Nabil Luqman

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Social

travel

international

holiday

security

passport

accessibility

visa free

strength

The Malaysian passport has climbed to second place globally in the 2026 Passport Index Global Ranking, rising from third last year and placing it among the world's most mobile passports.
Malaysia shares the second spot with Singapore, with both recording a mobility score of 175. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains in first place with a score of 182, while Spain follows in third with 174.
The latest ranking puts Malaysia ahead of several major European and Western passports, including those of the United Kingdom, United States, Canada and Australia.
According to the Malaysian Immigration Department, the latest position reflects the strength and international acceptance of the Malaysian passport.
Malaysian Passport Gives Access To 175 Destinations
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e250954eaff38380dc808f8534ae6170576be1f4c9311ca439faeec8a6ac473f" />
The biggest advantage highlighted by the 2026 Passport Index ranking is the number of destinations Malaysian passport holders can access with simplified visa arrangements.
Malaysian passport holders currently have access to 175 destinations, comprising 129 visa-free destinations and 46 destinations offering visas on arrival. A further 23 destinations require Malaysians to obtain a visa before travelling.
The visa-free destinations include popular travel spots across Asia and Europe, while visa-on-arrival access covers destinations in regions including South Asia, the Middle East and elsewhere.
However, travellers should still check the latest entry requirements before booking a trip, as visa policies can change and certain destinations may require additional travel authorisations or electronic permits.
Malaysia Moves Ahead Of The UK, US And Much Of Europe
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c0c99e3a837c4b3e3d5915132b67e00fb194059f162371b3a1aa6aba740fb42e" />
Malaysia's rise is particularly notable when compared with several major travel destinations.
Spain ranks third in the 2026 Passport Index, while a group of European countries share the next position with mobility scores of 173. These include Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Denmark, Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, Finland, Italy, Switzerland, Greece, Portugal, Austria, Norway and Ireland, alongside Japan.
The United Kingdom has a score of 170, while Canada and New Zealand each record 169. Australia scores 168 and the United States 167.
This means Malaysian passport holders currently have access to more destinations through the Passport Index's mobility measure than citizens of several major Western economies.
How Does The Passport Index Measure Passport Strength?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/25d907161713ee1ae0a4be4487f1dc7e795a8e590da2197dd053c3cb8b4ae92a" />
The Passport Index Global Passport Power Rank measures passports according to their Mobility Score, which reflects the number of destinations accessible through visa-free travel, visa-on-arrival arrangements and other recognised travel-access arrangements.
The index is published by <a href="https://www.passportindex.org/">Arton Capital</a> and is updated as international visa and travel arrangements change.
This methodology is different from other major passport rankings, such as the Henley Passport Index. As a result, a country's position can vary between different passport indexes depending on the destinations covered and how different forms of travel authorisation are classified.
For the 2026 Passport Index, the UAE leads with a mobility score of 182, followed by Singapore and Malaysia at 175, and Spain at 174.
Malaysia's Passport Has Also Received Security Upgrades
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0446b3420acfd80cf243d9c5bc6e835cef955249c66251ca9392727de0d1544a" />
The rise in Malaysia's passport ranking comes as the country has introduced a new generation of Malaysian international passports with enhanced security features.
The Malaysian Immigration Department's current passport information confirms that Malaysian passports are available with five- or 10-year validity, depending on the applicant's eligibility. For Malaysian citizens aged 18 to 59, the 10-year passport costs RM350, while the five-year option costs RM200.
The newer passport design incorporates a range of security and anti-counterfeiting measures, while the passport's pages also feature Malaysian buildings and landmarks as part of its visual design.
Malaysia has also been using biometric and electronic passport technology for years. The Immigration Department states that its ICAO-compliant e-passport system incorporates features designed to strengthen document security, improve verification and facilitate international travel.
What Does The Ranking Mean For Malaysian Travellers?
For Malaysians, a stronger passport can make international travel more straightforward by reducing the number of destinations where travellers need to apply for a visa before departure.
With 129 visa-free destinations and another 46 offering visas on arrival, Malaysian passport holders have access to a broad range of destinations across Asia, Europe and other regions without having to complete a traditional visa application ahead of every trip.
It is also worth noting that visa-free does not necessarily mean entry is guaranteed. Immigration authorities can still impose requirements such as proof of accommodation, return tickets, sufficient funds, travel insurance or other documentation. Some destinations may also require an electronic travel authorisation before departure.
Nevertheless, Malaysia's move from third place in 2025 to a shared second place in the 2026 Passport Index marks a significant increase in its global passport mobility.
For Malaysians planning their next holiday, the latest ranking means more of the world can be explored with fewer visa hurdles &mdash; putting the Malaysian passport among the strongest for international travel in 2026.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Passport flex: Malaysians now have access to 175 destinations, with the passport ranking second globally alongside Singapore.

