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News Wrap-up: PM Hails Generous Malaysians, MCA Considers Using Own Logo

Jul 23, 2018

Tun M Hails Malaysian Generosity...And Pledges to Scrap SOSMA

Tabung Harapan was launched about two months ago, but collections are still going strong, reaching about RM156 million as of last Friday. 

Image Source: Ministry of Finance Twitter

Speaking at an event that managed to raise almost RM3.5 million for the fund, PM Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said he was in awe of the Malaysian spirit.

"Our dedication, our willingness to sacrifice because we love our country. We're not asking you to fight and die for the country, but your sacrifice is as good as fighting to defend the freedom of this country. This is our country"

Tun M also said the government will do away with the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act, or SOSMA.

Image Source: Bernama

He alleged that SOSMA had enabled the government to arrest anyone without having to go to court, and escape punishment if the person dies in custody.

No New DPM

Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail will remain Deputy PM even if she's replaced by her husband as PKR president in next month's party polls. 

Image Source: Bernama

The party's secretary-general explained Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has no legal standing to hold public office, even if he wins PKR's top post. 

MCA To Run Under Own Logo?

MCA has become the second Barisan Nasional component party to consider dropping the BN flag after GE14.

Party president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said MCA might be using its own logo in the Balakong by-election, instead of the blue BN flag.

Image Source: NST

Umno Selangor had earlier wanted to contest the Sungai Kandis by-election with its own logo as well, but they changed their minds. 

Big Cities Face Teacher Shortage

The high cost of living is scaring teachers away from big cities in Johor and Selangor.

The Education Minister says many teachers prefer to work in their hometowns.

Image Source: Free Malaysia Today

Dr Maszlee Malik says the shortage is keenly felt in JB and Pasir Gudang in Johor, and Shah Alam in Selangor. 

As such, the ministry may consider raising the cost of living allowance or encourage more big city locals to be teachers. 

And...Pua Denies Being Snubbed 

Damansara MP Tony Pua has shrugged off allegations of being neglected by the Pakatan government after he was not chosen to be a Cabinet minister. 

Tony said he prefered to remain as Special Officer to the Finance Minister on no pay, just to help out. 

Tony and Bangi MP Ong Kian Ming are both Lim Guan Eng's Special Officers, but Ong has since been appointed Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry.