Malaysia's would-be leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-roller-coaster-life-of-malaysias-anwar-ibrahim-137700">Anwar Ibrahim</a> on Sunday accused 94-year-old Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysias-prime-minister-mahathir-mohamad-expresses-his-intention-to-step-down-281867">Mahathir Mohamad</a>'s party and "traitors" in his own camp of plotting a wholesale change in the ruling coalition that could ultimately deny him the premiership.

After being promised that he would one day become prime minister, Anwar allied with former rival Mahathir to win a surprise victory in the 2018 general election and end the six-decade grip of a party accused of widespread corruption.

But on Sunday politicians from the coalition held talks at a hotel near Kuala Lumpur on a possible new alliance with members of the ousted former ruling party, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-palm-oil-spate-start-a-trade-war-between-india-and-malaysia-278402">United Malays National Organisation</a> (UMNO), political sources said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysias-prime-minister-mahathir-mohamad-expresses-his-intention-to-step-down-281867">Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expresses his intention to step down</a>

"We know there are attempts to bring down PH and form a new government," Anwar said, referring to the Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope) coalition that he helped form under Mahathir, who leads the Bersatu party.

Anwar said of the alleged plotters that: "It involves our former friends in Bersatu and a small faction of traitors from PKR."

Anwar's PKR party is the biggest constituent of the current alliance, but it is beset by internal divisions. Meanwhile, Mahathir has said in recent months that he needs more time for a planned transition for which he has never set a date.

Watch: The roller-coaster life of Malaysia's Anwar Ibrahim

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-roller-coaster-life-of-malaysias-anwar-ibrahim-137700/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Forming a new coalition could allow Mahathir to serve out a full term instead of handing over to Anwar as promised.

One source with knowledge of the matter said Mahathir had been angry that he came under pressure from pro-Anwar ministers to set a clear timetable for a handover at a meeting of the coalition on Friday.

Mahathir's own Bersatu party held a special meeting earlier on Sunday. Neither he nor the party commented on what had been discussed.

Some Malaysians expressed their anger on social media over the speculation of a new alliance, saying the coalition they voted for to bring in reforms now threatened to betray them by partnering with the political parties they voted out.

Anwar had served as deputy prime minister and finance minister during Mahathir's first 22-year stint in office under UNMO, but was sacked in 1998 after falling out over how to defend the economy against the Asian Financial Crisis.

Anwar was jailed twice on sodomy charges that he said were politically motivated. He was released on a royal pardon after the 2018 election.

He is a member of parliament but does not hold a ministerial post. His wife is the country's deputy prime minister.

Malaysia's would-be leader Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday accused 94-year-old Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's party and "traitors" in his own camp of plotting a wholesale change in the ruling coalition that could ultimately deny him the premiership.

Malaysia's would-be leader Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday accused 94-year-old Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's party and "traitors" in his own camp of plotting a wholesale change in the ruling coalition that could ultimately deny him the premiership. After being promised that he would one day become prime minister, Anwar allied with former rival Mahathir to win a surprise victory in the 2018 general election and end the six-decade grip of a party accused of widespread corruption. But on Sunday politicians from the coalition held talks at a hotel near Kuala Lumpur on a possible new alliance with members of the ousted former ruling party, the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), political sources said. Also read: Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expresses his intention to step down "We know there are attempts to bring down PH and form a new government," Anwar said, referring to the Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope) coalition that he helped form under Mahathir, who leads the Bersatu party. Anwar said of the alleged plotters that: "It involves our former friends in Bersatu and a small faction of traitors from PKR." Anwar's PKR party is the biggest constituent of the current alliance, but it is beset by internal divisions. Meanwhile, Mahathir has said in recent months that he needs more time for a planned transition for which he has never set a date. Watch: The roller-coaster life of Malaysia's Anwar Ibrahim Forming a new coalition could allow Mahathir to serve out a full term instead of handing over to Anwar as promised. One source with knowledge of the matter said Mahathir had been angry that he came under pressure from pro-Anwar ministers to set a clear timetable for a handover at a meeting of the coalition on Friday. Mahathir's own Bersatu party held a special meeting earlier on Sunday. Neither he nor the party commented on what had been discussed. Some Malaysians expressed their anger on social media over the speculation of a new alliance, saying the coalition they voted for to bring in reforms now threatened to betray them by partnering with the political parties they voted out. Anwar had served as deputy prime minister and finance minister during Mahathir's first 22-year stint in office under UNMO, but was sacked in 1998 after falling out over how to defend the economy against the Asian Financial Crisis. Anwar was jailed twice on sodomy charges that he said were politically motivated. He was released on a royal pardon after the 2018 election. He is a member of parliament but does not hold a ministerial post. His wife is the country's deputy prime minister.

Anwar Ibrahim cries foul as Malaysian parties discuss sweeping coalition change

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysias-prime-minister-mahathir-mohamad-expresses-his-intention-to-step-down-281867">Mahathir Mohamad</a> has submitted a letter of resignation to Malaysia's king, his office said on Monday, amid talk of forming a new governing coalition.

The fate of Malaysia's ruling coalition had been in doubt after surprise weekend talks between it and opposition groups on forming a new government that would exclude Mahathir's anointed successor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anwar-ibrahim-cries-foul-as-malaysian-parties-discuss-sweeping-coalition-change-282301">Anwar Ibrahim</a>.

"The letter has been sent to His Royal Highness the King at 1 pm," Mahathir's office said in a statement.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anwar-ibrahim-cries-foul-as-malaysian-parties-discuss-sweeping-coalition-change-282301">Anwar Ibrahim cries foul as Malaysian parties discuss sweeping coalition change</a>

It was not immediately clear if Mahathir could form another government with the support of other parties, but his party, Bersatu, has also quit the ruling coalition, its president, Malaysian home minister Muhyiddin Yassin said on Facebook.

On Sunday, Anwar had accused Mahathir's party and "traitors" in his own party of plotting to form a new government with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysias-prime-minister-mahathir-mohamad-expresses-his-intention-to-step-down-281867">United Malays National Organisation</a> (UMNO), the former ruling party ousted in 2018 amid graft accusations.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-palm-oil-spate-start-a-trade-war-between-india-and-malaysia-278402"> Will palm oil spate start a trade war between India and Malaysia?</a>

Sources said Mahathir's party and a faction in Anwar's party met officials from UMNO and Islamist party PAS in efforts to form a new coalition and possibly back Mahathir to serve out a full five-year term as prime minister.

The turmoil, amid growing fears about a spreading coronavirus,&nbsp;had spooked investors, driving Kuala Lumpur's benchmark to a 10-year low, while the ringgit currency slid 0.7 per cent to an almost six-month low, its sharpest drop in over three years.

The tussle between old rivals Mahathir, 94, and Anwar, 72, has shaped Malaysian politics for decades and tension has persisted, despite their alliance to win 2018 elections based on a promise that Mahathir would one day cede power to Anwar.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has submitted a letter of resignation to Malaysia's king, his office said on Monday, amid talk of forming a new governing coalition.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has submitted a letter of resignation to Malaysia's king, his office said on Monday, amid talk of forming a new governing coalition. The fate of Malaysia's ruling coalition had been in doubt after surprise weekend talks between it and opposition groups on forming a new government that would exclude Mahathir's anointed successor Anwar Ibrahim. "The letter has been sent to His Royal Highness the King at 1 pm," Mahathir's office said in a statement. Also read: Anwar Ibrahim cries foul as Malaysian parties discuss sweeping coalition change It was not immediately clear if Mahathir could form another government with the support of other parties, but his party, Bersatu, has also quit the ruling coalition, its president, Malaysian home minister Muhyiddin Yassin said on Facebook. On Sunday, Anwar had accused Mahathir's party and "traitors" in his own party of plotting to form a new government with the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), the former ruling party ousted in 2018 amid graft accusations. Also read: Will palm oil spate start a trade war between India and Malaysia? Sources said Mahathir's party and a faction in Anwar's party met officials from UMNO and Islamist party PAS in efforts to form a new coalition and possibly back Mahathir to serve out a full five-year term as prime minister. The turmoil, amid growing fears about a spreading coronavirus, had spooked investors, driving Kuala Lumpur's benchmark to a 10-year low, while the ringgit currency slid 0.7 per cent to an almost six-month low, its sharpest drop in over three years. The tussle between old rivals Mahathir, 94, and Anwar, 72, has shaped Malaysian politics for decades and tension has persisted, despite their alliance to win 2018 elections based on a promise that Mahathir would one day cede power to Anwar.

Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad sends resignation letter to king

The 94-year-old Prime Minister of Malaysia has expressed his intention to step down on Thursday.&nbsp;

Without giving an exact date, he has said that he is willing to retire in the next nine months.

Mahathir became Prime Minister for the first time way back in 1981 and officially retired in 2003.

In 2007, Mahathir had bypass surgery after he suffered a couple of heart attacks.

Ten years later, he became the world's oldest head of state after winning historic victory in Malaysia election in 2018. Mahathir decided to run for office again because he was angry at how corrupt the government had become.

Mahathir chairs the ruling four-party coalition called the alliance of hope. 
It includes his influential arch nemesis-turned-ally, Anwar Ibrahim.

According to the coalition agreement, 72-year old Anwar is prime minister-in-waiting.

It was decided that Mahathir would pass on the premiership to Anwar who was then in jail.

The exact date of the handover has not been discussed so far.

According to those close to the Prime Minister say that he will leave the office after he hosts the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in November.

Most observers believe that Mahathir wants to continue in power for the next 3-years and that he could form a new Muslim-based coalition with opposition parties.

Meanwhile, the issue has taken a toll on the government.

Despite bringing political stability it has been hit by scandals and infighting.

It is also facing accusations of not delivering on election promises; all this uncertainty is expected to impact sentiments of those looking to invest in the country.

The 94-year-old Prime Minister of Malaysia has expressed his intention to step down on Thursday. Without giving an exact date, he has said that he is willing to retire in the next nine months.

The 94-year-old Prime Minister of Malaysia has expressed his intention to step down on Thursday. Without giving an exact date, he has said that he is willing to retire in the next nine months. Mahathir became Prime Minister for the first time way back in 1981 and officially retired in 2003. In 2007, Mahathir had bypass surgery after he suffered a couple of heart attacks. Ten years later, he became the world's oldest head of state after winning historic victory in Malaysia election in 2018. Mahathir decided to run for office again because he was angry at how corrupt the government had become. Mahathir chairs the ruling four-party coalition called the alliance of hope. It includes his influential arch nemesis-turned-ally, Anwar Ibrahim. According to the coalition agreement, 72-year old Anwar is prime minister-in-waiting. It was decided that Mahathir would pass on the premiership to Anwar who was then in jail. The exact date of the handover has not been discussed so far. According to those close to the Prime Minister say that he will leave the office after he hosts the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in November. Most observers believe that Mahathir wants to continue in power for the next 3-years and that he could form a new Muslim-based coalition with opposition parties. Meanwhile, the issue has taken a toll on the government. Despite bringing political stability it has been hit by scandals and infighting. It is also facing accusations of not delivering on election promises; all this uncertainty is expected to impact sentiments of those looking to invest in the country.

Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expresses his intention to step down

Imran Khan wants aid from Saudi Arabia. At the same time, he doesn't want to miff Malaysia. The Pakistani PM is attempting a tricky balancing act. He is in Malaysia to placate Mahathir Mohamad. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why this visit could be a diplomatic disaster.

