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Malaysian Reserve
2 days ago
- Climate
- Malaysian Reserve
No Malaysians affected by Typhoon Wipha in the Philippines, Vietnam
PUTRAJAYA — No Malaysians have been reported affected by Typhoon Wipha in the Philippines and Vietnam, the Foreign Ministry confirmed on Tuesday. In a statement, the ministry has urged Malaysians in both countries to remain vigilant, comply with all instructions issued by local authorities, and avoid high-risk areas. 'The ministry will continue to monitor developments closely and provide updates as necessary,' read the statement. Typhoon Wipha, which has now weakened into a severe tropical storm, has caused torrential rain and flooding, resulting in five deaths and the displacement of thousands in the Philippines. Since July 20, heavy rain associated with the southwest monsoon has severely affected Luzon, Visayas and parts of Mindanao, including Metro Manila. In Vietnam, the typhoon is expected to bring up to 500mm of rainfall to the northern region, with local authorities warning of flash floods and landslides in low-lying and mountainous areas, it added. The Foreign Ministry also encouraged Malaysians who have not registered with the nearest Malaysian Embassy to do so in order to facilitate timely updates and consular assistance. For consular assistance, the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila can be contacted at +63 2 8662 8200 / 8662 8201 / 8662 8202 or via email at mwmanila@ / infomanila@ In Vietnam, the Malaysian Embassy in Hanoi can be reached at +84 24 3734 3849 / 3734 3820 / 3734 3832 or via email at mwhanoi@ — BERNAMA
Barnama
2 days ago
- Climate
- Barnama
No Malaysians Affected by Typhoon Wipha in the Philippines, Vietnam
PUTRAJAYA, July 22 (Bernama) -- No Malaysians have been reported affected by Typhoon Wipha in the Philippines and Vietnam, the Foreign Ministry confirmed on Tuesday. In a statement, the ministry has urged Malaysians in both countries to remain vigilant, comply with all instructions issued by local authorities, and avoid high-risk areas. 'The ministry will continue to monitor developments closely and provide updates as necessary,' read the statement. bootstrap slideshow Typhoon Wipha, which has now weakened into a severe tropical storm, has caused torrential rain and flooding, resulting in five deaths and the displacement of thousands in the Philippines. Since July 20, heavy rain associated with the southwest monsoon has severely affected Luzon, Visayas and parts of Mindanao, including Metro Manila. In Vietnam, the typhoon is expected to bring up to 500mm of rainfall to the northern region, with local authorities warning of flash floods and landslides in low-lying and mountainous areas, it added. The Foreign Ministry also encouraged Malaysians who have not registered with the nearest Malaysian Embassy to do so in order to facilitate timely updates and consular assistance. For consular assistance, the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila can be contacted at +63 2 8662 8200 / 8662 8201 / 8662 8202 or via email at mwmanila@ / infomanila@ In Vietnam, the Malaysian Embassy in Hanoi can be reached at +84 24 3734 3849 / 3734 3820 / 3734 3832 or via email at mwhanoi@
Borneo Post
04-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
RM450 million secured as 26 MoUs signed between Malaysia, Indonesia firms
Malaysian and Indonesian delegates at DEX CONNEX Indonesia. JAKARTA (July 4): A total of 26 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed between Malaysian and Indonesian companies under the DEX CONNEX Indonesia programme, unlocking over RM450 million in digital export opportunities for 83 Malaysian tech firms. The initiative led by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) is part of ongoing efforts to expand regional cooperation and boost Malaysia's digital economy across Asean. The MoUs cover sectors such as cybersecurity, AI, cloud services, food and beverage, digital platforms and talent development. The goal, according to MDEC in a statement on Thursday, is to build a strong and collaborative digital ecosystem across Asean, with Malaysia championing innovation as Asean Chair this year. MDEC CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil said Indonesia plays a vital role in Malaysia's digital ambitions. He said Malaysia is focusing on cross-border collaboration to build a resilient digital bridge between two thriving tech ecosystems. 'With our strong tech ecosystem and the spirit of ASEAN unity, both nations continue to nurture a future where digital growth is inclusive, sustainable, and benefits all layers of society, ensuring long-term success,' he added. DEX CONNEX Indonesia is backed by the Embassy of Malaysia in Jakarta, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) Jakarta, and Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (KOMDIGI), along with various public and private sector partners from both countries. Anuar was joined at the MoU exchange ceremony by Malaysia's Ambassador to Indonesia Datuk Syed Md Hasrin Tengku Hussin. DEX CONNEX is a flagship platform under MDEC's GAIN (Gateway, Amplify, Invest and Nurture) programme which links Malaysian companies to global markets and tech ecosystems to drive bilateral digital trade. From 2017 to 2023, the GAIN programme recorded RM31.9 billion in revenue and over RM11.2 billion in exports. These results are driven by Malaysian companies making full use of MDEC's export facilitation and market access support.
