Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

financial

partnership

Sepang

racing

motorsports

race weekend

obstacle

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.

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

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BIllie Eilish UMMY

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
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fe7c6c49ce3003ed5fe020f83879facf4b719ddd46ec9d5b60c46f41d9fe2da2" />
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.

b3f1e8675b245808ba27cc3040fba13888a408160f5b815b5734662d4910b591

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
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a62059580fd20c6aec18ab681b357ff2d53f82c2de9cdcc850bb477e9464c2d9" />
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
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2077f4a58dc4f09bfc5c319b4ab3e6c6779e98b08944525b61772e49128e78f1" />
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.

22eca90b942679073364e62eb5fab07bcddafab7c2b94381cf4c414fbbf72303

Najib Razak Fails To Suspend 15-Year Jail Sentence And RM11.4 Billion Fine In 1MDB Case

A 24-year-old driver of a BYD Seal has pleaded not guilty to three traffic offences, including causing the death of a five-year-old girl in a six-vehicle crash along Jalan Kuching, Kuala Lumpur, on 10 October 2026.
Raeven Goh Wey Haur appeared before Magistrate Aliaa Anwar at the Kuala Lumpur Magistrates&rsquo; Court on 15 October, where he denied all three charges brought against him under the Road Transport Act 1987.
The case attracted significant public attention after footage of the collision circulated widely on social media, showing the electric sedan allegedly colliding with other vehicles before leaving the scene.
BYD Driver Faces Three Charges Under Road Transport Act
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8fd788e8ccbd65ccbc6a415e2e6860e6622b7436dc3bcbd2fe932d73aebd46c1" />
Goh faces three charges relating to the fatal accident, which occurred at approximately 3.44pm as traffic was moving slowly along Jalan Kuching towards Segambut.
The first charge, under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, accuses him of causing the death of five-year-old Asiah Ahmad Syahir through reckless or dangerous driving. If convicted, the offence carries a prison sentence of between five and 10 years, a fine of RM20,000 to RM50,000, and disqualification from holding a driving licence for at least five years.
He also pleaded not guilty to a second charge under Section 42(1) of the same Act, which concerns reckless and dangerous driving that endangers other road users. Upon conviction, this offence carries a possible prison term of up to five years, a fine ranging from RM5,000 to RM15,000, and potential disqualification from holding a driving licence.
The third charge, under Section 52(1), concerns an alleged failure to stop and report the accident. A conviction under the relevant provisions carries a maximum fine of RM2,000, imprisonment of up to six months, or both.
The penalties stated above apply only if the accused is convicted. Goh has pleaded not guilty to all three charges, and the case will proceed through the court process.
Court Grants RM36,000 Bail With Conditions
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1d5da6361f1fa02973472bee5ad4063a4caf699ed9e95fa4c58a193b00b260c5" />
After hearing submissions from both the prosecution and defence, the magistrate granted Goh bail of RM36,000, with one surety covering all three charges. His father reportedly paid the bail, which was completed at around 11.30am.