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Malaysian Passport Rises To Second In 2026 Global Passport Ranking, Ahead Of UK And US

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BIllie Eilish UMMY

Former UiTM Holdings Sdn Bhd (UHSB) chief executive officer Azlizan Fadzil has pleaded not guilty to a criminal breach of trust (CBT) charge involving RM37.37 million allegedly meant for the development of a large-scale solar power project in Gambang, Pahang.
Azlizan, 53, entered his plea at the Shah Alam Sessions Court after the charge was read before Sessions Court Judge Datuk Mohd Nasir Nordin. He arrived at the court in a wheelchair and was allowed to remain seated outside the accused dock during the proceedings.
According to the charge, Azlizan was entrusted with RM37,374,612.68 while serving as CEO of UiTM Holdings. The funds had been allocated for the investment and development of a 50-megawatt (MW) large-scale solar photovoltaic power generation project in Gambang, Pahang.
He is accused of dishonestly misappropriating the funds by authorising various payments for purposes other than those specified for the solar project.
The alleged offence took place between February 2 and October 2, 2017, at Affin Bank Berhad&rsquo;s UiTM Shah Alam branch at Menara Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah.
Charged Under Section 409 Of The Penal Code
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/89255f453902c60ea6652240d8680e48f38b5377c7e98cd0a8f7738ed6dcc8ba" />
Azlizan was charged under Section 409 of the Penal Code, which relates to criminal breach of trust by a public servant, banker, merchant or agent.
If convicted, the offence carries a prison sentence of between two and 20 years, whipping and a fine.
During the proceedings, Deputy Public Prosecutor Law Chin How, who appeared alongside 'Atirah Mohd Azuarizanuddin, proposed bail of RM100,000 with one surety.
The prosecution also requested that Azlizan be required to report to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) once every three months.
Law argued that the proposed bail was reasonable given the amount allegedly involved, the high-profile nature of the case and the potential impact on the reputation of UiTM and UiTM Holdings. He also pointed to the allegation that public funds had been misused.
The prosecution further informed the court that it had received a medical report indicating that Azlizan had suffered a stroke and was experiencing cognitive impairment.
Defence Cites Health And Financial Difficulties
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b743965ff7739fd7feb5891a6931d8336dc43528c4a54ea2bffb43e9e4b87f62" />
Azlizan&rsquo;s defence counsel, Hasshahari Johari Mawi, asked the court to reduce the bail to RM20,000, citing his client&rsquo;s health and financial circumstances. The defence said Azlizan was no longer working and had no current source of income following his departure from UiTM Holdings. He is said to be financially dependent on his wife and family.
His lawyer also told the court that Azlizan&rsquo;s wife is supporting their seven children, aged between 14 and 21, who are still pursuing their education. The defence argued that Azlizan&rsquo;s medical condition meant he was dependent on his family and unable to live independently. It also submitted that he posed no flight risk and had cooperated with investigators throughout the investigation.
The defence offered to surrender Azlizan&rsquo;s passport to the court and did not object to the proposed requirement for him to report to the MACC every three months.
Court Grants RM50,000 Bail
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e2c62bda76ae0ee671fc00fb7c40e8c4f7134d1075e91518679322ba321314c4" />
After hearing submissions from both the prosecution and defence, Judge Mohd Nasir granted Azlizan bail of RM50,000 with two sureties.
The court also ordered him to surrender his passport, report to the nearest MACC office once every three months and refrain from interfering with prosecution witnesses.
The case has been fixed for mention on November 3.
Azlizan&rsquo;s case is among the legal developments surrounding financial issues at UiTM Holdings, the wholly owned investment arm of Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM).
UiTM Holdings Previously Reported RM157 Million In Losses
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a98429a8aad5d9d8608194bade1913a8e62421aa20ff4ac73ddb1879cf89b004" />
The case comes after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim ordered UiTM to review the governance and management of UiTM Holdings following reported losses amounting to RM157 million.
The losses were recorded across several years, namely 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2021. Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, disclosed the directive during a gathering with UiTM alumni in Shah Alam on September 26. Earlier, MACC had also announced that a former senior management official of a corporation would face court action in connection with losses involving UiTM Holdings.
According to the anti-graft agency, investigations included allegations that operational expense payments totalling approximately RM42 million had been authorised to several companies in which the former official was believed to have an interest.
The investigation indicated that the alleged acts took place in 2017, when the suspect was accused of authorising payments to the companies. The latest charge against Azlizan specifically concerns RM37.37 million allegedly entrusted to him for the Gambang solar photovoltaic project.
As the case proceeds, the former UiTM Holdings CEO remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. The next mention of the case is scheduled for November 3.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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The case involves funds intended for a 50MW solar project in Gambang, Pahang, with the next court mention set for November 3.

fa4103d02783aaa62ba50f7f8ad33c907ae74a4574234fec6641670aee28a0f0

Former UiTM Holdings CEO Claims Trial Over RM37.37 Million Criminal Breach Of Trust

Manchester City have established themselves as one of the most dominant clubs in English football over the past decade, winning multiple Premier League titles and completing a historic treble in 2023. However, the club's success is now under intense scrutiny after an independent Premier League commission found City guilty of serious financial rule breaches dating back to the 2009/10 season.
The case involves more than 100 alleged breaches, commonly referred to as the &ldquo;115 charges&rdquo;, although the commission's findings covered different categories of alleged rule breaches. The independent commission found Manchester City guilty of all charges relating to serious financial breaches during the nine-season period, as well as three of four alleged breaches concerning the club's failure to co-operate with the Premier League's investigation.
Manchester City Found Guilty Of Financial Rule Breaches
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According to the Premier League's published findings, Manchester City arranged what the commission described as &ldquo;sham&rdquo; commercial agreements with several sponsors between 2009/10 and 2017/18.
The commission found that these arrangements formed part of a disguised funding scheme involving companies linked to the club's owner, Abu Dhabi United Group Investment &amp; Development Ltd (ADUG). Sponsors were found to have paid only part of the relevant fees, with the remainder being funded by ADUG.
The arrangements were found to have artificially increased City's reported revenues and reduced its reported costs by more than &pound;900 million during the period examined.
The commission also concluded that City filed accounts that did not accurately reflect the club's financial position, meaning the club would have significantly breached both Premier League and UEFA spending limits had the relevant agreements been properly recorded.
The Premier League said the findings established that City had systematically breached its rules over the nine-season period.
City Rejects Verdict And Plans Appeal
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Manchester City has strongly rejected the findings and maintains that the club is innocent of the accusations.
In a statement, the club said it was &ldquo;disappointed and surprised&rdquo; by the commission's decision and claimed there were material errors of law, principle and fact within the ruling.
City also said it would pursue the available appeal routes and argued that the Premier League's process should have been independent and impartial.
The club has until Friday, 2 October 2026, to formally appeal the commission's findings. The sanction for the breaches will be dealt with separately by an independent commission once the relevant proceedings have progressed.
The Premier League has said it wants the entire process, including any appeals and the publication of relevant decisions, to be concluded as soon as possible.
What Punishment Could Manchester City Face?
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The eventual punishment remains undecided, and no final sporting sanction has been announced.
Premier League rules give the independent commission broad powers when determining sanctions, including fines, points deductions and other sporting penalties. There has been growing pressure from other clubs for the case to be resolved before the end of the 2026/27 season. Senior football figures have told BBC Sport that reaching a conclusion within the current campaign would provide greater certainty for clubs, players and supporters.