Gravitas: Why is Imran Khan in Malaysia

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said that Malaysia is a too small of a nation to respond to India's boycott of palm oil with trade retaliation. "We are too small to take retaliatory action.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said that Malaysia is a too small of a nation to respond to India's boycott of palm oil with trade retaliation. "We are too small to take retaliatory action. We have to find ways and means to overcome that," Mahathir told reporters in Langkawi, a resort island off the western coast of Malaysia. India, the world's largest edible oil buyer, this month halted Malaysian palm oil imports after Malaysian PM Mohamad spoke out against recent policies of India including abrogation of Article 370 which critics say discriminate against Muslims. Mahathir again criticised India's citizenship law on Monday, saying he believed it was "grossly unfair", a Reuters report said. India has been Malaysia's largest palm oil market for the past five years, presenting the Southeast Asian country with a major challenge in finding new buyers for its palm oil. Benchmark Malaysian palm futures fell nearly 10% last week, their biggest weekly decline in more than 11 years. Meanwhile, trade ministers from India and Malaysia are likely to meet on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos this week, according to a Malaysian government spokesman. (With inputs from Reuters)

Malaysia too small to respond to India's boycott of palm oil with trade retaliation: Mahathir Mohamad

Comments on India's citizenship law by Microsoft C.E.O Satya Nadella and Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has sparked reactions from BJP lawmakers. Meanwhile, Kerala government has moved the apex court with a petition on C.A.A. Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: CAA, Satya Nadella, Mahathir Mohamad & The Reactions

Days after India decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row, the government is intending to confine import of microchips amid signs that the trade issue is probably not going to be sifted through soon as the Southeast Asian country keeps on irritating India over Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment Act).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malaysian-pm-expresses-concern-after-india-puts-curbs-on-palm-oil-imports-274231">Also read: Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad takes a dig at India over palm oil import row</a>

The southeast country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expressed concerns over India's internal matters on Tuesday while also indicating that he would continue to speak even if it costs his country financially.

"We are concerned of course because we sell a lot of palm oil to India, but on the other hand, we need to be frank and see that if something goes wrong, we will have to say it. If we allow things to go wrong and think only about the money involved, then I think a lot of wrong things will be done, by us and by other people," Malaysian PM said.

India on January 9 decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia after New Delhi objected to Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's criticism on Jammu and Kashmir and its new Citizenship Act.&nbsp;

In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same.&nbsp;

The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read.

New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

Days after India decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row, the government is intending to confine import of microchips amid signs that the trade issue is probably not going to be sifted through soon as the Southeast Asian country keeps on irritating India over Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment Act).

Days after India decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row, the government is intending to confine import of microchips amid signs that the trade issue is probably not going to be sifted through soon as the Southeast Asian country keeps on irritating India over Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment Act). Also read: Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad takes a dig at India over palm oil import row The southeast country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expressed concerns over India's internal matters on Tuesday while also indicating that he would continue to speak even if it costs his country financially. "We are concerned of course because we sell a lot of palm oil to India, but on the other hand, we need to be frank and see that if something goes wrong, we will have to say it. If we allow things to go wrong and think only about the money involved, then I think a lot of wrong things will be done, by us and by other people," Malaysian PM said. India on January 9 decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia after New Delhi objected to Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's criticism on Jammu and Kashmir and its new Citizenship Act. In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same. The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read. New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

India plans to impose new curbs on Malaysia as Mahathir Mohamad continues to comment on CAA

Days after&nbsp;India decided to put curbs on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-puts-curbs-on-palm-oil-imports-from-malaysia-following-pm-mahathir-mohamad-caa-remark-273134">palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row</a>, the southeast country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expressed concerns on Tuesday while also indicating that he would continue to speak even if it costs his country financially.

"We are concerned of course because we sell a lot of palm oil to India, but on the other hand, we need to be frank and see that if something goes wrong, we will have to say it. If we allow things to go wrong and think only about the money involved, then I think a lot of wrong things will be done, by us and by other people," Malaysian PM said.

India on January 9 decided to put curbs on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/malaysia-expects-palm-oil-inventory-to-end-year-at-21-million-tonnes-report-269081">palm oil imports</a> from Malaysia after New Delhi objected to Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's criticism on Jammu and Kashmir and its new Citizenship Act.&nbsp;

In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same.&nbsp;

The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read.

New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

Now, the Indian palm oil importers have effectively stopped all purchases from Malaysia following a diplomatic spat.

As Malaysian palm refiners stare at a massive loss of business, Mahathir assured his country that his government would find a solution.

India is the world's biggest buyer of edible oils and Malaysia is the second-biggest producer and exporter of palm oil after Indonesia.

India is also Malaysia's biggest buyer of palm oil in 2019, with 4.4 million tonnes of purchases. Now, in 2020, purchases could fall below 1 million tonnes if relations don't improve.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Days after India decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row, the southeast country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expressed concerns on Tuesday while also indicating that he would continue to speak even if it costs his country financially.

Days after India decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row, the southeast country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expressed concerns on Tuesday while also indicating that he would continue to speak even if it costs his country financially. "We are concerned of course because we sell a lot of palm oil to India, but on the other hand, we need to be frank and see that if something goes wrong, we will have to say it. If we allow things to go wrong and think only about the money involved, then I think a lot of wrong things will be done, by us and by other people," Malaysian PM said. India on January 9 decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia after New Delhi objected to Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's criticism on Jammu and Kashmir and its new Citizenship Act. In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same. The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read. New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts". Now, the Indian palm oil importers have effectively stopped all purchases from Malaysia following a diplomatic spat. As Malaysian palm refiners stare at a massive loss of business, Mahathir assured his country that his government would find a solution. India is the world's biggest buyer of edible oils and Malaysia is the second-biggest producer and exporter of palm oil after Indonesia. India is also Malaysia's biggest buyer of palm oil in 2019, with 4.4 million tonnes of purchases. Now, in 2020, purchases could fall below 1 million tonnes if relations don't improve. (With inputs from agencies)

Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad takes a dig at India over palm oil import row

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to visit Malaysia later this month in what appears to be the part of damage control effort after Islamabad pulled out of the Kuala Lumpur summit last month, a media report said.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to visit Malaysia later this month in what appears to be the part of damage control effort after Islamabad pulled out of the Kuala Lumpur summit last month, a media report said. A report in The Express Tribune citing official sources said that the visit was due since last month Islamabad pulled out of the Kaula Lumpur conference at the 11th hour after Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries voiced their reservations over the gathering of leaders from host Malaysia, Turkey, Iran and Qatar. The summit was meant to discuss problems facing the Muslim countries and suggest a way forward. But observers saw it as an attempt by Malaysia and other like-minded countries to create a new Islamic bloc, excluding Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations. However, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad had dismissed such reports. The official sources said that it was believed Khan would use the visit to explain Mahathir as to why Pakistan pulled out of the summit. Islamabad is also making efforts to reach out to Turkey. The sources were confident that the scheduled visit of Turkish President Recep Tayab Erdogan to Pakistan next month would help remove any mistrust between the two countries.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan to call on Malaysia's Mahathir Mohamad soon for 'damage control exercise'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-fallout-member-of-malaysian-central-government-coalition-says-pm-mahathir-has-overreacted-269450">Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohama</a>d said on Saturday that Iran, Malaysia, Turkey and Qatar are considering trading amongst themselves through gold and barter system in a bid to prevent any future sanctions on them.

"I have suggested that we re-visit the idea of trading using the gold dinar and barter trade among us," Mahathir said, at the end of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-defends-muslim-summit-shunned-by-saudi-slammed-by-oic-269055">Islamic summit </a>in Malaysia.&nbsp;

"We are seriously looking into this and we hope that we will be able to find a mechanism to put it into effect."

It should be noted that Iran has been badly affected by the US-imposed sanctions that were put in place last year. The US allies: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt have also cut diplomatic and trade ties with Qatar nearly two and a half years ago over allegations that the country backs terrorism.

The leaders attending the summit agreed that they need to push trade amongst themselves and transact in each other's currencies.&nbsp;

The Malaysian PM praised Iran and Qatar for withstanding economic embargoes and asked the Muslim world to be self-reliant to face future threats.&nbsp;

Mahathir also said that there was concern of Muslims undergoing assimilation in non-Muslim countries.&nbsp;

"We support integration but assimilation to the extent of shedding our religion is unacceptable," the Malaysian prime minister said.

The four-day summit was boycotted by Saudi Arabia, who slammed the event for undermining the Saudi-based Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which represents 57 Muslim-majority nations. Malaysia responded to Saudi's claims by saying that it had invited all the OIC members to the summit but only about 20 nations showed up.

In the last day of the event, no joint statement from the members who attended the summit was released.&nbsp;

(with inputs from Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Saturday that Iran, Malaysia, Turkey and Qatar are considering trading amongst themselves through gold and barter system in a bid to prevent any future sanctions on them.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Saturday that Iran, Malaysia, Turkey and Qatar are considering trading amongst themselves through gold and barter system in a bid to prevent any future sanctions on them. "I have suggested that we re-visit the idea of trading using the gold dinar and barter trade among us," Mahathir said, at the end of the Islamic summit in Malaysia. "We are seriously looking into this and we hope that we will be able to find a mechanism to put it into effect." It should be noted that Iran has been badly affected by the US-imposed sanctions that were put in place last year. The US allies: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt have also cut diplomatic and trade ties with Qatar nearly two and a half years ago over allegations that the country backs terrorism. The leaders attending the summit agreed that they need to push trade amongst themselves and transact in each other's currencies. The Malaysian PM praised Iran and Qatar for withstanding economic embargoes and asked the Muslim world to be self-reliant to face future threats. Mahathir also said that there was concern of Muslims undergoing assimilation in non-Muslim countries. "We support integration but assimilation to the extent of shedding our religion is unacceptable," the Malaysian prime minister said. The four-day summit was boycotted by Saudi Arabia, who slammed the event for undermining the Saudi-based Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which represents 57 Muslim-majority nations. Malaysia responded to Saudi's claims by saying that it had invited all the OIC members to the summit but only about 20 nations showed up. In the last day of the event, no joint statement from the members who attended the summit was released. (with inputs from Reuters)

Malaysian PM says Muslim nations considering trade through gold, barter system to avoid sanctions

Is Kuala Lumpur Summit Dividing The Muslim World Instead Of Being A Unifying Force? Mahathir Mohamad, the Prime Minister of Malaysia is an old horse. At 93, he came back to power. Now, he seeks leadership beyond his country through the Kuala Lumpur summit. But the event itself is turning into a flop show. Details in this report. #Gravitas #Mahathir Mohamad #Malaysia

Gravitas: Is Mahathir Mohamad's Leadership Bid Turning Into A Flop Show?

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said the Muslim world is in a "state of crisis". #WION #WIONDispatch #MalaysiaPM #Mahathir Mohamad

WION Dispatch: Malaysia PM flags concerns of Muslims

The president of sanctions-hit Iran called Thursday for Muslim countries to cooperate in fighting US "economic terrorism" at the opening of a summit aimed at tackling the Islamic world's woes.

Hundreds of delegates are attending the gathering in Malaysia&nbsp;including heads of state and religious leaders but the meeting has been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-defends-muslim-summit-shunned-by-saudi-slammed-by-oic-269055">snubbed by Saudi Arabia</a>, home to Islam's holiest shrines.

The summit has also been criticised for undermining the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), the Saudi-based global body representing Muslim nations and organisations.

Issues including the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-rohingya-worlds-fastest-growing-refugee-crisis-267598">plight of Myanmar's Rohingya</a> and China's mostly Muslim Uighur minority could be discussed, although, with massive Chinese infrastructure in many Islamic nations, criticism may be muted.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Plight of Rohingyas is world's fastest-growing refugee crisis

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In opening remarks, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani&nbsp;slammed Washington's global clout.

"American economic regime, and dollarisation of national and global economies, have provided the United States with the possibility of advancing its hegemony under the threat of sanctions and economic terrorism," he said.

The Muslim world needs to be saved "from the domination of the United States dollar, and the American financial regime", he added, calling for greater financial cooperation between Islamic countries.

The United States re-imposed crippling sanctions on Iran in 2018 after withdrawing from an international deal aimed at tackling the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-deal-parties-meet-as-accord-nears-collapse-266694">Islamic republic's nuclear programme</a>.