The Sun
03-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
M'sian firms bag RM450m potential digital exports to Indonesia
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) continues to drive the nation's digital economy across Asean, strengthening regional cooperation and market access for Malaysian companies. The agency's latest initiative under the DEX CONNEX Indonesia programme brought 83 Malaysian tech companies into the Indonesian market, which generated more than RM450 million in digital export opportunities. DEX CONNEX Indonesia is a key regional initiative that facilitated the exchange of 26 MoUs between Malaysian and Indonesian firms. These agreements span sectors such as cybersecurity, AI, cloud services, F&B, digital platforms, and talent development, aimed at creating a robust and collaborative digital ecosystem across Asean, primarily as Malaysia serves as Asean Chair that champions innovation as a driver of regional growth and resilience. MDEC CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil called Indonesia a key partner in Malaysia's digital goals. 'Through DEX CONNEX, Malaysia is focusing on cross-border collaborations to continue building a resilient digital bridge between two thriving ecosystems. 'With a strong tech ecosystem and Asean unity, both nations are shaping an inclusive, sustainable digital future for all,' he added. This initiative is supported by the Embassy of Malaysia in Jakarta, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry Malaysia, Matrade Jakarta, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs of Indonesia, and partners from both nations.
The Star
01-07-2025
- The Star
Time to explore the undiscovered wonders of Timor-Leste
When travelling to a foreign land, perhaps one of the more exciting things that could occur is unexpectedly meeting someone hailing from your homeland. For Malaysians visiting Timor-Leste, the possibility of this is quite likely. The Malaysian diaspora here may not be the largest, but it is sizeable enough that you may just bump into a fellow countryman. This is especially so in the capital city, Dili, set in the municipality of the same name. The Embassy of Malaysia in Timor-Leste records 150 Malaysians currently registered with it, as well as a total of 260 Malaysian-owned businesses. Some can even be seen in the short film Tabah Di Timor: Untold Stories Of Malaysians In Timor-Leste . This 2024 production by the embassy highlights the lives of these Malaysians, some of whom have called the small nation home long before it was christened 'Timor-Leste' – it only adopted this name after gaining independence in 2002. Among the featured Malaysians are Yong Pow Sang, 63, and Masrah Hulka, 44. The married couple relocated to the youngest country in South-East Asia 22 years ago. 'We were seeking new opportunities,' said Masrah. Personally, the connection I have with the Sabah-born chef extends beyond just sharing the same home country and state – we also hail from the same district! Talk about a small world. We met one fateful day when our little Malaysian convoy stepped into her restaurant for teatime. Our conversation revealed that she rarely returned to Papar, our shared hometown, as she and Yong – who hails from Kuala Lumpur – had been focused on building their businesses in Timor-Leste. Her restaurant, which she bestowed with her own moniker ('Gia', another name she goes by), serves familiar dishes to Malaysians missing the taste of home. From roti jala and kuih kasturi to fried rice and noodles, everything pairs well with a comforting cup of frothy tea. Bridging two nations Understandably, the lack of direct connectivity between Malaysia and Timor-Leste makes going home regularly a hassle for not just Masrah and Yong, but also other Malaysians residing in the island nation. However, the recent launch of Batik Air's flight from KL to Dili might just make balik kampung much easier for everyone. Being the first Malaysian carrier to serve the route, Batik Air currently operates two flights weekly from KL International Airport Terminal 1. 'It was Datuk Amarjit Sarjit Singh's (ambassador of Malaysia to Timor-Leste) words and actions that made this scheduled service a reality,' said Batik Air CEO Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy. This refers to the fact that Batik Air operated several charter flights between KL and Dili during the Covid-19 pandemic, which were eventually paused. However, Amarjit Sarjit was unwavering in his efforts to resume connectivity between the two nations. 