The prosecution had sought RM50,000 bail and requested that Goh surrender his passport and have his driving licence suspended while the case was ongoing. The defence, meanwhile, argued for a lower bail amount, submitting that Goh was not a flight risk and that his family had cooperated with the police investigation.
The court ultimately ordered Goh to surrender his passport and suspended his driving licence pending the disposal of the case.
Goh had been arrested at approximately 11.30am on 14 October, shortly after being discharged from a private hospital in Damansara, where he had received treatment for a concussion sustained in the crash. He was subsequently taken to the Dang Wangi district police headquarters before being brought to court.
The court has fixed 19 November for the next mention of the case.
How The Six-Vehicle Crash Happened
<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-status="hidden">
Enam Kenderaan Terbabit Nahas Di Jalan Kuching Seorang kanak-kanak perempuan berusia lima tahun maut selepas kereta Perodua Bezza dinaiki bersama bapanya terlibat dalam kemalangan membabitkan lima kereta dan sebuah motosikal di Jalan Kuching, di sini, kira-kira pukul 3.44 petang semalam.
&mdash; Malaysia Gazette (@MalaysiaGazette) <a href="https://x.com/MalaysiaGazette/status/2109469196098961568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The fatal collision took place at around 3.44pm on 10 October and involved five cars and a motorcycle.
Based on preliminary police investigations and reports of the incident, the BYD Seal allegedly struck the rear of a Perodua Bezza travelling along Jalan Kuching towards Segambut. The impact caused the Bezza to spin out of control and move across the road.
The collision also involved a motorcycle before the Bezza reportedly crashed into three other vehicles: a Nissan Almera, a Toyota Alphard and a Perodua Myvi. The incident resulted in a total of six vehicles and one motorcycle being involved in the pile-up.
The crash footage subsequently went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention to the circumstances surrounding the collision and the driver's alleged actions after the impact.
Police later identified and arrested the BYD driver after locating him at the private medical facility where he had sought treatment.
Five-Year-Old Victim Dies From Severe Head Injuries
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/633058a73602f6838a99da2e381a931249fc655e3fab290108b77e98470fb5d7" />
Asiah was travelling in the rear seat of the Perodua Bezza with her family when the collision occurred. She sustained severe head injuries and was pronounced dead while being taken to Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL).
Her 30-year-old father, who was driving the Bezza, suffered an injury to his right hand. The 33-year-old motorcyclist involved in the collision also sustained head injuries. Reports indicated that the occupants or drivers of the other three cars were not injured.
The tragedy has left Asiah's family seeking justice as the legal proceedings begin. Her parents were present in the public gallery during Goh's court appearance but declined to comment to the media.
With the accused having pleaded not guilty, the case is expected to continue as the court considers the charges brought against him.
The incident has also renewed public attention on road safety and the serious consequences that dangerous driving can have for motorists, passengers and other road users.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Behind every vehicle is a responsibility to keep others safe.