In his welcome address at the Kuala Lumpur event, Malaysian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-pm-mahathir-mohamad-suggests-he-could-stay-in-office-beyond-2020-268284/amp">Mahathir Mohamad</a> said that Muslim countries were "in a state of crisis, helpless and unworthy of this great religion which is meant to be good for mankind".

He also insisted summit organisers were "not discriminating (against) or isolating anyone" after the absence of Saudi Arabia triggered speculation the meeting was aimed at countering the kingdom's influence.

We have "invited almost all Muslim nations to participate in this summit, albeit at different levels", he said.

With Saudi rivals Iran, Qatar and Turkey in attendance, analysts had suggested the meeting could be aimed at forming a rival bloc to the OIC.&nbsp;

There were signs Riyadh was worried, with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-imran-khan-cancels-malaysia-summit-under-saudi-diplomatic-pressure-268893">withdrawing from the gathering</a> reportedly after Saudi pressure.

Mahathir dismissed such concerns in a phone call this week with Saudi Arabia's King Salman.&nbsp;

But the OIC, which has 57 members, launched a veiled attack Wednesday on the event, saying such gatherings would weaken Islam.

The president of sanctions-hit Iran called Thursday for Muslim countries to cooperate in fighting US "economic terrorism" at the opening of a summit aimed at tackling the Islamic world's woes.

The president of sanctions-hit Iran called Thursday for Muslim countries to cooperate in fighting US "economic terrorism" at the opening of a summit aimed at tackling the Islamic world's woes. Hundreds of delegates are attending the gathering in Malaysia including heads of state and religious leaders but the meeting has been snubbed by Saudi Arabia, home to Islam's holiest shrines. The summit has also been criticised for undermining the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), the Saudi-based global body representing Muslim nations and organisations. Issues including the plight of Myanmar's Rohingya and China's mostly Muslim Uighur minority could be discussed, although, with massive Chinese infrastructure in many Islamic nations, criticism may be muted. Also Watch: Plight of Rohingyas is world's fastest-growing refugee crisis × In opening remarks, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani slammed Washington's global clout. "American economic regime, and dollarisation of national and global economies, have provided the United States with the possibility of advancing its hegemony under the threat of sanctions and economic terrorism," he said. The Muslim world needs to be saved "from the domination of the United States dollar, and the American financial regime", he added, calling for greater financial cooperation between Islamic countries. The United States re-imposed crippling sanctions on Iran in 2018 after withdrawing from an international deal aimed at tackling the Islamic republic's nuclear programme. In his welcome address at the Kuala Lumpur event, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said that Muslim countries were "in a state of crisis, helpless and unworthy of this great religion which is meant to be good for mankind". He also insisted summit organisers were "not discriminating (against) or isolating anyone" after the absence of Saudi Arabia triggered speculation the meeting was aimed at countering the kingdom's influence. We have "invited almost all Muslim nations to participate in this summit, albeit at different levels", he said. With Saudi rivals Iran, Qatar and Turkey in attendance, analysts had suggested the meeting could be aimed at forming a rival bloc to the OIC. There were signs Riyadh was worried, with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan withdrawing from the gathering reportedly after Saudi pressure. Mahathir dismissed such concerns in a phone call this week with Saudi Arabia's King Salman. But the OIC, which has 57 members, launched a veiled attack Wednesday on the event, saying such gatherings would weaken Islam.

Iran urges to fight against US 'economic terrorism' at Muslim summit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysias-mahathir-pledges-to-step-down-for-anwar-but-not-before-november-267441">Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad</a> suggested on Saturday he may seek to stay in power after 2020, just four days after he promised to make way for his anointed successor Anwar Ibrahim.

Asked at the Doha Forum in Qatar if he would step down in 2020, the world's oldest prime minister said he wanted to fix problems that he said had been left by the previous government before resigning.

"I promised I would step down once I resolve some of the major problems that have been left by the previous government. I promised I would step down and give the leadership to a candidate named by the coalition," he said.

Mahathir, 94, did not say when he intended to leave office.

On Tuesday, he promised to hand over power to Anwar, in spite of new sexual assault allegations against him, and that he could be ready to do that after a summit of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) countries that Malaysia is to host in November 2020.

Asked if Anwar was the best person to succeed him as prime minister and if he would endorse him, Mahathir said he could not guarantee who would be the best person because of past bad experiences.

"I have named my successors and then they took over and did different things."

Mahathir was unexpectedly elected in 2018 as the head of a coalition government whose largest party is led by Anwar, 72, who has been jailed twice on separate counts of sodomy and for corruption - charges he said were political.

Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad suggested on Saturday he may seek to stay in power after 2020, just four days after he promised to make way for his anointed successor Anwar Ibrahim.

Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad suggested on Saturday he may seek to stay in power after 2020, just four days after he promised to make way for his anointed successor Anwar Ibrahim. Asked at the Doha Forum in Qatar if he would step down in 2020, the world's oldest prime minister said he wanted to fix problems that he said had been left by the previous government before resigning. "I promised I would step down once I resolve some of the major problems that have been left by the previous government. I promised I would step down and give the leadership to a candidate named by the coalition," he said. Mahathir, 94, did not say when he intended to leave office. On Tuesday, he promised to hand over power to Anwar, in spite of new sexual assault allegations against him, and that he could be ready to do that after a summit of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) countries that Malaysia is to host in November 2020. Asked if Anwar was the best person to succeed him as prime minister and if he would endorse him, Mahathir said he could not guarantee who would be the best person because of past bad experiences. "I have named my successors and then they took over and did different things." Mahathir was unexpectedly elected in 2018 as the head of a coalition government whose largest party is led by Anwar, 72, who has been jailed twice on separate counts of sodomy and for corruption - charges he said were political.

Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad suggests he could stay in office beyond 2020

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-roller-coaster-life-of-malaysias-anwar-ibrahim-137700">Anwar&nbsp;Ibrahim</a>, in line to take&nbsp;over&nbsp;Malaysia's&nbsp;premiership, will be called in for&nbsp;questioning&nbsp;over&nbsp;allegations that he had&nbsp;sexually&nbsp;assaulted a former male aide,&nbsp;police&nbsp;said on Wednesday.

Anwar&nbsp;has denied the accusation by the aide, Muhammed Yusoff Rawther, describing it as "politics at its worst".

Muhammed Yusoff is being represented by a lawyer who counts Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/goldman-sachs-has-done-wrong-things-in-1mdb-case-pm-mahathir-mohamad-176997">Mahathir Mohamad</a> among his clients. On Tuesday, Mahathir promised to hand&nbsp;over&nbsp;power to rival-turned-ally&nbsp;Anwar&nbsp;in spite of the latest allegations against him.

Muhammed Yusoff said last week that&nbsp;Anwar&nbsp;had attempted to force him to have sex in September 2018.

Police&nbsp;recorded Muhammed Yusoff's statement on Monday, criminal investigations department director Huzir Mohamed said in a statement.

"Statements from&nbsp;Anwar&nbsp;Ibrahim and several related witnesses will be taken as soon as appropriate appointment times are set," Huzir said.

In a statement to media,&nbsp;Anwar&nbsp;said he was grateful to&nbsp;police&nbsp;for speeding up investigations into the "latest defamatory allegations" against him.

"I would like to stress that I am ready to give my statement to the&nbsp;police&nbsp;immediately to assist in the investigation."

Anwar&nbsp;has spent nearly a decade in jail on two separate counts of sodomy and for corruption, charges that he and his supporters maintain were aimed at ending his political career.

Muhammed Yusoff's lawyer, Mohamed Haniff Khatri Abdulla, denied a conflict of interest in taking on a case against the prime minister's planned successor.

"The prime minister is still my client but that does not mean I should not take on cases just because they involve his ministers or people in his administration," Mohamed Haniff told Reuters.

"I did not speak to (Mahathir) before taking on this case, but we did talk about it afterward. He was surprised but he understood."

Mahathir's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Mohamed Haniff denied charges of a political conspiracy in the allegations against&nbsp;Anwar, saying Muhammed Yusoff stood by his statement.

"It's time to let the&nbsp;police&nbsp;investigate," he said.

Same-sex acts are illegal in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-malaysians-muslims-handed-jail-terms-for-skipping-friday-prayers-266178">Muslim-majority Malaysia</a> and carry penalties of up to 20 years in jail if convicted.

A former deputy premier,&nbsp;Anwar&nbsp;was first sacked and then jailed in 1999 during Mahathir's first 1981-2003 tenure as prime minister.

Mahathir and&nbsp;Anwar&nbsp;mended fences in 2016, joining forces to lead the opposition to an unexpected election victory last year.

&nbsp;

Anwar Ibrahim, in line to take over Malaysia's premiership, will be called in for questioning over allegations that he had sexually assaulted a former male aide, police said on Wednesday.

Anwar Ibrahim, in line to take over Malaysia's premiership, will be called in for questioning over allegations that he had sexually assaulted a former male aide, police said on Wednesday. Anwar has denied the accusation by the aide, Muhammed Yusoff Rawther, describing it as "politics at its worst". Muhammed Yusoff is being represented by a lawyer who counts Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad among his clients. On Tuesday, Mahathir promised to hand over power to rival-turned-ally Anwar in spite of the latest allegations against him. Muhammed Yusoff said last week that Anwar had attempted to force him to have sex in September 2018. Police recorded Muhammed Yusoff's statement on Monday, criminal investigations department director Huzir Mohamed said in a statement. "Statements from Anwar Ibrahim and several related witnesses will be taken as soon as appropriate appointment times are set," Huzir said. In a statement to media, Anwar said he was grateful to police for speeding up investigations into the "latest defamatory allegations" against him. "I would like to stress that I am ready to give my statement to the police immediately to assist in the investigation." Anwar has spent nearly a decade in jail on two separate counts of sodomy and for corruption, charges that he and his supporters maintain were aimed at ending his political career. Muhammed Yusoff's lawyer, Mohamed Haniff Khatri Abdulla, denied a conflict of interest in taking on a case against the prime minister's planned successor. "The prime minister is still my client but that does not mean I should not take on cases just because they involve his ministers or people in his administration," Mohamed Haniff told Reuters. "I did not speak to (Mahathir) before taking on this case, but we did talk about it afterward. He was surprised but he understood." Mahathir's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Mohamed Haniff denied charges of a political conspiracy in the allegations against Anwar, saying Muhammed Yusoff stood by his statement. "It's time to let the police investigate," he said. Same-sex acts are illegal in Muslim-majority Malaysia and carry penalties of up to 20 years in jail if convicted. A former deputy premier, Anwar was first sacked and then jailed in 1999 during Mahathir's first 1981-2003 tenure as prime minister. Mahathir and Anwar mended fences in 2016, joining forces to lead the opposition to an unexpected election victory last year.

Police to question Malaysia's Anwar over sexual assault claim

Malaysia's government on Tuesday tabled a parliamentary bill seeking to set a two-term limit for the premiership, as Prime Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/goldman-sachs-has-done-wrong-things-in-1mdb-case-pm-mahathir-mohamad-176997"> Mahathir Mohamad</a>'s administration seeks to fulfill an election pledge aimed at preventing potential abuses of power.

Last May, Mahathir's Pakatan Harapan coalition won a shock election victory on the back of popular anger over high living costs and perceptions of rampant corruption, particularly allegations that billions of dollars were plundered from state fund 1MDB that was founded by former premier <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/what-najib-razaks-corruption-trial-means-for-malaysia-and-the-region-207838">Najib Razak</a>.

The bill seeks to amend the federal constitution to specify a maximum of two terms for a prime minister and would require support from two-thirds of the 222 elected members of parliament to pass.

It is scheduled to be debated in March next year.

The constitutional amendment was among a raft of election pledges that Mahathir's coalition made, aiming to root out corruption and limit the powers of the prime minister.

