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Articles by Stephen Ng
Rising medical insurance premiums pushing seniors over the edge
I WRITE to express my deep concern and outrage over the exorbitant increases in medical insurance premiums imposed by insurance companies recently. In my own experience, a half-yearly premium that usually cost around RM1,300 has ridiculously ballooned nearly five-fold. Citing the rising cost of medical services as the standard justification, insurers are pricing ordinary Malaysians out of basic health security.
Di mana reformasi pengangkutan awam kita?
SURAT | Sebagai pengundi dan rakyat, kita harus tanyakan satu soalan kritikal kepada Kementerian Pengangkutan: Selepas tiga tahun Anthony Loke memegang jawatan sebagai menteri, di manakah reformasi struktur yang dijanjikan? Berbanding rakan sejawatnya, Hannah Yeoh, kita dapat melihat seorang pemimpin yang aktif melaksanakan perubahan ketara terhadap landskap dasar dan tadbir urus harian di Kuala Lumpur.
Development and validation of a novel blood-based biomarker for gastric cancer triage in chronic dyspepsia
Abstract Global implementation of gastric cancer (GC) screening in chronic dyspepsia populations faces challenges due to the high number-needed-to-scope (NNS) for oesophagogastroduodenoscopy. Routine blood tests (RBT) have limited utility for GC screening but offer potential for risk stratification when repurposed through machine learning. This study develops and validates a machine-learning-integrated biomarker (RBT-GC) that uses opportunistic triage to optimise endoscopy resource allocation.
Mega Deals Drive Robust M&A: Crosbie & Co.
Original Source: Advisor.ca Improved sentiment underpins revival in dealmaking Canadian merger and acquisition activity rebounded in 2025, as markets adjusted to elevated uncertainty, according to new data from Crosbie & Co. In a report published Tuesday, the firm revealed that the volume of deal activity ticked up in the fourth quarter — with 672 transactions announced in the quarter, up slightly from 662 deals in the third quarter.
Authorities' silence on LDP's RFID congestion concerning
LETTER | Imagine the morning rush hour: instead of smoothly passing through the RFID lane at the Damansara-Puchong Expressway (LDP) toll plaza, you find yourself stuck in a queue for five minutes. Most drivers divert to the left lanes, as three right lanes are reserved for SmartTAG users. Out of eight to 10 lanes for Touch ’n Go cards and three SmartTAG lanes, only one is designated for RFID. Despite repeated feedback, the current setup remains unchanged.
Can You Deduct Family Office Expenses? Here's What The IRS Says
Kaufman Rossin are most popular: within Family and Matrimonial, Accounting and Audit and Privacy topic(s) with Finance and Tax Executives with readers working within the Accounting & Consultancy industries Many individuals who have built up wealth over their lifetime hold a substantial portfolio that may include stocks, bonds, private equity, hedge funds, rental property, artworks, etc.
Selangor authorities are failing at waste management
LETTER | Welcome to Visit Malaysia Year 2026. In just five months, Malaysia will welcome tourists from across the globe, drawn by its natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality. Yet, for those visiting Selangor - the country’s richest and most populous state - the experience may be marred by a troubling reality: illegal dumps, clogged monsoon drains reeking with foul stench, and rodent infestations thriving in neglected urban pockets.
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty - Current status and future perspectives
CONFLICT OF INTEREST Author A.Y.B.T. is an Associate Editor of Digestive Endoscopy and a consultant for Boston Scientific, Cook, Taewoong, Microtech, MI Tech, and CMR Medical Corporations. The other author declares no conflict of interest for this article. REFERENCES 1, , et al. Determinants and consequences of obesity. Am J Public Health 2016; 106: 1656–1662. 2, , et al. World obesity atlas 2023 [Internet]. London, UK: World Obesity Federation; c1967-2024 [cited 2024 Nov 14].