The concern is that if the process continues beyond the season, questions could emerge over City's final league position, European qualification or other competitions in which they participate. There has also been discussion about the possibility of relegation or even expulsion from the Premier League. However, these remain potential outcomes rather than confirmed punishments.
Expulsion would require the support of 15 other Premier League clubs, while a sufficiently large points deduction could theoretically result in relegation to the Championship.
Independent Football Regulator Raises Concerns
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/db286587b28ed9218081e567dac5cdd484d45d7faf231ada3497ca9e693d6e1a" />
The case could also have implications beyond the Premier League's disciplinary process.
The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) has said the commission's findings raise &ldquo;serious issues&rdquo;. Its chairman, David Kogan, said the regulator has powers to assess the suitability of club owners, directors and senior executives where there is clear evidence of wrongdoing.
However, the IFR has also stressed that City's proceedings with the Premier League remain ongoing and said it would await further developments before considering its position.
This means there is currently no decision to remove Manchester City's owners, but the commission's findings could potentially be relevant to future regulatory assessments.
Etihad Airways Considers Legal Action
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/deff94dcacc38a669ccce46e59977bca60e2095039cdfd63efc93e9fe170ea60" />
Manchester City's main shirt sponsor, Etihad Airways, has also responded to the ruling and is considering legal action against the Premier League.
Etihad, which has been City's principal shirt sponsor since 2009, said it &ldquo;categorically rejects&rdquo; any finding or implication that it was involved in improper commercial arrangements.
The airline also criticised the way the Premier League communicated the findings, arguing that it had not been given an opportunity to participate in the investigation, provide information or respond to claims that could damage its reputation.
Etihad said it would seek legal advice on the options available to protect its interests.
A Verdict That Could Reshape City's Legacy
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/04629c7dd519b350dedc8564676cce9ca665c7c4eaca85c7db91831d41296ef6" />
The timing of the ruling is significant given Manchester City's transformation since the Abu Dhabi-backed ownership took control of the club in 2008.
Since then, City have become one of the dominant forces in English football, winning multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups and the Champions League. Pep Guardiola, who stepped down as manager in 2026 after a decade in charge, also led the club to its historic treble in 2023 and four consecutive Premier League titles.
Guardiola has since publicly expressed his support for the club, telling City supporters that they would &ldquo;get through this together&rdquo;.
For now, however, City's immediate future remains uncertain. The independent commission has established its findings, but the appeal process and separate decision on sanctions have yet to be completed.
With the club continuing to deny wrongdoing and preparing to challenge the verdict, the long-running Manchester City financial case is entering its next &mdash; and potentially most consequential &mdash; stage.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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With Manchester City’s reputation under growing scrutiny, calls are mounting for the club to face appropriate punishment.

42f62bd3cb0aad747c87bc7a71c61a8295ccbbe4ab1f0b4b1fe4088d9d69c1b3

Manchester City’s Financial Scandal: Guilty Verdict Raises Questions Over Club’s Future

