Latest news with #Assoc
Bangkok Post
2 days ago
- Politics
- Bangkok Post
Thai activist says King can't be politicised
Wirangrong Dabbaransi, head of the Network of Universities for Reform, has called on academics to withdraw their royal petition seeking intervention from His Majesty the King in Thailand's political crisis. She warned that such a move risks politicising the monarchy and undermining constitutional processes. The petition, led by Assoc Prof Arnond Sakworawich of the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida) and signed by 55 academics, urges royal involvement in resolving political tensions surrounding the Thai-Cambodian border conflict. It is scheduled for submission on Friday. In a strongly worded Facebook post, Ms Wirangrong argued that the monarchy must remain above politics. "These disputes should be resolved through legal and constitutional channels, not by burdening the monarchy," she said, noting that the King has always supported the nation through quiet, wise actions. She cautioned that such a petition could drag the monarchy into partisan conflict, pointing out that the King's advisors, the Privy Council, have never advocated royal intervention in political matters. Ms Wirangrong urged all sides to wait for the outcome of ongoing legal proceedings involving Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, including a Constitutional Court ruling due July 1 and investigations by the National Anti-Corruption Commission. She also appealed to Constitutional Court judges to rule strictly according to the law, saying that public trust in the judiciary is key to avoiding extra-legal petitions that could disturb the monarchy. "If the people trust the courts, no one would feel compelled to appeal to the King," she said. Questioning the legality of the petition, Ms Wirangrong noted that the 2017 constitution does not grant the King power to appoint or remove governments. Referring to Section 5, which allows traditional practices only when the constitution is silent, she argued that constitutional mechanisms are already in place and should be followed. She also raised concerns about the rushed nature of the petition, launched just days before its submission and ahead of planned protests, suggesting it may be politically motivated. The campaign, she warned, could unintentionally pave the way for controversial legislation, especially the political amnesty bill supported by the Pheu Thai Party and the Move Forward Party. Despite the good intentions of some petitioners, Ms Wirangrong appealed for them to withdraw their support. She suggested joining peaceful demonstrations on Saturday.
The Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysia targets RM60b GDP boost from landscape industry by 2030
PETALING JAYA : The landscape industry should no longer be viewed as purely cosmetic or decorative, but as a strategic national investment in climate resilience, public health and cultural identity, says the Institute of Landscape Architects Malaysia. Its president, Assoc Prof Dr Nor Atiah Ismail said landscape architecture has become a key pillar of sustainable development, contributing significantly to economic growth and environmental protection. 'It is not a distant ambition. It is a clear call to action for Malaysia to mobilise our national strengths – our design expertise, biodiversity and professional innovation – for both local and regional impact,' she told theSun. On June 19, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming announced that under the newly updated National Landscape Policy, the government is targeting the landscape industry to contribute RM60 billion, or 3% to the country's gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030. He said the sector had already contributed RM39.4 billion, or 2%, to the GDP last year, an increase from RM35.68 billion in 2023. Nga added that the ministry would continue working to unlock the sector's full potential, aiming to transform it into a strategic economic force that not only enhances aesthetics and quality of life, but also creates jobs and income. Nor Atiah said the timing is right for Malaysia to position itself as a regional leader in sustainable landscape services, nature-based solutions and tropical floriculture exports. She cited industry estimates that placed the global landscaping services market at US$296 billion (RM1.39 trillion) in 2023, with projections rising to US$400 billion (RM1.88 trillion) by 2030. 'Growth in the Asia-Pacific region is especially strong, driven by rapid urbanisation, climate risks and the need for resilient green infrastructure.' Nor Atiah, who also serves on the executive committee of the International Federation of Landscape Architects Asia-Pacific, said Malaysian professionals are already playing a key role in high-value areas such as healthcare design, ESG-compliant (environment, social, governance) infrastructure, tourism planning and heritage revitalisation. 'They are not decorative works. They are part of a new green economy, where well-designed environments improve public health, attract investment and strengthen resilience to climate shocks. 'While the National Landscape Policy offers a solid foundation, it must now be fully operationalised across federal and state levels and aligned with national development frameworks such as the National Energy Transition roadmap and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.' Nor Atiah proposed several strategic actions, including improved policy enforcement, green tax incentives, education reform and support for local firms to compete globally. 'Tax rebates could be introduced for projects that go beyond the minimum landscaping requirements and successfully integrate nature-based solutions. 'Digital upskilling and analytical tools should be prioritised to ensure our professionals remain globally competitive.' She said landscape consultancies and nurseries should be better integrated into regional and global value chains, particularly in Asean and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, where demand for sustainable urban design is rising. 'Malaysia is well-placed to lead this platform, thanks to our tropical biodiversity, cultural richness and growing pool of design talent.' Nor Atiah also said the RM60 billion target reflects a larger shift in how landscape architecture is viewed in Malaysia. 'It's about giving value to beauty, dignity to green labour and strategic status to a profession that has long shaped our natural environments. 'With the right support, Malaysia's landscape industry can become a beacon in the region and a key player in the global green economy.'
The Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Landscape industry to power GDP and global reach
PETALING JAYA: The landscape industry should no longer be viewed as purely cosmetic or decorative, but as a strategic national investment in climate resilience, public health and cultural identity, says the Institute of Landscape Architects Malaysia. Its president, Assoc Prof Dr Nor Atiah Ismail said landscape architecture has become a key pillar of sustainable development, contributing significantly to economic growth and environmental protection. 'It is not a distant ambition. It is a clear call to action for Malaysia to mobilise our national strengths – our design expertise, biodiversity and professional innovation – for both local and regional impact,' she told theSun. On June 19, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming announced that under the newly updated National Landscape Policy, the government is targeting the landscape industry to contribute RM60 billion, or 3% to the country's gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030. He said the sector had already contributed RM39.4 billion, or 2%, to the GDP last year, an increase from RM35.68 billion in 2023. Nga added that the ministry would continue working to unlock the sector's full potential, aiming to transform it into a strategic economic force that not only enhances aesthetics and quality of life, but also creates jobs and income. Nor Atiah said the timing is right for Malaysia to position itself as a regional leader in sustainable landscape services, nature-based solutions and tropical floriculture exports. She cited industry estimates that placed the global landscaping services market at US$296 billion (RM1.39 trillion) in 2023, with projections rising to US$400 billion (RM1.88 trillion) by 2030. 'Growth in the Asia-Pacific region is especially strong, driven by rapid urbanisation, climate risks and the need for resilient green infrastructure.' Nor Atiah, who also serves on the executive committee of the International Federation of Landscape Architects Asia-Pacific, said Malaysian professionals are already playing a key role in high-value areas such as healthcare design, ESG-compliant (environment, social, governance) infrastructure, tourism planning and heritage revitalisation. 'They are not decorative works. They are part of a new green economy, where well-designed environments improve public health, attract investment and strengthen resilience to climate shocks. 'While the National Landscape Policy offers a solid foundation, it must now be fully operationalised across federal and state levels and aligned with national development frameworks such as the National Energy Transition roadmap and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.' Nor Atiah proposed several strategic actions, including improved policy enforcement, green tax incentives, education reform and support for local firms to compete globally. 'Tax rebates could be introduced for projects that go beyond the minimum landscaping requirements and successfully integrate nature-based solutions. 'Digital upskilling and analytical tools should be prioritised to ensure our professionals remain globally competitive.' She said landscape consultancies and nurseries should be better integrated into regional and global value chains, particularly in Asean and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, where demand for sustainable urban design is rising. 'Malaysia is well-placed to lead this platform, thanks to our tropical biodiversity, cultural richness and growing pool of design talent.' Nor Atiah also said the RM60 billion target reflects a larger shift in how landscape architecture is viewed in Malaysia. 'It's about giving value to beauty, dignity to green labour and strategic status to a profession that has long shaped our natural environments. 'With the right support, Malaysia's landscape industry can become a beacon in the region and a key player in the global green economy.'