'Looking to the future, Batik Air is excited to play a long-term role in supporting Timor-Leste's connectivity and growth. We are not simply adding a new destination to our network; we are building meaningful bridges that we hope will contribute to shared progress in the years to come,' Chandran added. Courtesy of Batik Air Malaysia and the Ministry of Tourism and Environment of Timor-Leste, several Malaysian media had the chance to experience the inaugural flight on June 6 and spend the weekend discovering the little nation's vast wonders. Taking off around 2.15am from KL, our flight landed 10 minutes ahead of the scheduled 7.30am arrival time. The flight typically takes approximately four hours and 15 minutes. Dili is one hour ahead of KL. Bleary-eyed as we pulled onto the apron at the Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport, we were jolted to our senses when strong blasts of water suddenly pelted the aircraft. We looked out to see fire trucks, one on each side of our Boeing 737, generously 'hosing down' the plane for its traditional water salute. Day on the island Why rush when you can revel in the moment? While Dili exudes the same laid-back nature, nowhere is this relaxed lifestyle more apparent than on Atauro. The island is accessible via ferry services. The big ferry costs US$4 (RM17) but the journey will take about three hours longer. The smaller ferry, though costing more at US$10-12 (RM43-51) per person, is relatively faster. Yes, the US dollar is the official currency in Timor-Leste. Ferries dock at Beloi Pier, the only port on Atauro Island. Based on our experience with the smaller vessel, it took roughly 90 minutes from the Dili Port to the Beloi Pier. (Our tip: Come prepared with motion sickness remedies. Choppy waters led to seasickness for quite a number of passengers.) Snorkelling and scuba diving are some of the activities typically done on Atauro, but the high-water conditions that sunny Saturday did not permit these. Still, we had fun exploring the island's villages in pickup trucks, trying not to suffocate as clouds of dust bloomed whenever another vehicle passed by our 'open-air transportation' on the dry dirt road. Congregating at Barry's Place, we had a buffet lunch that included ketupat (a staple in Timor-Leste) and ikan bakar. Seafood is prevalent in the local diet as it is easily obtainable. We did not stay overnight on the island, but if you wish to, you can book a stay at one of the thatched-roof chalets at Barry's Place. Our ferry was scheduled to leave at 2pm. In the island's true unhurried fashion, it only departed an hour and a half later. No matter – it gave us plenty of time to continue lounging on the beach. There was also the fish market to wander around. Amid the stalls of dried fish and freshly caught ones, we spotted a few stands selling clothes and groceries. One thing we didn't spot was stalls selling roosters. But they must have existed somewhere, because some of the locals boarded the ferry later carrying live roosters in boxes. Lovely Dili Even if you don't get to go to Atauro, Dili itself is brimming with littoral beauty. We were entranced by its cerulean waters from the moment we touched down. We also later learned that the city's seaside airport, though small, is historically interesting in that it predates the young country by well over six decades. It was built during the Portuguese colonisation prior to World War II. A great viewing point for fully appreciating the beauty of Dili's coastline is at one of its main attractions, Cristo Rei. Reaching the 27m-tall statue on Fatucama Hill requires hiking up at least 500 steps. Some say 600, while others feel like it is an infinite number of steps. We would've counted, but we were too busy taking in the views (and catching our breath). More than just a tourist attraction, Cristo Rei is religiously significant for the locals. Over 90% of the country's population is Catholic. As the 14 Stations of the Cross are set along the path to the statue, Good Friday processions are held here annually. From up the hill, we marvelled at the view of coastal roads winding alongside the turquoise waters and white sand of Areia Branca Beach – aptly named, as its appellation means 'white sand' in Portuguese. Portuguese is one of the official languages here. The other is Tetum or Tetun, with Tetun-Dili being the most common variation spoken by the locals. Our lovely guides – Luis, Erni and Firda – from Manny Timor Tours taught us Tetun words like maun and mana , the equivalent of respectfully addressing someone as 'brother' or 'sister'. Diak ka lae? A local might enquire. That's basically 'how are you?'; reply with diak (good) or la diak (not good). Communicating is no issue for Malaysian tourists, since the locals also speak English as well as Bahasa Indonesia, which