Najib, who held power for nearly three terms, faces dozens of graft and money laundering charges over allegations that he received about $1 billion in funds from 1Malaysia Development Berhad. He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

Mahathir, who is in his second stint as prime minister, holds the record for Malaysia's longest-serving premier at 22 years after first holding the post from 1981 until 2003.

Malaysia's government on Tuesday tabled a parliamentary bill seeking to set a two-term limit for the premiership, as Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's administration seeks to fulfill an election pledge aimed at preventing potential abuses of power.

Malaysia's government on Tuesday tabled a parliamentary bill seeking to set a two-term limit for the premiership, as Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's administration seeks to fulfill an election pledge aimed at preventing potential abuses of power. Last May, Mahathir's Pakatan Harapan coalition won a shock election victory on the back of popular anger over high living costs and perceptions of rampant corruption, particularly allegations that billions of dollars were plundered from state fund 1MDB that was founded by former premier Najib Razak. The bill seeks to amend the federal constitution to specify a maximum of two terms for a prime minister and would require support from two-thirds of the 222 elected members of parliament to pass. It is scheduled to be debated in March next year. The constitutional amendment was among a raft of election pledges that Mahathir's coalition made, aiming to root out corruption and limit the powers of the prime minister. Najib, who held power for nearly three terms, faces dozens of graft and money laundering charges over allegations that he received about $1 billion in funds from 1Malaysia Development Berhad. He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. Mahathir, who is in his second stint as prime minister, holds the record for Malaysia's longest-serving premier at 22 years after first holding the post from 1981 until 2003.

Malaysia pushes for two-term limit for prime ministers

Malaysian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahathir-warns-of-possible-trade-sanctions-on-malaysia-257152">Mahathir Mohamad</a> said on Wednesday he would consider a cabinet reshuffle to address growing public discontent over his young government's handling of the country, days after a stinging by-election loss.

His Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition suffered its worst electoral defeat on Saturday since coming to power last May when the opposition scored a more than 15,000-vote majority in a by-election for the Tanjung Piai parliamentary seat.

Mahathir said leaders in his Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) outfit, which contested the by-election under the PH banner, felt a cabinet reshuffle was needed to address public complaints on issues such as high living costs and the economy.

"As the prime minister, I am responsible for a cabinet reshuffle. I have listened to their views, and I will consider their position on having a cabinet reshuffle," Mahathir said at a news conference broadcast on the party's Facebook page.

"But it won't be today or tomorrow, but after we study and consider the achievements and abilities of our current ministers. After that, then we will discuss the possibility of having a cabinet reshuffle."

Saturday's loss was the worst of four by-election setbacks for the ruling coalition, which has been struggling with waning public approval over its management of the country and economy in the past year and a half.

Its popularity plunged to 41 per cent&nbsp;in July, well below the 64 per cent&nbsp;rate recorded when it took over power, according to a survey by independent pollster Merdeka Center.

However, Mahathir said he might not be keen on shaking up his cabinet line-up if it ends up derailing the policies that his government had set out to implement - and especially if it got in the way of Malaysia hosting next year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit.

"The act of reshuffling itself is not a solution. It may be a problem, even. There is still a lot of work to be done," Mahathir said. "Next year we face a big issue in that we are the hosts of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-offer-to-host-apec-not-a-good-idea-malaysia-260620">APEC meeting</a>. We can't take this lightly...We want to prepare ourselves as best as possible."

Violent street protest forced Chile to back out of hosting this year's APEC summit. The US&nbsp;and Chilean governments are discussing co-hosting the gathering in the United States in January, but Malaysia does not support the idea.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Wednesday he would consider a cabinet reshuffle to address growing public discontent over his young government's handling of the country, days after a stinging by-election loss.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Wednesday he would consider a cabinet reshuffle to address growing public discontent over his young government's handling of the country, days after a stinging by-election loss. His Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition suffered its worst electoral defeat on Saturday since coming to power last May when the opposition scored a more than 15,000-vote majority in a by-election for the Tanjung Piai parliamentary seat. Mahathir said leaders in his Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) outfit, which contested the by-election under the PH banner, felt a cabinet reshuffle was needed to address public complaints on issues such as high living costs and the economy. "As the prime minister, I am responsible for a cabinet reshuffle. I have listened to their views, and I will consider their position on having a cabinet reshuffle," Mahathir said at a news conference broadcast on the party's Facebook page. "But it won't be today or tomorrow, but after we study and consider the achievements and abilities of our current ministers. After that, then we will discuss the possibility of having a cabinet reshuffle." Saturday's loss was the worst of four by-election setbacks for the ruling coalition, which has been struggling with waning public approval over its management of the country and economy in the past year and a half. Its popularity plunged to 41 per cent in July, well below the 64 per cent rate recorded when it took over power, according to a survey by independent pollster Merdeka Center. However, Mahathir said he might not be keen on shaking up his cabinet line-up if it ends up derailing the policies that his government had set out to implement - and especially if it got in the way of Malaysia hosting next year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. "The act of reshuffling itself is not a solution. It may be a problem, even. There is still a lot of work to be done," Mahathir said. "Next year we face a big issue in that we are the hosts of the APEC meeting. We can't take this lightly...We want to prepare ourselves as best as possible." Violent street protest forced Chile to back out of hosting this year's APEC summit. The US and Chilean governments are discussing co-hosting the gathering in the United States in January, but Malaysia does not support the idea.

Malaysia's Mahathir says cabinet reshuffle on cards after by-election loss

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Tuesday rejected the claim that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked for controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik to be extradited to India, reported news agency ANI.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Tuesday rejected the claim that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked for controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik to be extradited to India, reported news agency ANI. "Not many countries want him (Naik). India has not insisted. I met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he did not ask me that he wants this man back. This man could be troublesome for India," Mahathir was quoted as saying during an interview with Malaysian radio station BFM`s show, the Breakfast Grille. Indian prime minister and his Malaysian counterpart met on the sidelines of the 5th East Economic Forum in Russia`s Far Eastern city early this month. After their meeting, Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale had said that the two leaders discussed the extradition of Naik. "Prime Minister Modi raised the issue of Zakir Naik`s extradition. Both the parties have decided that our officials will stay in contact regarding the matter and it is an important issue for us," Gokhale had said then. Naik, who has been living in Malaysia for the last three years, is facing charges of inciting communal disharmony and committing unlawful activities in India. He is also facing probe both in India and Bangladesh in connection with the terror attack at the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka on July 2016. Insisting that Naik was given permanent citizenship under the previous government, Mahathir was quoted as saying Kuala Lumpur is trying to find a "place" to send Naik. "Well, he is not a national of this country. He has been given permanent status by the previous government. And permanent citizenship is not supposed to make any comment on his country`s system and politics He has breached that and now he will not be allowed to speak," Mahathir said. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Modi did not ask for extradition of Zakir Naik, claims Malaysian PM

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik has been banned from giving speeches in Malaysia, news agency reported on Tuesday.

Malaysian police on Monday questioned Naik for allegedly making insensitive remarks about race in the multi-ethnic country, as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-can-revoke-zakir-naiks-pr-status-mahathir-mohamad-243514">pressure mounts on authorities to kick him out</a>.

Zakir Naik, a radical television preacher who has called the 9/11 attacks an "inside job", left India in 2016 and moved to Malaysia, where he was granted permanent residency.

Several cabinet ministers have publicly called for Naik to be kicked out, while even Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said he had crossed the line.

Malaysian authorities have initiated an investigation against Naik over his intent to provoke a peace breach by allegedly making sensitive remarks on Hindus and Chinese residing in Muslim-majority nation.

Mahathir said the government will first wait for the results of the police investigation into the alleged inflammatory remarks made by him against minorities in Malaysia, reported Malay Mail.

"He (Naik) has PR status. We can take that away if he does something that is detrimental to the well-being of the nation," said Mahathir.

"At this moment, the police are investigating if he is doing that or not. If he is doing it, then it is necessary for us to take away his PR status," he said.

India said it has made a formal request to Malaysia and will continue to pursue his extradition.

(With inputs from agencies)

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik has been banned from giving speeches in Malaysia, news agency reported on Tuesday. Malaysian police on Monday questioned Naik for allegedly making insensitive remarks about race in the multi-ethnic country, as pressure mounts on authorities to kick him out.

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik has been banned from giving speeches in Malaysia, news agency reported on Tuesday. Malaysian police on Monday questioned Naik for allegedly making insensitive remarks about race in the multi-ethnic country, as pressure mounts on authorities to kick him out. Zakir Naik, a radical television preacher who has called the 9/11 attacks an "inside job", left India in 2016 and moved to Malaysia, where he was granted permanent residency. Several cabinet ministers have publicly called for Naik to be kicked out, while even Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said he had crossed the line. Malaysian authorities have initiated an investigation against Naik over his intent to provoke a peace breach by allegedly making sensitive remarks on Hindus and Chinese residing in Muslim-majority nation. Mahathir said the government will first wait for the results of the police investigation into the alleged inflammatory remarks made by him against minorities in Malaysia, reported Malay Mail. "He (Naik) has PR status. We can take that away if he does something that is detrimental to the well-being of the nation," said Mahathir. "At this moment, the police are investigating if he is doing that or not. If he is doing it, then it is necessary for us to take away his PR status," he said. India said it has made a formal request to Malaysia and will continue to pursue his extradition. (With inputs from agencies)

Controversial preacher Zakir Naik banned from giving speeches in Malaysia: Source

Malaysia can revoke the Permanent Resident (PR) status of controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik should it be proven that his actions harmed the country's 'well-being,'&nbsp;country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Friday.

Mahathir said the government will first wait for the results of the police investigation into the alleged inflammatory remarks made by him against minorities in Malaysia, reported Malay Mail.

"He (Naik) has PR status. We can take that away if he does something that is detrimental to the well-being of the nation," said Mahathir.

"At this moment, the police are investigating if he is doing that or not. If he is doing it, then it is necessary for us to take away his PR status," he said.

Malaysian authorities have initiated an investigation against Naik over his intent to provoke a peace breach by allegedly making sensitive remarks on Hindus and Chinese residing in Muslim-majority nation.

In response to calls for his own deportation, Naik -- during a religious talk titled "Executive Talk Bersama Dr Zakir Naik" -- had asked the Malaysian Chinese to "go back" first as they were the "old guests" of the country.

His speech at the same venue was also condemned by many parties after he compared the Hindus in Malaysia with Muslims in India, saying that the Hindus here enjoyed more than 100 per cent rights as compared to Muslims in India.

"We will need to take action to prevent him from making such speeches, which tend to pit races against each other," Mahathir added.

On being asked whether Naik should issue a public apology for his statement, Mahathir said that he does not think the move would appease the public.

"I don't know about demanding a public apology. I don't think it will assuage the anger of many people," said Mahathir.

"We leave it to the police to investigate the seriousness of the statements that he has made."

Naik was granted PR in Malaysia by the previous government and has been living in the country for the past three years.

He is facing charges of inciting communal disharmony and committing unlawful activities in India.

He is also facing probe both in India and Bangladesh in connection with the terror attack at the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka on July 2016.

India said it has made a formal request to Malaysia and will continue to pursue his extradition.

However, Mahathir had recently said that his country has the right not to extradite Naik, for similar reasons that Australia had turned down his country`s request to extradite Sirul Azhar Umar in 2015.

He also said that Naik believes that he would not be accorded justice in India.

Muslims make up about 60 per cent of its 32 million people in Malaysia.

The rest are mostly ethnic Chinese and Indians, most of whom are Hindus.

Malaysia can revoke the Permanent Resident (PR) status of controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik should it be proven that his actions harmed the country's 'well-being,' country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Friday.

Malaysia can revoke the Permanent Resident (PR) status of controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik should it be proven that his actions harmed the country's 'well-being,' country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Friday. Mahathir said the government will first wait for the results of the police investigation into the alleged inflammatory remarks made by him against minorities in Malaysia, reported Malay Mail. "He (Naik) has PR status. We can take that away if he does something that is detrimental to the well-being of the nation," said Mahathir. "At this moment, the police are investigating if he is doing that or not. If he is doing it, then it is necessary for us to take away his PR status," he said. Malaysian authorities have initiated an investigation against Naik over his intent to provoke a peace breach by allegedly making sensitive remarks on Hindus and Chinese residing in Muslim-majority nation. In response to calls for his own deportation, Naik -- during a religious talk titled "Executive Talk Bersama Dr Zakir Naik" -- had asked the Malaysian Chinese to "go back" first as they were the "old guests" of the country. His speech at the same venue was also condemned by many parties after he compared the Hindus in Malaysia with Muslims in India, saying that the Hindus here enjoyed more than 100 per cent rights as compared to Muslims in India. "We will need to take action to prevent him from making such speeches, which tend to pit races against each other," Mahathir added. On being asked whether Naik should issue a public apology for his statement, Mahathir said that he does not think the move would appease the public. "I don't know about demanding a public apology. I don't think it will assuage the anger of many people," said Mahathir. "We leave it to the police to investigate the seriousness of the statements that he has made." Naik was granted PR in Malaysia by the previous government and has been living in the country for the past three years. He is facing charges of inciting communal disharmony and committing unlawful activities in India. He is also facing probe both in India and Bangladesh in connection with the terror attack at the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka on July 2016. India said it has made a formal request to Malaysia and will continue to pursue his extradition. However, Mahathir had recently said that his country has the right not to extradite Naik, for similar reasons that Australia had turned down his country`s request to extradite Sirul Azhar Umar in 2015. He also said that Naik believes that he would not be accorded justice in India. Muslims make up about 60 per cent of its 32 million people in Malaysia. The rest are mostly ethnic Chinese and Indians, most of whom are Hindus.

Malaysia can revoke Zakir Naik's PR status: Mahathir Mohamad

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/mass-protests-protect-hong-kongs-legal-autonomy-from-china-for-now-228567">China</a> and Malaysia resumed construction on a massive "Belt and Road" train project in northern <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-king-of-malaysia-divorces-ex-miss-moscow-by-triple-talaq-238265">Malaysia</a> on Thursday, after a year-long suspension and following a rare agreement to cut its cost by nearly a third to about $11 billion.

The project was initially cancelled by Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who came to power after a shock election victory in May last year, as he followed through a pledge to renegotiate or cancel "unfair" Chinese mega-projects approved by his predecessor, Najib Razak.

But in April, the close trade partners agreed to proceed with the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) for 44 billion ringgit ($10.7 billion), reducing it from 65.5 billion ringgit.

The 640 km line (398 miles), with China Communications Construction Co Ltd as the lead contractor, will connect Port Klang on the Straits of Malacca with the city of Kota Bharu in northeast peninsular Malaysia.

The agreement to resume work on the project had immediately boosted confidence in Malaysia among foreign investors, China's ambassador to Malaysia said at a ceremony in the coastal district of Dungun.

Flanked by cranes and trucks parked near a partly completed section of a tunnel, Ambassador Bai Tian spoke of "a great wave" of potential Chinese investors coming to Malaysia for field studies, and he expected many of them to decide to invest.

China is debt-heavy Malaysia's biggest trade partner and the countries have close cultural ties too.

Ambassador Bai said the completion of the ECRL, expected by December 2026, could more than double the number of Chinese tourists coming in to Malaysia from 3 million last year.

Malaysia Rail Link, the project's local partner, said in a statement that up to 70 per cent of the workers will be local and that domestic contractors will get 40 per cent of the civil works.

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been praised for its potential to speed up economic development in many developing countries but criticised for potentially saddling many of them with unsustainable debt.

Malaysia's Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng told Reuters on Monday that Beijing had offered them more BRI infrastructure investments and that Kuala Lumpur would consider them "if the pricing is right".

Malaysia is already identifying new joint investment opportunities with China along the ECRL corridor, Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke said at the Dungun event.

China and Malaysia resumed construction on a massive "Belt and Road" train project in northern Malaysia on Thursday, after a year-long suspension and following a rare agreement to cut its cost by nearly a third to about $11 billion.

China and Malaysia resumed construction on a massive "Belt and Road" train project in northern Malaysia on Thursday, after a year-long suspension and following a rare agreement to cut its cost by nearly a third to about $11 billion. The project was initially cancelled by Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who came to power after a shock election victory in May last year, as he followed through a pledge to renegotiate or cancel "unfair" Chinese mega-projects approved by his predecessor, Najib Razak. But in April, the close trade partners agreed to proceed with the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) for 44 billion ringgit ($10.7 billion), reducing it from 65.5 billion ringgit. The 640 km line (398 miles), with China Communications Construction Co Ltd as the lead contractor, will connect Port Klang on the Straits of Malacca with the city of Kota Bharu in northeast peninsular Malaysia. The agreement to resume work on the project had immediately boosted confidence in Malaysia among foreign investors, China's ambassador to Malaysia said at a ceremony in the coastal district of Dungun. Flanked by cranes and trucks parked near a partly completed section of a tunnel, Ambassador Bai Tian spoke of "a great wave" of potential Chinese investors coming to Malaysia for field studies, and he expected many of them to decide to invest. China is debt-heavy Malaysia's biggest trade partner and the countries have close cultural ties too. Ambassador Bai said the completion of the ECRL, expected by December 2026, could more than double the number of Chinese tourists coming in to Malaysia from 3 million last year. Malaysia Rail Link, the project's local partner, said in a statement that up to 70 per cent of the workers will be local and that domestic contractors will get 40 per cent of the civil works. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been praised for its potential to speed up economic development in many developing countries but criticised for potentially saddling many of them with unsustainable debt. Malaysia's Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng told Reuters on Monday that Beijing had offered them more BRI infrastructure investments and that Kuala Lumpur would consider them "if the pricing is right". Malaysia is already identifying new joint investment opportunities with China along the ECRL corridor, Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke said at the Dungun event.

China, Malaysia restart massive 'Belt and Road' project after hiccups

Scores of people have fallen ill and hundreds of schools have been closed in Malaysia due to toxic fumes believed to have come from a chemical factory, authorities said Tuesday.&nbsp;

It was the second serious incident involving poisonous gas in Pasir Gudang district, in southern Johor state, in three months after thousands of people became sick in March when waste was dumped in a river and emitted noxious fumes.

Residents first noticed the fumes wafting across the industrial area late last week and many people, including schoolchildren, started vomiting and developing breathing difficulties.

Johor chief minister Sahruddin Jamal said 75 people had so far been sent to the hospital for treatment, according to official news agency Bernama.

Authorities have now ordered the closure of all 475 educational institutions in the area until Thursday, including three institutes of higher education, 111 public schools, 14 private schools and 347 kindergartens.

The latest incident is not believed to be linked to the first.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad vowed to act against those responsible.

"It seems like there are factories that are not very concerned about safety," he said.

"We have to identify those responsible for causing pollution and take stern action against them."

Residents expressed anger over the latest toxic leak.

"This is also affecting our livelihood as many people are shying away from buying food in this area," Normah Ahmad, a 63-year-old trader, told The Star newspaper.

"I hope the authorities will take this seriously."

It was not clear what had caused the latest incident. Sahruddin said authorities were investigating 30 chemical factories in the area.

After the March incident, three men were arrested and charged over dumping waste.

Scores of people have fallen ill and hundreds of schools have been closed in Malaysia due to toxic fumes believed to have come from a chemical factory, authorities said Tuesday.

Scores of people have fallen ill and hundreds of schools have been closed in Malaysia due to toxic fumes believed to have come from a chemical factory, authorities said Tuesday. It was the second serious incident involving poisonous gas in Pasir Gudang district, in southern Johor state, in three months after thousands of people became sick in March when waste was dumped in a river and emitted noxious fumes. Residents first noticed the fumes wafting across the industrial area late last week and many people, including schoolchildren, started vomiting and developing breathing difficulties. Johor chief minister Sahruddin Jamal said 75 people had so far been sent to the hospital for treatment, according to official news agency Bernama. Authorities have now ordered the closure of all 475 educational institutions in the area until Thursday, including three institutes of higher education, 111 public schools, 14 private schools and 347 kindergartens. The latest incident is not believed to be linked to the first. Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad vowed to act against those responsible. "It seems like there are factories that are not very concerned about safety," he said. "We have to identify those responsible for causing pollution and take stern action against them." Residents expressed anger over the latest toxic leak. "This is also affecting our livelihood as many people are shying away from buying food in this area," Normah Ahmad, a 63-year-old trader, told The Star newspaper. "I hope the authorities will take this seriously." It was not clear what had caused the latest incident. Sahruddin said authorities were investigating 30 chemical factories in the area. After the March incident, three men were arrested and charged over dumping waste.

Scores of students ill, schools closed in Malaysia due to toxic fumes

Southeast Asian leaders gathered in Bangkok on Saturday determined to drive forward the world's largest commercial pact, with the trade war between the US and China clouding the outlook for their export-led economies.

Disputes in the flashpoint the South China Sea, Myanmar's persecution of Rohingya Muslims and plastic pollution in the seas are also set to be discussed at the two-day Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit, chaired by Thailand.

But trade will take centre stage with ASEAN leaders keen to hasten the signing of a China-drafted commercial deal covering around half the world's population.

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) includes all 10 ASEAN economies, plus India, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

It is seen as a mechanism for China to draft the rules of Asia-Pacific trade, following a US retreat from the region.

Shortly after his election, President Donald Trump pulled the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) -- which would have been the world's largest trade deal -- slamming it as an American "job killer".

While tit-for-tat tariffs between the world's biggest two economies have seen some manufacturers flee China to safer ASEAN hubs, economists say the big picture for global growth is bleak.

In that context, "RCEP is key to increasing trade volume", Thai government spokesman Werachon Sukhondhapatipak told reporters.

"The faster it (RCEP) gets implemented the better," Martin M. Andanar, Philippines Communications Secretary, told reporters.

"Free trade is definitely what we need here in this region," he said, adding that the US-China trade row has resulted in "the entire world catching a cold".

Progress on the deal has stuttered in recent months with India digging in over fears cheap Chinese goods could flood its massive consumer market.

Australia and New Zealand have also raised concerns over a lack of labour and environmental safeguards.

Rohingya talks

ASEAN is frequently criticised as a soft forum where diplomatic niceties often outweigh concrete action on pressing problems.

Malaysian leader Mahathir Mohamad on Friday raised the prospect of a joust with Myanmar over the Rohingya, the Muslim minority driven in massive numbers into Bangladesh by waves of concussive violence.

"We hope something can be done to stop the oppression," he said.

Myanmar's de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi is in Bangkok for the weekend meeting.&nbsp;

ASEAN foreign ministers discussed the repatriation of more than 740,000 Rohingya refugees that have fled into Bangladesh, according to Thai foreign minister Don Pramudwinai.&nbsp;

The bloc has come under fire for suggesting the refugees should go back to Myanmar within two years, according to a leaked report seen by AFP -- though virtually none have volunteered to go back so far, citing safety concerns. &nbsp; &nbsp;

"It (repatriation) will be quick, Myanmar knows this process is being watched by everyone," Don told reporters. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The bloc is also poised to agree on a declaration to "prevent and significantly reduce" marine debris -- including plastic -- across the region, according to a draft text seen by AFP.

Though the statement is the first of its kind for the region, which dumps millions of tonnes of plastic waste into the ocean every year, activists fear it doesn't go far enough in curbing single-plastic use.&nbsp;

Regional leaders are also set to tackle thorny South China Sea issues at the weekend meet, with a draft Code of Conduct agreement up for review, though observers doubt any major progress will me made to inch the deal closer to completion.&nbsp;

Discussions around the resource-rich waterway that Beijing claims most of were overshadowed by a recent dust-up in the sea between a Chinese ship that rammed a Filipino fishing boat and caused it to sink.