bd2d5b36d2ddf8ebf7f4f85ed0c95b7a6e70d4d0c05506004b227bad5331ceca

BYD Driver Claims Trial To Three Charges Over Fatal Jalan Kuching Crash That Killed Five-Year-Old Girl

Artificial intelligence company Anthropic has warned that small AI models could be only months away from developing the ability to replicate themselves across internet-connected devices, raising new concerns about the future of cybersecurity. The potential threat, described as an &ldquo;AI worm&rdquo;, could allow malicious AI systems to spread from one compromised device to another without human intervention.
In research published on its official blog, Anthropic explained that these AI worms could target everyday Internet of Things (IoT) devices, including smart televisions, refrigerators, ovens, security cameras and automatic vacuum cleaners. Unlike traditional malware, which typically follows predefined instructions, an AI-powered worm could potentially identify unfamiliar devices, adapt to different hardware and establish itself on new machines.
The warning comes as technology companies increasingly integrate AI capabilities directly into consumer electronics, cars and other connected devices. While this development brings greater convenience and computing power, it could also create new vulnerabilities if manufacturers fail to implement adequate security measures.
How Could AI Worms Spread Without Data Centres?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/78956b02c5828ce5d35788ed7284da3c16ab7086b3ca9901c5417a0a29b15afc" />
One of the most concerning aspects of Anthropic's research is that these AI worms may not require access to expensive data centres or powerful computing infrastructure to operate.
Instead, they could potentially use the combined processing power of compromised consumer devices. Many smart home products already contain chips capable of handling certain AI tasks locally, making them potential targets if their security protections are weak.
Anthropic demonstrated this concept by running a 26-billion-parameter AI model across 15 inexpensive, off-brand Android TV boxes, each costing approximately US$55 (around RM230). The experiment showed that multiple low-cost devices could work together to run a model, although the demonstration alone does not establish that an autonomous worm could successfully spread across real-world networks.
Larger AI models could also be divided into smaller components, known as shards, with each component running on a separate device. These machines could then communicate with one another to support the model collectively.
According to Anthropic, its evaluations found that a nine-billion-parameter model could get AI inference running on eight of the nine hardware types tested. The researchers also found that models with 30 billion parameters or fewer could already perform many of the individual steps needed for replication, although completing the entire process reliably remained challenging.
The company suggested that improvements in smaller AI models could make autonomous replication increasingly feasible in the near future.
Why Would Smart TVs, Cameras And Kitchen Appliances Be Targets?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/de8d328965342865e7e91e075006b3ff12fad6105716b7a7c91b79c53e93b541" />
Anthropic identified home and small-business IoT devices as potential early targets because they are often connected to the internet but lack the robust security measures found in more sophisticated computing systems.
Devices such as smart TVs, security cameras, video-conferencing equipment, thermostats and kitchen appliances may also have limited processing capabilities. However, as manufacturers introduce AI-enabled chips, these products are becoming more capable of running AI workloads directly on the device.
This combination of connectivity, computing power and potentially weak security could make them attractive to cybercriminals.
Anthropic based some of its estimates on Kimwolf, a botnet that reportedly infected more than two million devices at its peak, primarily off-brand Android TV boxes. A botnet is a network of compromised devices that can be controlled remotely by an attacker.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/091c4ae0d7da484979a973cc6846d57720342db82c567906d118f5f769de9be1" />
The researchers used this example to explore how a network of inexpensive devices could potentially support an AI-powered worm.
However, the findings should be interpreted with caution. Anthropic acknowledged that its estimates of how quickly and widely such malware could spread were preliminary, as the research focused on a limited range of hardware and previous botnet activity.
The research also has not been independently verified, meaning the potential scale of the threat remains uncertain.
AI Worms Could Be Difficult To Stop Once They Spread
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Unlike conventional malware that relies on specific instructions, an AI worm could potentially use its capabilities to adapt to unfamiliar devices and work through the steps needed to reproduce itself.