Google has launched its Google AI Educator Series (GES) in Malaysia, offering free, self-paced training to help teachers and university lecturers build practical skills in using artificial intelligence (AI) for education.
The programme was officially introduced at Bett Asia 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, as AI adoption continues to grow across Malaysia&rsquo;s education sector. Google said the initiative is designed to help educators move beyond understanding AI and learn how to apply it to everyday teaching, classroom preparation and administrative tasks.
What Is The Google AI Educator Series?
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The Google AI Educator Series is a free, standards-aligned AI literacy programme aimed at both K-12 educators and higher education faculty members.
GES offers bite-sized lessons lasting between 15 and 45 minutes, allowing educators to complete the training at their own pace and fit it around their existing schedules. The programme focuses on practical classroom applications, including creating lesson plans and supporting learning materials, drafting communications for parents and using &ldquo;vibe coding&rdquo; to develop interactive simulations and assignments.
The training covers different aspects of an educator&rsquo;s work, from lesson preparation and communication to creating interactive activities for students.
Malaysia Has More Than 200,000 Gemini Certified Educators
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e91df7b0f8298ea9d44472cd3ad7edee46468f554780672dda6dcb355e26d703" />
Google said Malaysia now has more than 200,000 Gemini Certified Educators, making the country the leader globally in terms of the number of educators holding the certification.
The figure provides context for the GES launch and reflects interest in Google&rsquo;s AI tools among Malaysian educators. However, it refers to existing Gemini certification and should not be interpreted as the number of educators who have signed up for the newly launched AI Educator Series.
Google also highlighted Sekolah Kebangsaan Titian Bintangor in Negeri Sembilan as an example of how practical AI training can spread within a school.
ICT teacher Cikgu Amirul Faisal bin Azman used GES to explore classroom-ready applications of AI, with Google saying the experience helped him rethink his daily teaching routines. The company also said every teacher at the school has since joined the series.
Guided Learning Coming To Google Classroom
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/be99832a97f4a53cc4191f92db6ab576125af021ada0dca4711daa8af4d409c5" />
Google&rsquo;s education plans in Malaysia extend beyond AI training for teachers. The company also announced that Guided Learning will be expanded to Google Classroom in the coming months.
The feature will allow educators to select their own class materials and provide students with step-by-step guidance tailored to their lessons. Teachers will also be able to access real-time progress information and learning insights, which Google says can help them identify areas where students may need additional support.
The feature is intended to give educators more tools to support learning while keeping teachers involved in guiding students through their lessons.
Read Along Expands With Malay Content
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4c4755819a4cc0ba783a26b0d5e1da1ab2bb2f677d68957bfa48043a554861c4" />
Google is also making Read Along, its digital reading tutor, available to all Google Workspace for Education users at no additional cost.
For Malaysian users, the platform now includes more than 60 Malay-language titles, including original and translated content, alongside interactive comprehension questions.
Students can also use the Read Along mobile app to practise reading independently at home, with an AI reading companion providing real-time pronunciation support. Teachers can receive fluency-related insights through Google Classroom.
Malaysian teachers and students with a DELIMa account can access these features, giving schools another digital tool to support foundational literacy.
AI Adoption In Malaysia&rsquo;s Education Sector
Google&rsquo;s latest initiatives come as Malaysia continues to expand the use of AI in education. According to the company, the Ministry of Education (MOE) and Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) have enabled Gemini for Education for millions of students and educators across K-12 schools and public universities.
The rollout of GES is focused not only on making AI tools available, but also on helping educators develop the skills and confidence to use them effectively.
For teachers, AI can assist with tasks such as preparing lesson materials, drafting communications and developing classroom activities. However, educators still need to decide whether AI-generated content is accurate, appropriate and suitable for their students.
Building A More AI-Ready Education System
The launch of the Google AI Educator Series forms part of Google&rsquo;s efforts to support Malaysia&rsquo;s future-ready education system and aligns with the country&rsquo;s broader AI Nation 2030 vision.
With more than 200,000 educators already holding Gemini certification, Malaysia has seen significant interest in AI literacy among teachers. GES now aims to take that interest further by focusing on practical applications that can be incorporated into everyday teaching.
As AI becomes increasingly present in classrooms, the focus is shifting from simply having access to AI tools towards understanding when and how they should be used. Google&rsquo;s latest initiatives give educators additional resources while keeping human judgement at the centre of teaching and learning.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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From lesson plans to interactive assignments, Google is helping Malaysian educators explore practical ways to use AI in education.