Manila said a joint investigation into the incident has been launched, adding that the run-in would not derail Code of Conduct talks. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Southeast Asian leaders gathered in Bangkok on Saturday determined to drive forward the world's largest commercial pact, with the trade war between the US and China clouding the outlook for their export-led economies.

Southeast Asian leaders gathered in Bangkok on Saturday determined to drive forward the world's largest commercial pact, with the trade war between the US and China clouding the outlook for their export-led economies. Disputes in the flashpoint the South China Sea, Myanmar's persecution of Rohingya Muslims and plastic pollution in the seas are also set to be discussed at the two-day Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit, chaired by Thailand. But trade will take centre stage with ASEAN leaders keen to hasten the signing of a China-drafted commercial deal covering around half the world's population. The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) includes all 10 ASEAN economies, plus India, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. It is seen as a mechanism for China to draft the rules of Asia-Pacific trade, following a US retreat from the region. Shortly after his election, President Donald Trump pulled the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) -- which would have been the world's largest trade deal -- slamming it as an American "job killer". While tit-for-tat tariffs between the world's biggest two economies have seen some manufacturers flee China to safer ASEAN hubs, economists say the big picture for global growth is bleak. In that context, "RCEP is key to increasing trade volume", Thai government spokesman Werachon Sukhondhapatipak told reporters. "The faster it (RCEP) gets implemented the better," Martin M. Andanar, Philippines Communications Secretary, told reporters. "Free trade is definitely what we need here in this region," he said, adding that the US-China trade row has resulted in "the entire world catching a cold". Progress on the deal has stuttered in recent months with India digging in over fears cheap Chinese goods could flood its massive consumer market. Australia and New Zealand have also raised concerns over a lack of labour and environmental safeguards. Rohingya talks ASEAN is frequently criticised as a soft forum where diplomatic niceties often outweigh concrete action on pressing problems. Malaysian leader Mahathir Mohamad on Friday raised the prospect of a joust with Myanmar over the Rohingya, the Muslim minority driven in massive numbers into Bangladesh by waves of concussive violence. "We hope something can be done to stop the oppression," he said. Myanmar's de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi is in Bangkok for the weekend meeting. ASEAN foreign ministers discussed the repatriation of more than 740,000 Rohingya refugees that have fled into Bangladesh, according to Thai foreign minister Don Pramudwinai. The bloc has come under fire for suggesting the refugees should go back to Myanmar within two years, according to a leaked report seen by AFP -- though virtually none have volunteered to go back so far, citing safety concerns. "It (repatriation) will be quick, Myanmar knows this process is being watched by everyone," Don told reporters. The bloc is also poised to agree on a declaration to "prevent and significantly reduce" marine debris -- including plastic -- across the region, according to a draft text seen by AFP. Though the statement is the first of its kind for the region, which dumps millions of tonnes of plastic waste into the ocean every year, activists fear it doesn't go far enough in curbing single-plastic use. Regional leaders are also set to tackle thorny South China Sea issues at the weekend meet, with a draft Code of Conduct agreement up for review, though observers doubt any major progress will me made to inch the deal closer to completion. Discussions around the resource-rich waterway that Beijing claims most of were overshadowed by a recent dust-up in the sea between a Chinese ship that rammed a Filipino fishing boat and caused it to sink. Manila said a joint investigation into the incident has been launched, adding that the run-in would not derail Code of Conduct talks.

Southeast Asian leaders throw weight behind China-led trade pact

Malaysian Prime minister Mahathir Mohamad on Thursday said Russia is being made a scapegoat in the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, and questioned the objectivity of the investigations into the fatal incident five years ago.

Malaysia's Mahathir Claims Political Ploy To Pin MH17 Downing On Russia

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said that his country has the right not to extradite controversial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/zakir-naik-alleges-political-witch-hunt-after-interpol-takes-up-indias-red-corner-notice-against-him-213362">Islamic preacher Zakir Naik</a> to India, since the fugitive evangelist claims he will not get a fair trial back home, according to a media report.

Naik, a 53-year-old radical television preacher, reportedly left India in 2016 and subsequently moved to largely Malaysia, where he was granted permanent residency.

"Zakir in general feels that he is not going to get a fair trial (in India)," Mahathir was quoted as saying by The Star newspaper.

He compared the situation to Australia refusing to extradite former police commando Sirul Azhar Umar, who was sentenced to death in Malaysia in 2015 for killing a Mongolian model.

"We requested Australia to extradite Sirul and they are afraid we are going to send him to the gallows," the prime minister said.

Naik was booked by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 2016 based on a National Investigation Agency FIR that was registered under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.

The ED last month said that Naik received crores of funds in his and his trusts' bank accounts from unidentified "well wishers" over the years for his speeches that spread "hatred and incited Muslim youths" to take up terrorism.

The Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), Mumbai-based charity trust promoted and controlled by Naik, "allegedly received funds in the form of donations and zakat (a form of alms giving in Islam) from domestic as well as overseas donors from countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Malaysia among others," the ED said.&nbsp;

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said that his country has the right not to extradite controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik to India, since the fugitive evangelist claims he will not get a fair trial back home, according to a media report.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said that his country has the right not to extradite controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik to India, since the fugitive evangelist claims he will not get a fair trial back home, according to a media report. Naik, a 53-year-old radical television preacher, reportedly left India in 2016 and subsequently moved to largely Malaysia, where he was granted permanent residency. "Zakir in general feels that he is not going to get a fair trial (in India)," Mahathir was quoted as saying by The Star newspaper. He compared the situation to Australia refusing to extradite former police commando Sirul Azhar Umar, who was sentenced to death in Malaysia in 2015 for killing a Mongolian model. "We requested Australia to extradite Sirul and they are afraid we are going to send him to the gallows," the prime minister said. Naik was booked by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 2016 based on a National Investigation Agency FIR that was registered under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. The ED last month said that Naik received crores of funds in his and his trusts' bank accounts from unidentified "well wishers" over the years for his speeches that spread "hatred and incited Muslim youths" to take up terrorism. The Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), Mumbai-based charity trust promoted and controlled by Naik, "allegedly received funds in the form of donations and zakat (a form of alms giving in Islam) from domestic as well as overseas donors from countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Malaysia among others," the ED said.

Malaysia has right not to extradite Zakir Naik to India: PM Mahathir Mohamad

A year ago, Malaysian land surveyor Muhammad Nur Aliff had high hopes that a shock election victory by 93-year-old <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysias-ruling-coalition-loses-state-by-election-as-support-wanes-210190&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi3_ruatpDiAhXBNI8KHYoVDbkQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3DINr-9K6tm1La2yTLxV3n">Mahathir Mohamad</a> could be the catalyst for reform and revival in a country hobbled by sky-high public debt and corruption.

But polls show that such optimism has been steadily eroded since the election upset, in which the GDP growth in Malaysia(UMNO) was removed from power for the first time in 60 years and replaced by Mahathir and the patchwork Pakatan Harapan coalition.

Mahathir, who inherited a debt-laden economy, has focused much of his administration`s attention on cleaning up public finances following a multibillion-dollar corruption scandal involving state fund 1MDB and former prime minister Najib Razak.

Najib is facing charges but denies any wrongdoing. Meanwhile, deep divisions within the ruling coalition have curbed efforts to boost government revenue, attract investment or create jobs.

Support for the government fell to just 39 per cent in March, sharply down from the 66 per cent rating in August 2018, according to a survey by independent pollster Merdeka Center.

Mahathir also saw his popularity plunge to 46 per cent from 71 per cent over the same period, although he says he doesn`t put much faith in these numbers.

Worryingly for Mahathir, Merdeka Center said Malay Muslims, who make up around 60 per cent of Malaysia`s 32 million people, were largely more critical of his administration.

Most of the poorest people in the country are Malay and for decades they have been the beneficiaries of subsidies and other affirmative action policies pushed by UMNO.

Many in the majority community were also angered when Mahathir appointed an ethnic Chinese finance minister and an attorney-general from the Malaysian-Indian minority and said cash handouts to Malays could be reduced.

Pledges to end the death penalty and rescind oppressive laws such as the colonial-era Sedition Act were also unpopular with traditionalists.

"Many young people placed a lot of hope in this new government, but we haven`t seen anything that we had hoped for," said Aliff, 28, protesting in the capital last week with hundreds of other Malays. "We want to ensure a better future for young people, especially young Malays."&nbsp;

REFORM U-TURN

Following protests by Malays and a series of by-election defeats for the ruling Pakatan coalition this year, many of these planned policies have been put on the backburner.&nbsp;

In recent months, Malaysia has rolled back efforts to abolish the death penalty and revoke repressive security laws, as well as reversed plans to ratify two UN&nbsp;human rights treaties, after pro-Malay groups raised objections.&nbsp;

But UMNO and members of the opposition Islamist party PAS have been quick to remind voters of what they describe as Mahathir`s failure to uphold Islam and protect Malay interests.

"Pakatan is unpopular with the Malay-Muslim electorate," said Adib Zalkalpi, a Malaysia director with political risk consultancy Bower Group Asia.

"UMNO and PAS have formed a credible opposition front to challenge the government by exploiting communal sentiments."&nbsp;

Reform ambitions are also hampered by fractures within Pakatan, a coalition of parties that were aligned in its goal of removing Najib and UMNO, but doesn`t seem to agree on much else.

"Everyone is working in silos. Everyone has a general idea of the problems we face but there really are no discussions going on," said a senior government source, who asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the topic.

"We don`t have a common narrative to counter the opposition`s racial rhetoric."&nbsp;Mahathir says accusations the coalition is dysfunctional are false.

"Our attention is directed at correcting all the mistakes of the previous government. That has taken much of our time," he told reporters on Thursday.

INVESTOR CONCERNS&nbsp;

Business sentiment has cooled after initial optimism that followed Pakatan`s electoral win, due mainly to a lack of consensus on the way forward for the economy, according to an April survey of 250 businesses by Ipsos Business Consulting.

"The continued lack of clarity on economic policies may lead to the increased level of anxiety among the businesses and further intensify the fear of an economic slowdown," the firm said its report.&nbsp;

Investors in the survey also expressed concerns over currency fluctuations and slowing economic growth. The ringgit currency has slumped this year and stocks are underperforming regional rivals.

Malaysia has had to fill a revenue shortfall stemming from a populist measure to scrap a goods and services tax last year, while efforts to turn around struggling state entities that burden the treasury, including long-suffering Malaysia Airlines, have faltered.&nbsp;

In March, Malaysia`s central bank cut its 2019 economic growth forecast to 4.3-4.8 per cent from 4.9 per cent, on expectations of a significant drop in export expansion due to slowing global growth and the US-China trade war.

On Tuesday, Bank Negara Malaysia became the first central bank in the region to cut its benchmark interest rate, in a move to support the country`s economy. Mahathir has mended ties with China, reaching a cut-price $11 billion rail link deal, which is a welcome investment boost.

But with Malaysia`s debt-to-GDP ratio around 50 per cent, public support waning and an unstable ruling coalition, it will become increasingly difficult for Mahathir to boost economic growth and win back disillusioned voters.

"With exports likely to remain in the doldrums, GDP growth in Malaysia looks set to slow to a post-financial crisis low this year. The government`s recent policies will make the downturn even worse," Capital Economics said in a research note on Wednesday.

&nbsp;

A year ago, Malaysian land surveyor Muhammad Nur Aliff had high hopes that a shock election victory by 93-year-old Mahathir Mohamad could be the catalyst for reform and revival in a country hobbled by sky-high public debt and corruption.

