW-i Smart Public Toilet Opens In Putrajaya With Automatic Cleaning And Touchless Features

Former Malaysian prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has failed in his bid to suspend his 15-year prison sentence and RM11.38 billion fine in the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) corruption case while awaiting the outcome of his appeal.
On 14 October 2026, High Court judge Noor Ruwena Md Nurdin dismissed Najib&rsquo;s application, ruling that he had failed to establish the special circumstances required to justify a stay of execution.
Najib, 73, was convicted in December 2025 of four counts of abuse of power and 21 counts of money laundering involving approximately RM2.3 billion in 1MDB funds. He was sentenced to 15 years&rsquo; imprisonment and ordered to pay a RM11.38 billion fine, with additional financial penalties bringing the total cited by the defence to around RM13.47 billion.
He has appealed against his conviction and sentence.
Court Says Najib&rsquo;s Previous Conviction Is A Key Factor
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In delivering her decision, Justice Noor Ruwena said Najib could no longer be considered a first-time offender because his conviction in the separate SRC International case had been upheld by the Court of Appeal and Federal Court.
Although the offences in both cases occurred during overlapping periods, the judge said Najib&rsquo;s circumstances had changed since his earlier application for a stay in the SRC International case.
The court also considered the seriousness of the offences and the wider public interest, concluding that these factors outweighed the arguments presented by Najib&rsquo;s legal team.
The prosecution, led by Deputy Public Prosecutor Datuk Ahmad Akram Gharib, opposed the application, arguing that Najib had failed to demonstrate exceptional circumstances warranting a suspension of his sentence. It also maintained that the public interest in enforcing a valid conviction outweighed the concerns raised by the defence.
Najib&rsquo;s Health Issues Not Sufficient To Suspend Sentence
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/02c6f017fb7e2ac97005db5832dcbb16138872893ffbe3b0f6fee912920a2f4b" />
Najib&rsquo;s medical condition was one of the main grounds raised by his defence team.
Lead counsel Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah told the court that a medical report issued by Kajang Prison on 7 October identified 14 health conditions affecting his client, including coronary artery disease, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnoea, osteoarthritis, glaucoma and pre-diabetes.
The report reportedly listed 15 prescribed medications, with 14 taken daily, while Najib&rsquo;s vital signs required monitoring twice a day.
Shafee argued that Najib&rsquo;s age, existing health conditions and prolonged imprisonment could expose him to irreversible medical complications before his appeal was heard. He also maintained that time spent in prison could not be recovered if the appeal eventually succeeded.
However, Justice Noor Ruwena rejected the argument, saying the medical evidence indicated that Najib&rsquo;s healthcare needs were being adequately managed by government hospitals and medical specialists.
The prosecution similarly argued that there was insufficient evidence to show that Najib was unfit to remain in custody or that his medical needs could not be addressed through existing arrangements.
RM11.38 Billion Fine Does Not Justify A Stay
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Najib&rsquo;s defence also argued that the substantial financial penalties imposed in the 1MDB case exceeded his ability to pay and could result in additional imprisonment if left unpaid.
Shafee compared the fine with the penalties imposed in the SRC International case, arguing that the much larger amount strengthened the case for suspending the sentence.
However, the judge ruled that the size of the fine did not constitute special circumstances justifying a stay of the entire judgment.
She explained that payment was not required while Najib&rsquo;s avenues of appeal remained unresolved. The possibility of additional imprisonment for failing to pay the fine did not change the court&rsquo;s assessment of whether the legal requirements for a stay had been met.
The court also considered the defence&rsquo;s arguments regarding equality before the law under Article 8 of the Federal Constitution. Nevertheless, the judge maintained that Najib still had to satisfy the legal test for exceptional circumstances.
Najib To Appeal The Decision
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9ac729c2ec442e5fcf4d393b7761581e825c5f256e45fd00b571f8e96df7db7d" />
Following the ruling, Shafee confirmed that Najib&rsquo;s legal team would file a fresh application at the Court of Appeal to seek a stay of execution.
He expressed disappointment with the High Court&rsquo;s decision and argued that the main appeal could take years to conclude. The defence intends to prioritise the fresh application while continuing to challenge the conviction and sentence.
The dismissal of the stay application does not determine the outcome of Najib&rsquo;s main appeal against his 1MDB conviction.
What This Means For Najib&rsquo;s House Arrest Arrangement
The decision also comes amid developments involving Najib&rsquo;s separate SRC International sentence.
In September 2026, the Pardons Board announced a conditional arrangement allowing him to serve the remainder of his reduced SRC sentence under house arrest until 23 August 2028, subject to the applicable conditions, including payment of a RM50 million fine.
His lawyer has confirmed that the designated residence is Najib&rsquo;s home in Langgak Duta, Kuala Lumpur, where he would be able to stay with his family under the arrangement.
Shafee clarified that the rejection of the stay application in the 1MDB case does not itself cancel the separate house arrest order for the SRC International sentence.
Najib&rsquo;s 15-year 1MDB prison term is scheduled to begin after he completes the SRC sentence, currently expected to end in August 2028 under the conditional arrangement. Unless he secures a stay or there are further legal developments, the sentence will remain due to take effect under the existing court order.
The latest ruling marks another setback for Najib as he continues his legal challenge over the 1MDB scandal, one of Malaysia&rsquo;s most significant financial corruption cases.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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A legal battle that is far from over, as Najib prepares to take his fight to the Court of Appeal.

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Though he didn’t consume alcohol, he admits joining the champagne spray was a mistake.

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