Anthropic warned that an AI worm could take several days to create each new copy, meaning its spread might initially be slow. However, once it established a foothold across multiple devices, containing it could become increasingly difficult.
Without a central system controlling every infected device, security teams might have to identify and clean up numerous compromised machines individually.
The researchers also outlined more advanced possibilities, including networks of different AI systems working together to spread malware or gain access to additional computing resources.
These scenarios remain potential threat models rather than confirmed real-world attacks. Nevertheless, Anthropic argued that cybersecurity preparations should account for the possibility of autonomous AI systems operating across a growing range of consumer hardware.
Experts Say Human Hackers Remain A Major AI Security Threat
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Although the prospect of self-replicating AI malware is concerning, experts have cautioned against overlooking the more immediate dangers posed by people using AI to improve their hacking capabilities.
Varun Chandrasekaran, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Illinois, said Anthropic's findings were consistent with other research, while noting that the company's work had not been independently verified.
He also highlighted the historically weak security protections found in devices such as home cameras and thermostats.
Chandrasekaran argued that one of the biggest current risks comes from malicious individuals using AI to enhance their cyberattacks, rather than AI systems independently going rogue.
AI tools can help attackers automate certain tasks, analyse vulnerabilities and develop malicious code more efficiently. This means organisations may face greater pressure to strengthen their defences even before fully autonomous AI worms become a practical threat.
For consumers, the findings also highlight the importance of keeping connected devices updated, replacing products that no longer receive security patches and avoiding smart devices from manufacturers that provide little information about their security support.
Business Leaders Call For Stronger AI Regulation
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f9ad2df29929ba893f1d85ec421b6f0b3d24a937f48b69797b8f280d664ad950" />
Anthropic's warning has also added to the wider debate over whether governments should introduce stronger regulations and safety standards for artificial intelligence.
At the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in New Delhi, Bharti Airtel founder and chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal argued that policymakers should not wait for a major accident before introducing safeguards. He pointed to international aviation as an example of how global industries can benefit from coordinated safety standards.
Noubar Afeyan, co-founder of Moderna, similarly called for greater oversight of AI agents being made commercially available. He argued that systems capable of taking actions independently require careful consideration before being deployed beyond controlled environments.
Other business leaders have also expressed concern that competition between technology companies could encourage rapid AI development at the expense of safety.
Microsoft president Brad Smith has called for governments and the technology industry to establish effective AI safety standards, reflecting growing pressure for clearer rules around the development and deployment of increasingly capable systems.
However, AI regulation remains contentious, with some industry figures arguing that excessive restrictions could hinder innovation or give established companies an advantage over smaller competitors.
What Does This Mean For The Future Of AI Security?
Anthropic's research highlights a potential cybersecurity challenge as AI models become smaller, more capable and increasingly accessible on everyday devices.
While self-replicating AI worms have not been established as an imminent, widespread threat, the company's experiments suggest that some of the technical steps required to create them are becoming more achievable.
For manufacturers, this reinforces the need to prioritise security when designing connected products, particularly devices that may remain in homes and businesses for years. Strong authentication, regular software updates, restricted network access and longer-term security support could help reduce the risk of compromised devices being exploited.
For governments and technology companies, the challenge will be finding ways to manage emerging AI risks without unnecessarily restricting legitimate innovation.
Ultimately, the concern is not simply whether AI can become more powerful, but whether the systems and devices surrounding it are secure enough to handle those capabilities responsibly. As AI continues to move beyond data centres and into everyday electronics, cybersecurity will become an increasingly important part of its development.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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We’ve been warned about AI, and now Anthropic flags another potential risk.