The Sun
7 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
‘Solidarity with Iran may shift diplomatic posture'
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia's show of solidarity with Iran, following reported US airstrikes on Iranian territory under US President Donald Trump's directive, could significantly recalibrate the country's diplomatic posture amid escalating global tensions, according to international relations experts. International Islamic University Malaysia international law expert Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Yazid Zul Kepli said the move places Malaysia in a complex but familiar diplomatic space. 'Malaysia's expression of solidarity with Iran could yield mixed outcomes for its international image and role. This solidarity stems from humanitarian principles and respect for national sovereignty, not an endorsement of conflict or aggression,' he told theSun. While reaffirming Malaysia's non-alignment policy, Mohd Yazid added that such a stance might draw cautious responses from some Asean member states. 'The region generally seeks to avoid involvement in major power rivalries in order to preserve unity and stability,' he said. He added that Malaysia's position could prompt subtle shifts in engagement with Western powers, particularly in trade, security and technology cooperation with the US and the European Union. Conversely, he said the move may strengthen Malaysia's standing within the Muslim world. 'This principled stand enhances Malaysia's credibility as an advocate of humanitarian values and sovereignty, potentially deepening ties with nations that share similar perspectives.' However, he warned that if the Iran-Israel conflict intensifies, Malaysia could face economic and security implications, including potential disruption to oil supply routes and heightened concerns over regional extremism. Nonetheless, he noted potential benefits. 'Malaysia could elevate its role in peace diplomacy and may even benefit from rising commodity prices such as palm oil and natural gas. This situation also calls for a reassessment of our military readiness and collective security mechanisms.' Echoing these sentiments, Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research senior fellow Dr Azmi Hassan said Malaysia has consistently upheld a neutral stance in superpower conflicts. 'Malaysia's expression of solidarity with Iran is appropriate. The US–Iran issue is fundamentally a bilateral matter. If the US imposes sanctions, we can still trade with Iran, just as we have with Russia,' he said. 'In layman's terms – your problem, not ours.' Azmi also dismissed widespread concerns about Iran's nuclear ambitions. 'Claims about Iran developing nuclear weapons are largely exaggerated – a smokescreen. Iran abandoned that agenda over a decade ago and is now focused on peaceful nuclear energy, particularly for electricity generation,' he said. He added that Malaysia's support for Iran is grounded in the belief that Iran is pursuing a legitimate and peaceful direction, warranting moral and diplomatic support. On the broader implications for Malaysia and Southeast Asia, Azmi pointed to rising oil prices and the volatility of global shipping routes. 'Oil prices have already shown an upward trend over the past week. With direct US involvement and Iran reportedly issuing warnings over nuclear facilities in the Middle East, tensions are clearly escalating,' he said. While Iran has not moved to block the Strait of Hormuz – a key global oil shipping route – Azmi warned that such an action, combined with increasing threats in the Red Sea, could push oil prices to US$100 per barrel (RM425). 'If that happens, it could severely impede global economic growth and exert significant pressure on global supply chains. This wouldn't only affect the US, the consequences would be felt worldwide,' he said. The situation escalated after US President Donald Trump announced yesterday that the US military had launched a 'very successful attack' on three Iranian nuclear sites, indicating American involvement in Israel's air campaign against Tehran and further fuelling the ongoing Iran–Israel conflict.