It’s the perception of ‘undue influence’, says Isham on Asia Mobiliti issue
This book is the result of the author's many years of experience and observation throughout his 26 years in the stockbroking industry. It was written for general public to learn to invest based on facts and not on fantasies or hearsay....
Full report on RMN helicopter crash to be out on Thursday, says Fahmi
PUTRAJAYA (May 29): The full report on the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) helicopter crash in Lumut on April 23 will be released on Thursday (May 30), said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil. Fahmi, who is also the unity government spokesman, said that Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin informed the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday about the status of the full report on the crash.
Penang to discuss exploring rare earth elements, hydrocarbon - exco
GEORGE TOWN (May 29): Penang is conducting discussions with companies related to the mining of rare earth elements, following the exploration of minerals in several areas of the state, which is estimated to be worth RM100 billion. State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri S Sundarajoo said a visit to the pilot project site in Perak is also being arranged to see the implementation method, and the benefits that will be gained in terms of comprehensive revenue returns to the state.
MACC grants more time for Mokhzani, Mirzan to declare assets
KUALA LUMPUR (May 29): The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has granted additional time to Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir and his brother Mirzan Mahathir to declare their assets. Without disclosing the extension period, MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said that the lawyers for Mirzan and Mokhzani had been in contact with the MACC's investigating officers regarding the asset declaration period. “We have already set the deadline for them to declare their assets.
Malaysians lead world in mobile wallet usage: Adyen Index
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian consumers are leading the charge in embracing alternative payment methods and cutting-edge technologies, according to the latest findings from Adyen. Adyen, a global financial technology platform for businesses, said 63 per cent of Malaysians utilise mobile wallets for transactions, boasting the highest adoption rate globally. The Adyen Index 2024, based on a survey of over 38,000 shoppers and 13,000 merchants across 26 markets, unveils these insights.
Driver allegedly punched by VVIP's bodyguard lodges second report, matter resolved amicably
KUALA LUMPUR: An e-hailing driver who lodged a police report alleging that he was punched by a bodyguard in a VVIP's entourage yesterday filed a second police report saying that the matter has been addressed. City police chief Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa in a statement confirmed receiving the first report from the driver at 1 pm yesterday. "At about 9.59 pm, the complainant made a second police report stating that the matter had been resolved amicably and that he did not wish to pursue the case further.
After eight requests, Sabah will furnish own calculation of federal govt’s 40pc debt to state, says DCM
KOTA KINABALU, May 29 — After numerous attempts to obtain data and figures from the federal government to claim its constitutional right to 40 per cent of the state’s revenue, Sabah will resort to calculating the figures on its own and present them for discussion.
Parallel pathway issue: Next week’s Cabinet meeting to discuss AGC’s recommended legal amendments, says Fahmi
PUTRAJAYA, May 29 — The Specialisation Degree Training Programme or “Parallel Pathway” requires a few legal amendments before any further steps are made, said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil today. He said the matter will be discussed in the Cabinet meeting next week. “The education minister has given some feedback, and the Attorney General’s Chambers has given some views in terms of legislation. “The Cabinet has been informed that there needs to be some amendments to the existing laws.
Federal govt coalition says keeping KKB teamwork for Sg Bakap by-election
PUTRAJAYA, May 29 — The federal government said today that its coalition will continue the teamwork between its components during the Kuala Kubu Baru by-election for the next one in Sungai Bakap. However, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the coalition’s top leadership has yet to discuss the by-election cooperation. “We are not yet at the stage of the unity government negotiations, there has not been a meeting on this matter.
Malay reserve land fraud case an isolated incident, says Azam Baki
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malay reserve land fraud case in Perak was an isolated incident, says Tan Sri Azam Baki. The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner said he had not received any fraud cases involving Malay reserve in other states following the case involving the subdivision of reserved land in Manjung, Perak. “It is a criminal offence to change the status of a Malay reserve land to freehold.