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Anthropic Warns AI Worms Could Soon Spread Across Smart Home Devices

Malaysian kopitiam chain Oriental Kopi has responded to public criticism over its menus, which reportedly feature food descriptions in English and Chinese but do not include Bahasa Malaysia. The controversy has sparked a wider discussion on the use of the national language by local businesses and how Malaysian brands represent the country's multicultural identity.
The issue gained traction on Threads after a user shared a photograph of the restaurant's menu and questioned why Bahasa Malaysia was absent despite Oriental Kopi presenting itself as a proudly Malaysian brand. The post drew widespread attention, with some Malaysians calling for the menu to be updated, while others questioned whether the criticism was being applied consistently to other food and beverage businesses.
Oriental Kopi founder Datuk Calvin Chan Jian Chern has since acknowledged the feedback, apologised for the oversight and confirmed that the company is working on a new menu design that will include Bahasa Malaysia.
Oriental Kopi Founder Apologises Over Missing Bahasa Malaysia
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Responding to the criticism on Threads, Calvin thanked the public for highlighting the issue and reiterated the company's respect for Bahasa Malaysia as the country's national language.
He also acknowledged that the omission was a shortcoming on the company's part and asked for patience while the team works on improvements.
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&ldquo;As a brand born in Malaysia, we always respect Bahasa Melayu as our national language. We apologise for this shortcoming. We're already in the process of introducing a new menu design that will include Bahasa Malaysia,&rdquo; he said.
In a separate response, Calvin emphasised that Oriental Kopi welcomes customers from all races and backgrounds. He added that the company remains committed to representing Malaysia through its traditional heritage dishes and thanked the public for giving the brand an opportunity to improve.
The response received positive reactions from some social media users, who welcomed the founder's willingness to acknowledge the feedback and address the concern.
Why Are Malaysians Criticising Oriental Kopi's Menu?
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The controversy centres on the absence of Bahasa Malaysia from the descriptions of Oriental Kopi's food items, with screenshots circulating online showing descriptions presented in English and Chinese.
Some Malaysians argued that including the national language should be a basic consideration for a local restaurant, particularly one that celebrates its Malaysian identity. Others expressed disappointment that customers who prefer reading menus in Bahasa Malaysia might not have the same experience as those who are comfortable with English or Chinese.
Some users also called for a boycott until the restaurant introduces the language into its menus, while others urged the company to make the necessary changes rather than allowing the controversy to escalate.
The discussion also gained momentum after Oriental Kopi had shared posts expressing pride in being a Malaysian brand. For some customers, the absence of Bahasa Malaysia appeared inconsistent with that identity.
One customer, who described themselves as a regular at the restaurant, said they enjoyed its food and drinks but believed the menu could better reflect Malaysia's multicultural society.
The comments highlight how language choices can influence public perceptions of a brand, particularly when it comes to businesses that position themselves as part of Malaysia's local food heritage.
Some Malaysians Question Why Oriental Kopi Is Being Singled Out
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Despite the criticism, not everyone agreed with the way the issue was raised. Some social media users questioned why Oriental Kopi was receiving particular attention when other food and beverage chains also feature menus primarily in English or use a different combination of languages.
Brands mentioned in the discussion included ZUS Coffee, Tealive, Luck Bros Kopi and Tea Garden, with some users arguing that similar expectations should apply consistently across the industry.
Others maintained that businesses should be encouraged to include Bahasa Malaysia regardless of their ownership, target audience or preferred menu language.
The debate has therefore expanded beyond Oriental Kopi itself, raising broader questions about how Malaysian businesses can balance their branding, customer preferences and the country's linguistic diversity.
While some see the inclusion of Bahasa Malaysia as an important way to recognise the national language, others believe criticism should be directed at business practices rather than focused on a single brand.
What Is Oriental Kopi Doing to Improve Its Menu?
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For now, Oriental Kopi has confirmed that a redesigned menu featuring Bahasa Malaysia is in progress, although the company has not announced a specific date for its introduction.
Founded in 2020, Oriental Kopi is known for its Nanyang-style coffee, egg tarts, polo buns and other traditional kopitiam favourites. The brand has expanded across Malaysia, with additional outlets in Singapore, and has built a following among customers from different backgrounds.
Its response suggests that the company intends to address the menu issue while maintaining its identity as a Malaysian food and beverage brand.
The next step will be the introduction of the updated menu and whether the changes meet customers' expectations.
Ultimately, the controversy serves as a reminder that language can play an important role in how local brands connect with their customers. As discussions surrounding Bahasa Malaysia continue, Oriental Kopi's planned menu update could also encourage other businesses to review how their menus reflect the communities they serve.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Hopefully, more Malaysian businesses will be encouraged to include Bahasa Malaysia in their menus and embrace our national language.

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Oriental Kopi Apologises Over Menu Without Bahasa Malaysia, Promises New Design