is similar enough to our national language. The latter is more widely spoken, especially by those who received their education during Indonesia's occupation (1975-1999). Speaking of the occupation, gain a better understanding of Timor-Leste's history by visiting the Timorese Resistance Archive & Museum. Our stop here was short, but enough to give us insights into the Timorese people's struggle in gaining independence. We also stopped by Tais Market. As the name indicates, the marketplace focuses on tais – the country's traditional handwoven textile. It comes in many forms here, from shawls to bags and book covers. You will spot roosters tied by their feet at some of the stalls – those aren't for sale. Tais Market sells all kinds of souvenirs (but not roosters). Souvenirs in food form are harder to come by. If you've ever been to Japan and bombarded by its many daintily packaged snacks meant for gifting, expect the exact opposite in Timor-Leste. You can still purchase locally grown coffee and loose-leaf tea, but they won't be packed in single sachets that can be easily distributed back home. Beyond the city Where to get your hands on local tea and coffee? For the former, we bought some at Dili's sole shopping complex, Timor Plaza. For the latter, we ventured to the neighbouring municipality of Ermera. Up to the highlands we went. We made a quick stop at one of the villages along the way, to visit an uma lulik (sacred house). 'You must return to your own village's uma lulik for traditional ceremonies,' our guide Luis said. He stressed the importance of gathering to pray to their ancestors at these sacred buildings, which stand on stilts and are made of local timber and topped with thatched roofs. Uma lulik is a sacred house for ancestral prayers. Our journey resumed. The sun was high by the time we reached Cooperativa Cafe in Ermera. Here, we learned about coffee production and took a tour of the plantation – where other plants like cocoa and vanilla also grew. After a refreshment of coffee with a side of banana fritters, purple sweet potatoes and tapioca (the latter two paired with chopped green chillies for that extra kick), we headed to Liquica for a seaside lunch at the Alma Do Mar Resort. Fully recharged, we continued to our next destination, Aipelo Prison (alternatively spelled Ai Pelo). More precisely, it is the stone prison's ruins that still stand today. Built in the 18th century, it was decommissioned in 1939. Our attempt to glean information from the boards displayed throughout the site was not a success. The English parts on the boards had heavily faded, even more so than their Portuguese and Tetun parts. Fortunately, we had our three guides to enlighten us. Political prisoners and criminals were imprisoned in the lower half of the main building. The top half was used as an administration office. Aipelo Prison is a historical colonial era site in Liquica. This illustrates that hiring a tour guide is advisable when visiting Timor-Leste. Besides, in addition to their local knowledge, they provide something you'll inevitably need: Transportation. Microlets or mini buses are easy to come by in Dili, but they have limited reach. Renting your own car or scooter is possible for adventures beyond the city, but the roads' unfavourable conditions – some potholes are even overgrown with grass – might make you reconsider this option. Unless, of course, you're into that kind of adventure. Admittedly, we've barely scratched the surface when it comes to tourism in Timor-Leste. Our tour guides recommend at least one week to discover their country's various charms. Other places of interest include Jaco island, popular for whale-watching; Nino Konis Santana National Park, the country's first and only national park; and Mount Ramelau, the highest peak in the country. Aileu and Maubisse are also popular, especially among nature lovers and thrill seekers. Their mountainous landscapes serve as great hiking and camping spots as well as mountain biking trails. Look up videos of mountain biking in Timor-Leste and you will see why. Perhaps, that's just the kind of adventure that will entice you to visit Timor-Leste and, as the country puts it, 'explore the undiscovered'. Travel notes Getting there: Batik Air ( operates direct flights twice weekly (Monday and Friday) to Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport from KLIA Terminal 1. Where to stay: Palm Springs Hotel Dili, Hotel Timor, Novo Turismo Resort And Spa, JL World Hotel Dili, The Plaza Hotel. Currency: US dollar is the official currency. Carry cash as debit/credit cards are generally not accepted in stores. More information: Find out more about Timor-Leste at