Amendments to law needed for Cardiothoracic Surgery programme, says Fahmi
PUTRAJAYA: Amendments to the law are needed on the matter of recognising the Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (FRCS Ed) Cardiothoracic Surgery programme, Fahmi Fadzil said. The Communications Minister said the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) had recently given its views to the Cabinet from a legal perspective. “The AG’s office has given its views from the legal standpoint and the cabinet was informed that there needs to be some amendments to the law.
Can Tun M exonerate himself by asking PMX not to stifle discussion on 3Rs? By Stephen Ng
WHEN twice former premier Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad called on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (PMX) not to stifle discussions on the 3Rs (race, religion and royalty), the first thing that came to mind was the need for a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate who instigated the bloodbath of May 13. This has been on many people’s mind, especially when the accusation came directly from the late Tunku Abdul Rahman (TAR), Malaysia’s first PM and the nation’s founding father.
Ringgit opens lower at 4.7695 to the US dollar as hopes for June US rate-cut fades
KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit opened easier against the US dollar today with traders maintaining their focus on the greenback with higher-than-expected US inflation data. This may suggest that the US Federal Reserve may keep interest rate hikes, dashing the expectation for a June interest rate cut. At 9 am, the local currency fell to 4.7695/7735 versus the US dollar from Tuesday's close of 4.7455/7500.
Air quality improves in Klang, Banting and Cheras
KUALA LUMPUR: Three areas in the Klang Valley registered an improvement in their air quality readings as of 8 am today. According to the Environment Department's Air Pollutant Index (API) Management System (APIMS), Klang and Banting recorded moderate API readings of 72 and 87 respectively this morning. Another area in the Klang Valley that posted moderate air quality readings is Cheras, with an API reading of 81.
Bursa Malaysia opens lower as traders extend Hari Raya break
KUALA LUMPUR: Bursa Malaysia opened slightly lower today, influenced by a subdued market as traders extended their Hari Raya break. At 9.15 am, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) fell 3.56 points to 1,549.95 from Tuesday's close of 1,553.51. The benchmark index opened 0.58 points higher at 1,554.09. On the broader market, decliners led gainers 249 to 237, while 369 counters were unchanged. Turnover amounted to 365.68 million units worth RM201.25 million.
Israeli man in possession of six pistols, 200 bullets charged
This book is the result of the author's many years of experience and observation throughout his 26 years in the stockbroking industry. It was written for general public to learn to invest based on facts and not on fantasies or hearsay....
Israeli man in possession of six pistols, 200 bullets charged
Israeli man in possession of six pistols, 200 bullets charged https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tN3vqCLuV3c - KiniTV
Affordability, quality big draws for foreign students
GEORGE TOWN: The affordability and quality of education, and similar food and culture, are among the reasons foreign students are drawn to pursue their tertiary education here, according to many.
Deputy minister: Sarawak premier recently held discussions with PM Anwar on Padu
KUCHING, April 12 ― Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had recently engaged in discussions concerning the Central Database Hub (Padu). In disclosing this, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali said however, no further deliberations on the matter have occurred with Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli up to yesterday.
As Menu Rahmah fades, supporters hope to see Putrajaya revive affordable meal scheme
KUALA LUMPUR, April 12 — The federal government should ensure its Menu Rahmah initiative could continue helping Malaysians afford simple nutritious meals, said proponents who expressed concern over the apparent decline of the programme.
Gaza attack: International community must take Israeli regime to task over 'cruel act', says PM
KUALA LUMPUR: The Isreali attack on Gaza on the first day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri proves that the Zionist regime does not desire a ceasefire as demanded by the United Nations Security Council, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The Prime Minister said it also showed that the Israeli regime would not comply with international law and regulations.
Malaysian spirit shines at PPR
GEORGE TOWN: Despite their diverse backgrounds, the residents of Jalan Sungai’s People Housing Project (PPR) were united in the spirit of camaraderie and goodwill during Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Hospital attendant Mahajabeen Mohamaad Yasin, 69, often invites her neighbours and friends of various races to join in the festivities. “I have known them for over 20 years, and we are like family, regardless of race, religion or cultural background. “We look out for each other.