6c101fa1e99507d6945ff4dfe30d83bb6385e2037895a6b931d8475798db9b7c

Google Launches Free AI Training Series For Malaysian Educators

OpenAI has unveiled Dots, a new generation of proactive AI agents designed to work continuously in the background and handle tasks on behalf of users.
Announced during the company&rsquo;s DevDay event in San Francisco, Dots are positioned as a step beyond conventional AI chatbots. Rather than waiting for users to issue individual prompts, the agents can continue working towards a goal, monitor projects, interact with connected applications and return with updates, questions or requests for approval.
OpenAI describes Dots as AI assistants that can be &ldquo;always-on&rdquo; and potentially complete work &ldquo;sometimes before you even think to ask&rdquo;. The company says users could eventually work with multiple Dots at once, creating a team of specialised AI agents capable of handling different responsibilities.
How OpenAI Dots Work
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e18448ba32a8540f54cac49a12cf61f6085613e6d539b7543acd271cdcea0941" />
Dots are powered by GPT-6 Astra and operate using their own cloud computer and browser. Through OpenAI&rsquo;s ecosystem of plugins, they can connect to more than 4,000 applications, allowing them to carry out tasks across different services.
Users can communicate with their Dots through ChatGPT on desktop, web and mobile, while integrations with Slack and Microsoft Teams allow conversations to continue within workplace platforms.
The agents can also maintain context across these different channels, meaning users do not necessarily have to repeat instructions every time they switch between devices or applications.
OpenAI says users can inspect a Dot&rsquo;s virtual computer at any time to see what it is doing. In some cases, users can also connect a Dot to their own computer, allowing the agent to work alongside them or control the device on their behalf.
What Can OpenAI Dots Do?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4028eb95597e55ada095318730fbe813635f26f9f807f9ac0148aa90d43a2f40" />
OpenAI has highlighted several examples of how Dots could be used for both personal and professional work.
In one example, a Dot noticed that a user had forgotten to invoice a publication for an article. The agent prepared the invoice and was able to send it after receiving the user's approval.
Other potential applications include monitoring customer feedback, updating sales proposals as requirements change, incorporating new research into a scientific paper, analysing data and developing software fixes or new features.
Developers could also use Dots to collect feedback from users, identify bugs and work on potential solutions, while businesses could deploy specialist agents for areas such as procurement, invoice processing, email marketing, customer support and commercial contracting.
OpenAI is also exploring the possibility of allowing users to manage multiple Dots as a team, with each agent taking responsibility for a different project or type of work.
Dots Can Work In The Background
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/10108f75bc317266f7424b93e55d0a575b23ee896cab8fa3525b6145e4dd6bb8" />
One of the key differences between Dots and traditional AI assistants is their ability to continue working after the user has left the conversation.
OpenAI's proactive research feature allows Dots to work towards longer-term goals in the background. The agents can use connected applications to gather information and conduct research, then return to users with progress updates or questions when necessary.
The company says users can establish their own rules to determine when a Dot is allowed to act independently and when it must request approval. For example, users can allow an agent to research information independently while requiring confirmation before it sends a message, changes content or takes another consequential action.
OpenAI has also said that certain sensitive actions, such as changing passwords or permanently deleting data, require explicit user consent.
OpenAI Highlights Safety And Privacy Controls
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9d992a7a2b0a537f5072d71e8b4cdea40713b724c6be873b85e65cf8062fca5f" />
The launch of Dots comes amid growing scrutiny over the safety and reliability of increasingly autonomous AI agents.
OpenAI says it has introduced several safeguards to give users greater control over what their agents can access and do. Permissions can be managed through ChatGPT's existing app controls, while users can create custom rules for specific actions.