A year ago, Malaysian land surveyor Muhammad Nur Aliff had high hopes that a shock election victory by 93-year-old Mahathir Mohamad could be the catalyst for reform and revival in a country hobbled by sky-high public debt and corruption. But polls show that such optimism has been steadily eroded since the election upset, in which the GDP growth in Malaysia(UMNO) was removed from power for the first time in 60 years and replaced by Mahathir and the patchwork Pakatan Harapan coalition. Mahathir, who inherited a debt-laden economy, has focused much of his administration`s attention on cleaning up public finances following a multibillion-dollar corruption scandal involving state fund 1MDB and former prime minister Najib Razak. Najib is facing charges but denies any wrongdoing. Meanwhile, deep divisions within the ruling coalition have curbed efforts to boost government revenue, attract investment or create jobs. Support for the government fell to just 39 per cent in March, sharply down from the 66 per cent rating in August 2018, according to a survey by independent pollster Merdeka Center. Mahathir also saw his popularity plunge to 46 per cent from 71 per cent over the same period, although he says he doesn`t put much faith in these numbers. Worryingly for Mahathir, Merdeka Center said Malay Muslims, who make up around 60 per cent of Malaysia`s 32 million people, were largely more critical of his administration. Most of the poorest people in the country are Malay and for decades they have been the beneficiaries of subsidies and other affirmative action policies pushed by UMNO. Many in the majority community were also angered when Mahathir appointed an ethnic Chinese finance minister and an attorney-general from the Malaysian-Indian minority and said cash handouts to Malays could be reduced. Pledges to end the death penalty and rescind oppressive laws such as the colonial-era Sedition Act were also unpopular with traditionalists. "Many young people placed a lot of hope in this new government, but we haven`t seen anything that we had hoped for," said Aliff, 28, protesting in the capital last week with hundreds of other Malays. "We want to ensure a better future for young people, especially young Malays." REFORM U-TURN Following protests by Malays and a series of by-election defeats for the ruling Pakatan coalition this year, many of these planned policies have been put on the backburner. In recent months, Malaysia has rolled back efforts to abolish the death penalty and revoke repressive security laws, as well as reversed plans to ratify two UN human rights treaties, after pro-Malay groups raised objections. But UMNO and members of the opposition Islamist party PAS have been quick to remind voters of what they describe as Mahathir`s failure to uphold Islam and protect Malay interests. "Pakatan is unpopular with the Malay-Muslim electorate," said Adib Zalkalpi, a Malaysia director with political risk consultancy Bower Group Asia. "UMNO and PAS have formed a credible opposition front to challenge the government by exploiting communal sentiments." Reform ambitions are also hampered by fractures within Pakatan, a coalition of parties that were aligned in its goal of removing Najib and UMNO, but doesn`t seem to agree on much else. "Everyone is working in silos. Everyone has a general idea of the problems we face but there really are no discussions going on," said a senior government source, who asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the topic. "We don`t have a common narrative to counter the opposition`s racial rhetoric." Mahathir says accusations the coalition is dysfunctional are false. "Our attention is directed at correcting all the mistakes of the previous government. That has taken much of our time," he told reporters on Thursday. INVESTOR CONCERNS Business sentiment has cooled after initial optimism that followed Pakatan`s electoral win, due mainly to a lack of consensus on the way forward for the economy, according to an April survey of 250 businesses by Ipsos Business Consulting. "The continued lack of clarity on economic policies may lead to the increased level of anxiety among the businesses and further intensify the fear of an economic slowdown," the firm said its report. Investors in the survey also expressed concerns over currency fluctuations and slowing economic growth. The ringgit currency has slumped this year and stocks are underperforming regional rivals. Malaysia has had to fill a revenue shortfall stemming from a populist measure to scrap a goods and services tax last year, while efforts to turn around struggling state entities that burden the treasury, including long-suffering Malaysia Airlines, have faltered. In March, Malaysia`s central bank cut its 2019 economic growth forecast to 4.3-4.8 per cent from 4.9 per cent, on expectations of a significant drop in export expansion due to slowing global growth and the US-China trade war. On Tuesday, Bank Negara Malaysia became the first central bank in the region to cut its benchmark interest rate, in a move to support the country`s economy. Mahathir has mended ties with China, reaching a cut-price $11 billion rail link deal, which is a welcome investment boost. But with Malaysia`s debt-to-GDP ratio around 50 per cent, public support waning and an unstable ruling coalition, it will become increasingly difficult for Mahathir to boost economic growth and win back disillusioned voters. "With exports likely to remain in the doldrums, GDP growth in Malaysia looks set to slow to a post-financial crisis low this year. The government`s recent policies will make the downturn even worse," Capital Economics said in a research note on Wednesday.

Malaysia's hopes of economic revival under Mahathir fade

Malaysia's ruling coalition lost a state constituency in a by-election on Saturday in a further sign of declining public support for Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's alliance.

It is the third defeat for Mahathir's Pakatan Harapan coalition, or Alliance of Hope, in local elections since it took power in May last year.

Its candidate, Streram Sinnasamy, lost the Rantau constituency in Negeri Sembilan state by 4,510 votes to Mohamad Hasan, the acting chairman of Barisan Nasional, the main opposition coalition.

Mohamad was appointed to the post after scandal-plagued former prime minister Najib Razak led Barisan Nasional to its first defeat in more than 60 years in last year's national election.

Mohamad had won Rantau unopposed in 2018, but a Malaysian court later found errors in electoral procedure and called for a new poll.

His win is the latest blow for Mahathir's coalition, which has faced criticism for failing to deliver on promised reforms and protecting the rights of majority ethnic Malay Muslims.

Polls consistently show that the coalition has been losing support among the Malays, some of whom fear that affirmative-action policies favouring them in business, education and housing could be taken away.

Anwar Ibrahim, a former deputy prime minister who is widely expected to succeed Mahathir, had actively campaigned in Rantau in a bid to garner support away from Mohamad, seen as a highly popular figure among Malays.

Meanwhile, Najib, an active public presence during two previous by-elections, was largely absent on the Rantau campaign trial as he faced the first of several corruption trials earlier this month.

Najib is facing more than 40 charges of money laundering and other offences over the alleged loss of billions of dollars from state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad.

Malaysia's ruling coalition lost a state constituency in a by-election on Saturday in a further sign of declining public support for Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's alliance.

Malaysia's ruling coalition lost a state constituency in a by-election on Saturday in a further sign of declining public support for Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's alliance. It is the third defeat for Mahathir's Pakatan Harapan coalition, or Alliance of Hope, in local elections since it took power in May last year. Its candidate, Streram Sinnasamy, lost the Rantau constituency in Negeri Sembilan state by 4,510 votes to Mohamad Hasan, the acting chairman of Barisan Nasional, the main opposition coalition. Mohamad was appointed to the post after scandal-plagued former prime minister Najib Razak led Barisan Nasional to its first defeat in more than 60 years in last year's national election. Mohamad had won Rantau unopposed in 2018, but a Malaysian court later found errors in electoral procedure and called for a new poll. His win is the latest blow for Mahathir's coalition, which has faced criticism for failing to deliver on promised reforms and protecting the rights of majority ethnic Malay Muslims. Polls consistently show that the coalition has been losing support among the Malays, some of whom fear that affirmative-action policies favouring them in business, education and housing could be taken away. Anwar Ibrahim, a former deputy prime minister who is widely expected to succeed Mahathir, had actively campaigned in Rantau in a bid to garner support away from Mohamad, seen as a highly popular figure among Malays. Meanwhile, Najib, an active public presence during two previous by-elections, was largely absent on the Rantau campaign trial as he faced the first of several corruption trials earlier this month. Najib is facing more than 40 charges of money laundering and other offences over the alleged loss of billions of dollars from state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad.

Malaysia's ruling coalition loses state by-election as support wanes

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-eyes-900-million-investment-deals-during-malaysian-pms-visit-204687">Pakistan and Malaysia</a> Friday agreed to elevate their bilateral relation to strategic level and decided to strengthen economic and commercial ties as Prime Minister Imran Khan held talks with his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohamad here.

The deliberations are part of Malaysian Prime Minister's ongoing 3-day visit to the Muslim-majority nation. He arrived in Islamabad on Thursday.

Mahathir held talks with Khan at one-on-one and delegation level, according to a joint statement.

"Both Leaders agreed that the existing relations between Pakistan-Malaysia be elevated to a strategic partnership. It marked a new level of the bilateral cooperation between both countries in various fields, namely trade in palm oil, agricultural products, food retail, halal products, automotive parts, energy, science and technology, and telecommunication investment," according to joint statement.

Both sides reaffirmed their shared desire to maintain close high-level contacts, deepen friendly exchanges of visits and cooperation in all fields, as well as, to actively promote Pakistan-Malaysia relations.

The two side agreed to promote cooperation in the automotive industry and the two Prime Ministers jointly officiated the symbolic ground-breaking ceremony of PROTON plant in Islamabad to boost the manufacturing and services industry for both countries.

The two nations reaffirmed the importance of the cooperation between the private sectors of both countries and both leaders witnessed the signing of agreements and Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) for investment and cooperation, particularly in the telecommunication sector.

Earlier, Advisor to Prime Minister Khan on Commerce Razzak Dawood said that MoUs worth USD 800-900 million would be singed but their exact worth was not declared after signing ceremony.

However, Finance Minister Asad Umar told the media that MoUs were about five big projects?. He also said that Malaysia was interested in buying JF-17 Thunder jets from Pakistan.

Umar also said that Pakistan would provide anti-tank missiles to Malaysia.&nbsp;

According to the joint statement, the two leaders acknowledged that MoU singed for the investment would serve to promote and strengthen the economic ties between both countries.

Malaysia expressed hope that Pakistan would continue to import more Malaysian palm oil and palm oil-based products, as well as, remove any non-tariff barriers on Malaysian goods and products.

Both stressed that terrorism cannot be associated with any religion or belief.&nbsp;

The two leaders also spoke against rising Islamophobia and agreed that steps should be taken to address this issue.

"Pakistan and Malaysia both understand the need to find ways to combat Islamophobia. This is our priority. We must work to improve the perception of Muslims in the world. We must change the prevailing atmosphere of fear. We must also realise that fighting back does not always mean killing each other," said Mahathir.

Mahathir will be the guest of honour at Pakistan Day parade on Saturday.

Pakistan and Malaysia Friday agreed to elevate their bilateral relation to strategic level and decided to strengthen economic and commercial ties as Prime Minister Imran Khan held talks with his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohamad here.

Pakistan and Malaysia Friday agreed to elevate their bilateral relation to strategic level and decided to strengthen economic and commercial ties as Prime Minister Imran Khan held talks with his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohamad here. The deliberations are part of Malaysian Prime Minister's ongoing 3-day visit to the Muslim-majority nation. He arrived in Islamabad on Thursday. Mahathir held talks with Khan at one-on-one and delegation level, according to a joint statement. "Both Leaders agreed that the existing relations between Pakistan-Malaysia be elevated to a strategic partnership. It marked a new level of the bilateral cooperation between both countries in various fields, namely trade in palm oil, agricultural products, food retail, halal products, automotive parts, energy, science and technology, and telecommunication investment," according to joint statement. Both sides reaffirmed their shared desire to maintain close high-level contacts, deepen friendly exchanges of visits and cooperation in all fields, as well as, to actively promote Pakistan-Malaysia relations. The two side agreed to promote cooperation in the automotive industry and the two Prime Ministers jointly officiated the symbolic ground-breaking ceremony of PROTON plant in Islamabad to boost the manufacturing and services industry for both countries. The two nations reaffirmed the importance of the cooperation between the private sectors of both countries and both leaders witnessed the signing of agreements and Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) for investment and cooperation, particularly in the telecommunication sector. Earlier, Advisor to Prime Minister Khan on Commerce Razzak Dawood said that MoUs worth USD 800-900 million would be singed but their exact worth was not declared after signing ceremony. However, Finance Minister Asad Umar told the media that MoUs were about five big projects?. He also said that Malaysia was interested in buying JF-17 Thunder jets from Pakistan. Umar also said that Pakistan would provide anti-tank missiles to Malaysia. According to the joint statement, the two leaders acknowledged that MoU singed for the investment would serve to promote and strengthen the economic ties between both countries. Malaysia expressed hope that Pakistan would continue to import more Malaysian palm oil and palm oil-based products, as well as, remove any non-tariff barriers on Malaysian goods and products. Both stressed that terrorism cannot be associated with any religion or belief. The two leaders also spoke against rising Islamophobia and agreed that steps should be taken to address this issue. "Pakistan and Malaysia both understand the need to find ways to combat Islamophobia. This is our priority. We must work to improve the perception of Muslims in the world. We must change the prevailing atmosphere of fear. We must also realise that fighting back does not always mean killing each other," said Mahathir. Mahathir will be the guest of honour at Pakistan Day parade on Saturday.