Pahang identifies two sites for R&R sites on LTU, says MB
KUANTAN: The Pahang government has identified two locations for the proposed construction of rest and service (R&R) areas on the Lingkaran Tengah Utama (LTU) Expressway in the state for the convenience and comfort of road users. Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail said the proposed locations are from Bentong to Raub and Kampung Kechau Tui in Lipis.
Penang’s LRT is a positive step, but buses are equally crucial - Faizal Adam
APRIL 11 — The green light for Penang’s LRT is exciting news, but it shouldn’t overshadow the importance of buses. Learning from the Klang Valley’s overemphasis on rail in its public transport development, Penang should prioritise a strong, integrated bus system alongside the LRT. This combats over-reliance on personal vehicles and e-hailing (to access the LRT) and fosters a more sustainable transportation network.
Throw away the old, broken records and fulfil people’s vision for a better Malaysia By Stephen Ng
ACCORDING to the 2024 Smart City Index, Kuala Lumpur is now the world’s 73rd smartest city out of a total of 142 cities on its radar. With the majority of young people now being IT savvy, it is time for politicians who are still running around with their Flintstone broken records to cut off their old narratives that were once the records played by the Barisan Nasional (BN). If these narratives had been effective, BN would not be where it is today.
Resolve specialist shortage quickly, say surgeons
PETALING JAYA: While acknowledging that the specialist shortage is a complex issue, a surgeons group voiced hope that changes to the law can be sped up to fix the problem. “While we understand the challenges and technicalities involved, we hope this can be resolved as soon as possible,” said Malaysian Association for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery honorary secretary Prof Dr John Chan Kok Meng.
Low-cost education that’s top class
PETALING JAYA: Some local private universities say one can get tertiary education of the same quality, if not better, in Malaysia, and at a lower cost too – echoing the view of an association of private colleges and universities. Sunway Education Group chief executive officer Prof Datuk Elizabeth Lee said enrolment in Sunway University for undergraduate degrees saw about a 20% increase last year.
Penang water reserves go down despite rain
GEORGE TOWN: A thunderstorm hit Penang on the first day of Hari Raya, with a downpour all afternoon – but it did little to help raise the level in the island’s oldest dam. Instead, the Hari Raya festivities have taken more water out of the state’s reserves, with the Air Itam Dam now having water for only another 32 days. The reserves dropped to 31.8% yesterday compared with 35% on March 30. Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) chief executive officer K.
Anwar invites public to come for Hari Raya do in Batang Kali on Friday
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has invited the public to attend the Hari Raya Aidilfitri Feast at Masjid Bandar Utama Batang Kali, Hulu Selangor at noon Friday (April 12). According to a post on his official Facebook page, the Prime Minister said he would also perform Friday prayers with the local community at the same location on Friday (April 12). "Let us come together and strengthen the bonds of friendship as we celebrate this joyous month of Syawal,” he said.
‘Together in unity’ mindset lights up Premier’s open house
KUCHING: For Sarawakians, Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a time for everyone to celebrate together, regardless of race or religion. Thousands of guests from various backgrounds attended Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s Raya open house at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, demonstrating this unity in diversity. Among them was John Tarawe, who came all the way from Bario in the remote Kelabit highlands. “We can see the blend of different ethnic groups here.
Gridlock in Penang as visitors take in the sights amid festive joy
GEORGE TOWN: The heritage area and several major roads have been packed with motorists going about their shopping and sightseeing during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive season. Many visitors, both locals and foreigners, dropped by tourist spots to snap photos, while others took trishaw rides to enjoy the scenic view. K. Neha, 30, said she drove to town for some shopping as she was on leave, but found it difficult to get a parking spot.