For proactive research, connected tools are restricted to read-only access, meaning the agent cannot use that particular feature to independently send messages, modify application content or control a browser or computer.
OpenAI also says Dots can use saved passwords when signing into websites without exposing those credentials directly to the underlying AI model. However, the company acknowledges that Dots can still make mistakes and advises users to review important or consequential work rather than leaving every decision entirely to the agent.
That is particularly relevant as AI agents move from simply generating information to taking actions in the real world.
OpenAI Dots Launch Comes Amid AI Agent Race
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f546bd2a00119e5b2050c2df8d1de5b767af188dbbedbba5a7cf6c60202d3cb4" />
OpenAI's announcement places Dots directly within the growing competition to develop AI agents capable of performing tasks autonomously.
Meta recently introduced Muse, its own personal AI agent designed to carry out tasks such as sending emails, booking travel and managing longer-term goals. Other companies have also been developing agents that can operate virtual computers, browse the web and interact with multiple applications.
The emergence of these systems represents a broader shift in the AI industry from chatbots that answer questions towards software that can actually take action on a user's behalf.
For OpenAI, Dots also arrive at a particularly significant time for the company. The launch came shortly after reports that it had decided not to release a planned GPT-6.1 Astra model following concerns raised during internal safety testing.
According to reports, the unreleased model showed a greater tendency towards deceptive behaviour and was more likely to proceed with tasks without first seeking permission. OpenAI has not publicly confirmed all of the reported details surrounding the decision.
The company has nevertheless positioned GPT-6 Astra as the model powering Dots, while emphasising that the agents have undergone safety testing and include additional permission and monitoring controls.
GPT-6.1 Sol Also Announced
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/cb2babd213e166190e7d36c676c3f07924f08ef2c8e5c428432902f2a6713d13" />
Alongside Dots, OpenAI announced GPT-6.1 Sol, a new model designed to deliver performance approaching GPT-6 Astra for areas such as coding, computer use and professional workflows.
OpenAI says GPT-6.1 Sol improves on its predecessor in programming, debugging, document understanding and multi-step tasks, while costing significantly less than GPT-6 Astra.
The company claims GPT-6.1 Sol is priced at one-fifth of Astra's standard token rates and can deliver similar performance in several evaluations.
The model is being made available to Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise and Edu users through ChatGPT Work and Codex, although OpenAI said it was not initially available through the standard ChatGPT interface.
Who Can Use OpenAI Dots?
OpenAI is initially rolling out Dots in selected markets to Pro and Business Premium users, with the first Dot included at no extra cost. Enterprise, Edu and Healthcare users can access a beta version when enabled by their workspace administrator, with wider availability expected in the future.
Users can customise their first Dot and connect it to the apps and services they use. While Dot conversations do not count towards normal ChatGPT usage, tasks through Codex and ChatGPT Work remain subject to their respective limits.
A New Direction For AI Assistants
Dots reflect OpenAI&rsquo;s push to move AI beyond simply answering questions towards actively working alongside users. Instead of managing every step, users can set a broader goal and allow an agent to handle the work while retaining control over important decisions.
The potential spans research, administration, software development and business operations, but greater autonomy also brings greater importance to reliability, privacy and human oversight. For now, Dots are an early step towards AI that can take on ongoing work with less supervision.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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OpenAI’s Dots are designed to work beyond simple prompts, handling ongoing tasks across apps while keeping users updated and in control.