The Star
21-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Experts: Adopt diesel template
Scheme's success shows benefits of phased, well-planned rollout PETALING JAYA: With the impending rationalisation of the RON95 petrol subsidy, experts from the economic and industry sectors have called on the government to draw lessons from diesel rationalisation to ensure inclusive and widespread acceptance. They stressed the need for clear criteria and a robust verification system to avoid public confusion. With this rationalisation impacting a broader section of society, continuous feedback and transparent processes are vital to ensure the subsidies reach those most in need. Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology's Centre for Business and Policy Research chairman Assoc Prof Dr Foo Lee Peng said the phased introduction of the Subsidised Diesel Control System (SKDS) 2.0 helped reduce leakages and refine delivery mechanisms. 'The pilot rollout in February, followed by expansion in March, gave the government time to adjust its approach and manage disruptions,' she said. However, she noted that reforming RON95 subsidies will require stronger public engagement, clearer messaging and inclusive delivery. 'Digital platforms like the Central Database Hub (Padu) can support targeting, but must be complemented by offline support to avoid excluding rural and low-income communities,' she said. Prof Foo urged the government to reframe subsidy rationalisation not as cost-cutting, but as part of a broader national strategy to strengthen governance, reduce the fiscal deficit and pave the way for reforms such as a carbon tax. She proposed a hybrid model that combines income-based eligibility, vehicle profiling and digital systems. She said digital delivery must be integrated with existing databases from the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), Road Transport Department (JPJ) and Statistics Department, while offline channels should remain available to ensure no one is left behind. Sunway University economics professor Dr Yeah Kim Leng said the diesel rollout offered a strong example of how good governance and planning can support targeted assistance. 'Producers, suppliers and retailers must fully understand the mechanism and be equipped to deliver it effectively,' he said. He said a combination of needs- and income-based criteria could help strike a fair balance between reducing government spending and easing the cost-of-living burden on vulnerable groups. He added that the choice of delivery mechanism – whether through petrol cards, MyKad-based systems or direct cash transfers – must be evaluated for ease of implementation, cost-effectiveness, administrative efficiency and its ability to minimise abuse and leakages. Economist Dr Geoffrey Williams described the diesel rationalisation as 'completely successful'. 'It reset the system by requiring re-registration, which alone was enough to eliminate misuse by ineligible individuals,' he said. He said there was 'almost no pushback' and strong stakeholder buy-in, while savings were nearly double what was anticipated. 'This equates to 2.2% of operational expenditure or 8.7% of development spending – a major contribution,' he said. For RON95, he recommended a tiered pricing system similar to electricity tariffs. 'Consumers receive full subsidy for small volumes. As usage increases, the subsidy tapers off. Beyond a set threshold, they pay full market price,' he said. This approach, he added, is simpler, fairer and mostly spares low-income groups, while encouraging more efficient fuel use – which also benefits the environment. Federation of Malaysian Freight Forwarders president Datuk Tony Chia called for a review of the outdated traditional income categories like B40, M40 and T20 to reflect the current cost of living. Reflecting on the Budi Madani scheme for diesel, Chia said logistics players had to ensure accurate vehicle registration, which, while administratively burdensome, improved transparency and fleet management. 'Similar controls for RON95 could affect the private transport and ride-hailing sectors. Early engagement with stakeholders is crucial to ensure smooth transitions,' he said. Chia recommended using income tax data to determine subsidy eligibility, urging readiness to identify relevant individual data. He cautioned against state-level implementation due to worker mobility, which could complicate matters. To encourage responsible usage, Chia suggested capping the subsidy at RM1,000 for those commuting long distances, with market prices applying beyond this limit. Universiti Malaysia Sarawak Faculty of Education, Language and Communication senior lecturer Chuah Kee Man suggested leveraging lessons from the Budi Madani scheme to enhance the RON95 subsidy system. 'By linking RON95 subsidies directly with MySejahtera or e-wallets, we could reduce fraud and expedite payments,' he said. This integration, he said, could facilitate rapid verification and instant notifications, benefiting both the government and users by tracking fuel usage patterns effectively. With the broader use of RON95 compared to diesel, Chuah said it raised significant data accuracy concerns. 'Some people might fall through the cracks or misuse the system,' he said, recommending cross-referencing data with LHDN or JPJ databases. He also cautioned that using MyKad at petrol stations might create bottlenecks, disadvantaging households with shared resources. Advocating for a hybrid approach, Chuah also proposed automatic eligibility for known low-income households alongside an appeal system for others, such as gig workers or those recently retrenched. 'Digital tools must be backed with human checks to ensure no one deserving is left out,' he said, underscoring the need for manual reviews and compassionate discretion for cases that algorithms might overlook.