“‘Pau’ is a secret code between JPJ and driving instructors since the 1980s” By Stephen Ng
FORTY years ago, the word pau (indicative of bribery or under table money) which was mentioned by Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook recently had already existed in the Road Transport Department’s (JPJ) vocabulary.
What about an RCI to probe the Sheraton Move and two other political coups? By Stephen Ng
A FEW Royal Commissions of Inquiry (RCIs) should be set up to get to the bottom of the numerous attempts to carry out political coups in the country. The first one was the infamous political coup against the late Bapa Malaysia Tunku Abdul Rahman. However, as most of the players are dead except for Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, the twice former premier, we should just leave this to the historians to study the historical documents that have been declassified by the British government.
Weak Merger Activity to Finish 2023: Crosbie
Original Source: Investment Executive High interest rates, heightened macro uncertainty weigh on deal flow Merger and acquisition activity had its weakest quarter in the past 10 years to end 2023, according to new data from Crosbie & Co. Inc. The Toronto-based firm reported that there were 546 deals announced in the fourth quarter of 2023, down from 579 in the third quarter. From the same quarter a year ago, deal activity was down by 28%.
Sarawak Tourism Board to feature state's International Dragon Boat Regatta on angpow packets for CNY
KUCHING: New angpow packets from the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) will feature the Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta to usher in the Year of the Dragon. STB chief executive officer Sharzede Salleh Askor said this was the seventh edition of angpow packets featuring elements unique to Sarawak.
Govt agrees to exempt CGT and taxes on FSI on unit trusts, says finance minister II
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 16 — The government has agreed to exempt the imposition of capital gains tax (CGT) as well as taxes on foreign sourced income (FSI) on unit trusts, said Minister of Finance II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. He said the exemption on CGT is effective from Jan 1, 2024 until December 31, 2028 while the exemption on FSI takes effect from Jan 1, 2024 until December 31, 2026.
UMNO and DAP’s evolving political cultures: Where are they heading to? By Stephen Ng
Letter to editor PHYSICALLY and genetically, it is impossible for humans to evolve from apes; however, it is posible for a new pattern of behaviours or political culture to develop. While politicians can behave like the primates, earning even the moniker in a form of a veiled reprimand from the Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, this chimpanzee (just for the fun of it and for illustration purposes) can even know how to behave like a human child.
Singapore-Johor Special Economic Zone: Smoother border crossing and tax incentives high on companies’ wish list
SINGAPORE, Jan 15 — Iman Yusoff, owner of Singapore cargo and freight company IndoBox Asia, has a warehouse in Skudai, Johor strategically located between the two Singapore-Johor land links and about 20 minutes’ drive to Senai Airport. However, if there is one thing he wishes to see improved, it would be the time taken for vehicles to cross from Singapore to Malaysia, which can take up to two hours on average.
DAP supports fixed-term Parliament bill
SEBERANG JAYA: DAP supports the introduction of the fixed-term Parliament bill as suggested by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi recently. DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke said, in principle, the bill was good as it reduced any problems or political issues during a particular parliamentary term. He, however, said in terms of implementation, it needed to be looked into thoroughly.
‘Success’ of Malaysian researchers is again under the spotlight ― Mohammad Tariqur Rahman
JANUARY 16 ― A Nature article published on January 10, 2024 referring to a study reported in Plos One in December 2023 articulates “Self-citations in around a dozen countries are unusually high”. The article continues to emphasise “Researchers behind the analysis think that policy incentives in these places are to blame”. Using Scopus data, the study in Plos One evaluated the trends of country self-citations in 50 countries over the world in the period 1996-2019.
Tommy Thomas questions why MACC probe against Daim initiated more than 20-years after alleged offence
KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court has fixed March 4 to decide whether former finance minister Tun Daim Zainuddin's application to challenge the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) probe into his financial dealings should be allowed. Judge Datuk Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh made the decision after hearing lengthy submissions from both parties this morning.
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