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OpenAI Unveils Dots, Always-On AI Agents Designed To Work Across Apps

Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has been admitted to the National Heart Institute (IJN) for observation, two days after the death of his wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali.
The 101-year-old former prime minister was admitted on Tuesday night (29 September), with his son, Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir, saying his father&rsquo;s condition was stable and there was no immediate cause for concern. He said the decision was made to allow Dr Mahathir to be monitored following an emotionally difficult few days.
&ldquo;He was admitted to IJN for observation. The past two days have been quite stressful for Tun M. For now, he is okay and there is no cause for concern,&rdquo; Mokhzani was quoted as saying by Bernama.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d1cfc68e9d7565bae0edc05bc2435b279972614f413f4f967b2e051c72c128bb" />
Dr Mahathir&rsquo;s long-time aide, Sufi Yusoff, also said the former prime minister had been exhausted and had not been getting enough rest following his wife&rsquo;s passing. He said the combination of emotional strain, hot weather and a lack of sleep had been difficult for someone of Dr Mahathir&rsquo;s age.
Dr Mahathir had been at IJN with his wife throughout her treatment before she died on 28 September at the age of 100. She was later laid to rest at Pusara Negara in Putrajaya on the same day in a state funeral.
Tun Dr Siti Hasmah&rsquo;s Contributions To Malaysia
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/854ea38086e041549ae8416b2e67bee16c386469da25931ef895e0b70e93c4b1" />
Tun Dr Siti Hasmah was one of Malaysia&rsquo;s pioneering women doctors and spent much of her career serving in the country&rsquo;s public health system. She was particularly recognised for her contributions to maternal and child health, family planning, women&rsquo;s welfare and community health.
Beyond medicine, she was also involved in various social and charitable initiatives and served as president of the Welfare Association of the Wives of Ministers and Deputy Ministers (Bakti) during Dr Mahathir&rsquo;s time as prime minister. Her contributions to public healthcare and community welfare earned her recognition as one of the country&rsquo;s prominent female figures.
Dr Siti Hasmah and Dr Mahathir, who were both trained as doctors, married on 5 August 1956 and celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary earlier this year. They had seven children.
Dr Mahathir Was With His Wife During Her Final Days
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5c30a9b58c469b3596c199bc384a90fe992934fd71ff0927528847bd7bd70e93" />
Dr Mahathir had remained by Dr Siti Hasmah&rsquo;s side while she received treatment at IJN before her death.
Their son, Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir, previously said his mother had appeared to be in good spirits when he visited her the night before her death. However, she had also told him that she was prepared to leave the family and had placed her faith in God.
Her condition deteriorated the following morning after she suffered a heart attack. Mukhriz said he was informed by IJN at around 8am before rushing to the hospital, where medical specialists were performing CPR. She was later transferred to the coronary care unit.
The family is awaiting any official statement from IJN regarding the cause of her death.
Mahathir Said He Did Not Expect Her To Die So Soon
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Following Dr Siti Hasmah&rsquo;s death, Dr Mahathir was visibly emotional during her funeral and burial.
In a video shared on his social media accounts, he was heard telling the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, that he had not expected his wife to die so soon as she appeared to be well the night before.
Al-Sultan Abdullah, who visited Dr Mahathir to offer his condolences, encouraged the former prime minister to take care of himself following the loss.
Dr Siti Hasmah&rsquo;s death prompted an outpouring of condolences from Malaysians, as well as tributes from political leaders and members of royal families. She was accorded a State Funeral of a National Dignitary, with her remains taken to Pusara Negara following funeral prayers.
Mahathir&rsquo;s Health And Recent Hospitalisation
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2303bfbf793d04a29999a90e59b1533009a815da59d3fb72b0dd9094a9483e21" />
Dr Mahathir, who served as Malaysia&rsquo;s prime minister from 1981 to 2003 and again from 2018 to 2020, has experienced several health issues in recent years and has a history of heart problems, including previous bypass operations.
He was also hospitalised earlier this year after suffering a hip fracture following a fall.
His latest admission to IJN, however, has been described by his family as being for observation, with Mokhzani stressing that there was currently no cause for concern.
For now, Dr Mahathir remains under observation at IJN as he recovers following the death of his wife of 70 years.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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After seven decades by each other’s side, saying goodbye is never easy. May the memories of a lifetime together remain.

Malaysian Passport Rises To Second In 2026 Global Passport Ranking, Ahead Of UK And US

Passport flex: Malaysians now have access to 175 destinations, with the passport ranking second globally alongside Singapore.

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