Pakistan, Malaysia agree to elevate their bilateral relation to strategic level 

Pakistan is set to sign deals worth $900 million in telecoms, information technology during a three-day visit by Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, a senior official said on Thursday.

Pakistan, facing an economic crisis due to depleting foreign reserves and a widening current account deficit, has been searching for investment since the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan took office in August.

Razak Dawood, the prime minister's advisor on commerce said a memorandum of understanding covering $800-$900 million worth of investments with Malaysian investors would be signed on Friday.

"We believe Malaysia will be an opening for us to the ASEAN countries," he said, referring to the Association of South East Asian Nations.

Mahathir is scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on Thursday evening and will be the chief guest at the Pakistan day parade on March 23.

Pakistan has been seeking financial assistance and calling for investment from friendly countries, while also negotiating a bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have each offered Islamabad loan packages of $3 billion.

During a visit in February, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed investment agreements worth $20 billion with Islamabad, including a $10 billion refinery and petrochemicals complex in the southwestern port city of Gwadar.

Pakistan has also been trying to get loans from neighbouring China, which has pledged nearly $60 billion for energy and road and rail infrastructure projects as part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), known as China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

In February the government said it was close to securing an IMF package, its 13th bailout since the late 1980s, but while talks between the two sides are ongoing no deal has been agreed.

Pakistan is set to sign deals worth $900 million in telecoms, information technology during a three-day visit by Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, a senior official said on Thursday.

Pakistan is set to sign deals worth $900 million in telecoms, information technology during a three-day visit by Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, a senior official said on Thursday. Pakistan, facing an economic crisis due to depleting foreign reserves and a widening current account deficit, has been searching for investment since the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan took office in August. Razak Dawood, the prime minister's advisor on commerce said a memorandum of understanding covering $800-$900 million worth of investments with Malaysian investors would be signed on Friday. "We believe Malaysia will be an opening for us to the ASEAN countries," he said, referring to the Association of South East Asian Nations. Mahathir is scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on Thursday evening and will be the chief guest at the Pakistan day parade on March 23. Pakistan has been seeking financial assistance and calling for investment from friendly countries, while also negotiating a bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have each offered Islamabad loan packages of $3 billion. During a visit in February, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed investment agreements worth $20 billion with Islamabad, including a $10 billion refinery and petrochemicals complex in the southwestern port city of Gwadar. Pakistan has also been trying to get loans from neighbouring China, which has pledged nearly $60 billion for energy and road and rail infrastructure projects as part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), known as China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). In February the government said it was close to securing an IMF package, its 13th bailout since the late 1980s, but while talks between the two sides are ongoing no deal has been agreed.

Pakistan eyes $900 million investment deals during Malaysian PM's visit

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has branded Israel a "criminal state", hitting back at a decision to strip Malaysia of the right to host a major swimming event for refusing to let Israelis participate.&nbsp;

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced at the weekend that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/malaysia-stripped-of-world-para-swim-event-over-israel-stance-193562">Malaysia would no longer be staging the 2019 World </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/malaysia-stripped-of-world-para-swim-event-over-israel-stance-193562">Para Swimming</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/malaysia-stripped-of-world-para-swim-event-over-israel-stance-193562"> Championships</a> as authorities had failed to provide guarantees that Israelis could take part.&nbsp;

The championships, a qualifying event for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, were due to take place in Kuching from July 29-August 4.&nbsp;

Muslim-majority Malaysia has no diplomatic relations with the Jewish state and entry to the country on an Israeli passport is forbidden, but the IPC had received assurances in 2017 that all eligible athletes would be able to participate in the event.&nbsp;

However, the situation changed after a new government headed by 93-year-old Mahathir, long notorious for his tirades against Israel and Jews, came to power in Malaysia last year.&nbsp;

Following the IPC decision, Mahathir struck a defiant note, with a long entry on his blog listing examples of what he claimed was unfair treatment of the Palestinians by Israel.&nbsp;

"Israel is a criminal state and deserves to be condemned," he wrote late Monday.&nbsp;

"We maintain we have a right to bar Israelis from our country. When the world condemns us for this, we have a right to say that the world is being hypocritical."&nbsp;

At least 245 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since March, mostly during protests and border clashes but also by tank fire and air strikes. Two Israeli soldiers have also been killed.&nbsp;

Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accuse Hamas of orchestrating the protests and argue that Israel's actions are aimed at defending the border.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Polish swimmer Bart Kizierowski -- who represented his country at four Olympics -- pulled out of a job coaching the Malaysian team due to the refusal to allow Israelis to attend the tournament, local media reported.&nbsp;

In a Facebook post, Kizierowski said he rejected the position due to Malaysia's refusal to grant visas to some athletes, adding: "There is no place for that in sport."&nbsp;

The Star newspaper reported that sports officials in Malaysia had already announced his appointment.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has branded Israel a "criminal state", hitting back at a decision to strip Malaysia of the right to host a major swimming event for refusing to let Israelis participate.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has branded Israel a "criminal state", hitting back at a decision to strip Malaysia of the right to host a major swimming event for refusing to let Israelis participate. The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced at the weekend that Malaysia would no longer be staging the 2019 World Para Swimming Championships as authorities had failed to provide guarantees that Israelis could take part. The championships, a qualifying event for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, were due to take place in Kuching from July 29-August 4. Muslim-majority Malaysia has no diplomatic relations with the Jewish state and entry to the country on an Israeli passport is forbidden, but the IPC had received assurances in 2017 that all eligible athletes would be able to participate in the event. However, the situation changed after a new government headed by 93-year-old Mahathir, long notorious for his tirades against Israel and Jews, came to power in Malaysia last year. Following the IPC decision, Mahathir struck a defiant note, with a long entry on his blog listing examples of what he claimed was unfair treatment of the Palestinians by Israel. "Israel is a criminal state and deserves to be condemned," he wrote late Monday. "We maintain we have a right to bar Israelis from our country. When the world condemns us for this, we have a right to say that the world is being hypocritical." At least 245 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since March, mostly during protests and border clashes but also by tank fire and air strikes. Two Israeli soldiers have also been killed. Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accuse Hamas of orchestrating the protests and argue that Israel's actions are aimed at defending the border. Meanwhile, Polish swimmer Bart Kizierowski -- who represented his country at four Olympics -- pulled out of a job coaching the Malaysian team due to the refusal to allow Israelis to attend the tournament, local media reported. In a Facebook post, Kizierowski said he rejected the position due to Malaysia's refusal to grant visas to some athletes, adding: "There is no place for that in sport." The Star newspaper reported that sports officials in Malaysia had already announced his appointment.

Malaysia PM defiant after losing swim event over Israel stance

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-seeks-return-of-airspace-control-amid-singapore-flight-path-dispute-181446">Singapore warned Malaysia</a> Monday it was ready to defend its interests after a flare-up of maritime tensions, the latest sign of fraying ties since a change of government in Kuala Lumpur.

The neighbours have had testy relations since Malaysia evicted the island from the Malaysian Federation in 1965, ending a brief and stormy union of the former British colonies.

Ties have gone up and down over the years but have been shaky since Malaysia's Mahathir Mohamad — who has long had a prickly relationship with Singapore — returned to the premiership with a shock election victory last year.&nbsp;

Tensions rose in recent weeks after purported intrusions by Malaysian vessels into Singapore waters, and the city-state proposed new landing procedures at an airport that Kuala Lumpur claimed would lead to violations of its airspace.&nbsp;

In the latest incident, the chief minister of Johor — the state closest to Singapore — visited a Malaysian ship anchored inside what the city-state claims are its waters. Singapore called off a scheduled meeting of officials from both countries in protest.

In a speech to parliament, Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan warned: "We will always take appropriate measures to safeguard our interests, and any country dealing with Singapore must not assume that it is cost-free to embark on any adventures or antics against us.

"There will be consequences."

Tensions eased last week when foreign ministers from both countries agreed during a meeting in Singapore to take steps to calm the airspace and maritime rows, but the Johor chief minister's visit has raised the temperature again.

Balakrishnan said Singapore looked forward to resolving issues amicably and stressed that the strength of its diplomacy depends on "domestic unity and resilience and the fact that we cannot be intimidated or bought".

Ties were warm between the neighbours under the last Malaysian leader Najib Razak, but have quickly started to fray since the return of Mahathir, 93, who had the first stint as premier from 1981 to 2003.&nbsp;

Some observers trace Mahathir's long-running animosity towards Singapore back to his fractious relationship with the city-state's founding leader Lee Kuan Yew.

During his first stint in office, rows erupted frequently over everything from water -- Singapore gets much of its water supply from Malaysia — to the Malaysian leader's plan to build a bridge connecting the neighbours to replace the current causeway. The project never took off.

Tensions rose in recent weeks after purported intrusions by Malaysian vessels into Singapore waters, and the city-state proposed new landing procedures at an airport that Kuala Lumpur claimed would lead to violations of its airspace.

Singapore warned Malaysia Monday it was ready to defend its interests after a flare-up of maritime tensions, the latest sign of fraying ties since a change of government in Kuala Lumpur. The neighbours have had testy relations since Malaysia evicted the island from the Malaysian Federation in 1965, ending a brief and stormy union of the former British colonies. Ties have gone up and down over the years but have been shaky since Malaysia's Mahathir Mohamad — who has long had a prickly relationship with Singapore — returned to the premiership with a shock election victory last year. Tensions rose in recent weeks after purported intrusions by Malaysian vessels into Singapore waters, and the city-state proposed new landing procedures at an airport that Kuala Lumpur claimed would lead to violations of its airspace. In the latest incident, the chief minister of Johor — the state closest to Singapore — visited a Malaysian ship anchored inside what the city-state claims are its waters. Singapore called off a scheduled meeting of officials from both countries in protest. In a speech to parliament, Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan warned: "We will always take appropriate measures to safeguard our interests, and any country dealing with Singapore must not assume that it is cost-free to embark on any adventures or antics against us. "There will be consequences." Tensions eased last week when foreign ministers from both countries agreed during a meeting in Singapore to take steps to calm the airspace and maritime rows, but the Johor chief minister's visit has raised the temperature again. Balakrishnan said Singapore looked forward to resolving issues amicably and stressed that the strength of its diplomacy depends on "domestic unity and resilience and the fact that we cannot be intimidated or bought". Ties were warm between the neighbours under the last Malaysian leader Najib Razak, but have quickly started to fray since the return of Mahathir, 93, who had the first stint as premier from 1981 to 2003. Some observers trace Mahathir's long-running animosity towards Singapore back to his fractious relationship with the city-state's founding leader Lee Kuan Yew. During his first stint in office, rows erupted frequently over everything from water -- Singapore gets much of its water supply from Malaysia — to the Malaysian leader's plan to build a bridge connecting the neighbours to replace the current causeway. The project never took off.

Singapore warns Malaysia as maritime tensions flare