PC gamers may not have to wait as long as expected to play Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6), with a new report suggesting that Rockstar Games is targeting a PC release in the first quarter of 2027.
According to GamesBeat, four industry sources familiar with Rockstar&rsquo;s plans indicated that the PC version could arrive between January and March 2027. If accurate, this would put the release just a few months after the game launches on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S on 19 November 2026.
However, Rockstar has yet to officially announce a PC version or confirm the reported release window. Its parent company, Take-Two Interactive, has also not commented on the report.
For a franchise that has remained popular across multiple console generations, the news could be significant for players who have spent years waiting to experience each new instalment. It could also signal a change in Rockstar&rsquo;s traditionally lengthy console-to-PC release schedule.
GTA 6 Could Arrive On PC Much Sooner Than GTA 5
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The Grand Theft Auto series has stood the test of time, moving across different generations of consoles while maintaining a huge global fanbase. From older PlayStation and Xbox systems to modern consoles and PC, the franchise has continued to attract players through its open-world gameplay, storytelling and online experiences.
However, one recurring frustration for PC gamers has been the long wait for Rockstar&rsquo;s major releases to arrive on their preferred platform.
When GTA 5 launched on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in September 2013, PC players had to wait until April 2015 to play it officially. That was a delay of approximately 19 months.
Red Dead Redemption 2 followed a similar pattern, arriving on consoles in October 2018 before reaching PC in November 2019, roughly a year later.
If the reported schedule for GTA 6 proves accurate, PC players could receive the game within just two to four months of its console debut. That would be a substantial improvement over Rockstar&rsquo;s previous release timelines, although the studio has not confirmed that it is making this change.
Why Could Rockstar Release GTA 6 On PC Earlier?
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One possible factor is the continued popularity of GTA 5 on PC, particularly its online multiplayer and role-playing communities.
In 2023, Rockstar acquired Cfx.re, the team behind FiveM and RedM, popular frameworks that support custom role-playing experiences in GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2. These communities have helped keep Rockstar&rsquo;s games active long after their original releases.
A quicker PC release for GTA 6 could allow modders, streamers, content creators and role-playing communities to join the next generation of the franchise sooner.
Rockstar has historically prioritised consoles, with Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick previously explaining that the company wants to serve its core audience first. However, he has also acknowledged the growing importance of PC gaming to the business.
Nevertheless, developing a PC version presents additional technical challenges. Rockstar would need to optimise the game across a wide range of hardware configurations while maintaining performance and visual quality.
Could GTA 6 Online Launch Alongside The PC Version?
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Another major question is whether the reported PC release could coincide with the launch of GTA 6&rsquo;s multiplayer mode.
Fans have informally referred to the anticipated successor as GTA Online 2, although Rockstar has not officially confirmed its name or detailed its plans. Twitch CEO Dan Clancy has reportedly indicated that the next multiplayer experience is expected to arrive in 2027.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/5326/twitch-ceo-teases-gta-vi-multiplayer-could-arrive-in-2027">Twitch CEO Teases GTA VI Multiplayer Could Arrive In 2027</a>
If both reports prove accurate, launching the PC version in early 2027 could help Rockstar bring PC players into the new online experience sooner, rather than making them wait significantly longer than console users.
The original GTA Online became a major part of GTA 5&rsquo;s longevity, attracting players through multiplayer activities, regular content updates and custom role-playing servers.
Naturally, expectations for the next online experience will be high. Players will want to see whether Rockstar can deliver a smoother launch, reliable servers and a more polished multiplayer environment from the beginning.
Will GTA 6 Online Have The Same Problems As GTA 5?
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Despite the excitement, some players may be concerned about whether GTA 6 Online will repeat the problems experienced during the early days of GTA Online.
The original multiplayer mode faced launch difficulties, including server problems, connection issues and bugs that affected the overall experience. While Rockstar continued to expand and improve the game over the years, its early problems remain part of the franchise&rsquo;s history.
With GTA 6 expected to attract enormous numbers of players, a new online launch could place considerable pressure on Rockstar&rsquo;s servers and infrastructure.
Players will be hoping that the developer has learnt from more than a decade of operating GTA Online, particularly when it comes to server stability, matchmaking, progression systems and handling large numbers of players at once.
However, until Rockstar reveals more details, it is too early to determine how the new multiplayer experience will perform or whether it will encounter similar launch issues.
GTA 6 PC Release Date Remains Unconfirmed
Rockstar has already delayed GTA 6 twice, moving it from its initially planned 2025 release to May 2026, before rescheduling it again for 19 November 2026.
For now, the confirmed launch date applies to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S versions. The reported first-quarter 2027 PC window remains unconfirmed, and further delays cannot be ruled out.
If Rockstar does deliver the PC version within a few months of the console launch, it would mark a welcome change for players who have grown accustomed to lengthy waits.
For a franchise that has continued to thrive across generations of gaming hardware, the next big question is whether Rockstar can deliver GTA 6 on PC sooner while ensuring that both its single-player campaign and online experience live up to expectations.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Let’s just hope the experience won’t be like GTA V’s online shenanigans.

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

The engines may have cooled, but the debate over Malaysia’s racing future is only heating up.

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