Latest news with #Fong
The Star
3 hours ago
- Politics
- The Star
45-year-old KL hall now deemed illegal
THE management of a 45-year-old community hall in Jalan 1, Kampung Baru Salak Selatan, Kuala Lumpur, is now caught in limbo after the Federal Territories Land and Mines Office (PTGWP) deemed the structure illegal and issued a notice for its demolition. The hall, managed by Persatuan Kebajikan Kampung Baru Salak Selatan, an umbrella body of over seven non-governmental organisations (NGOs), has been used for decades to host community activities, including running a kindergarten. It is learnt that PTGWP officers issued the notice two weeks ago, instructing the management to vacate the site at Lot 7985 by July 15. The officers returned today and pasted red notices all over the premises. According to the notice, the occupiers have illegally taken up government land and must vacate and demolish all structures immediately, or face legal action under Section 425(1) of the National Land Code 1965. Enforcement action may be taken at any time. Failure to comply could result in a fine of up to RM500,000 or a jail term not exceeding five years, or both. When contacted, association chairman Banie Chin questioned the sudden move by the authorities. 'Why now? 'This is an old community hall. When it caught fire in 1981, we rebuilt it with help from the then-mayor, the late Tan Sri Elyas Omar. 'We raised funds, and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) also contributed funds for the hall. "No one ever said the hall was illegal. If it is, come talk to us, we are willing to discuss,' he said. Chin, who is also Salak South Village MCA branch deputy chairman, said the NGOs had planned a series of events to be held at the hall and will appeal for more time to secure an alternative venue. 'We can't just cancel the kindergarten. Events are lined up until the Chinese New Year next year. "This whole thing has been handled in poor taste,' he said, adding that it had appointed a lawyer to look into the matter. In a Facebook post, Bukit Bintang MP Fong Kui Lun confirmed that PTGWP, along with DBKL, would be carrying out enforcement action on the site. 'Investigations revealed that the hall has been operated without any valid approval from the authorities. "This constitutes trespass and cannot be allowed to continue. 'As an MP, I respect and support the enforcement action, as it is carried out in accordance with the law,' Fong said. He stressed that the issue was not racial or political, but about safeguarding public property and upholding the law. 'No one is entitled to occupy or build on government land without formal approval. "A reasonable grace period has already been given for the parties involved to move out,' he added. Fong also urged all parties to respect the legal process and not twist the issue. 'Community halls should be used legally, transparently and fairly for the benefit of all residents, and not monopolised or occupied by any individual or group,' he said.
Techday NZ
a day ago
- Business
- Techday NZ
New Zealand unifies cyber incident reporting under single platform
Reporting cyber security incidents in New Zealand has been streamlined following the completed integration of CERT NZ with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The integration aims to improve support for individuals, small to medium businesses, operators of critical infrastructure, and government agencies in addressing and understanding cyber threats. Changes for reporting Lisa Fong, Deputy Director-General Cyber Security at the Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB) and responsible for the NCSC, said that these developments come in direct response to increased cyber security threats affecting New Zealanders across all sectors. "Individuals are losing money to online threats. Small to medium businesses are experiencing sophisticated compromises of networks and devices. And New Zealand's operators of critical infrastructure and government agencies are having to protect against a range of advanced actors and techniques." Fong noted that the integration was undertaken to enhance the experience for all who need to report cyber security incidents and to simplify finding appropriate assistance. One-stop reporting platform "We have launched a refreshed and rebranded website with a streamlined incident reporting function. Cyber security incidents can now be reported in one place, whether the victim is an individual or a critical infrastructure operator," Fong said. The consolidated reporting system is designed not only to ease the process for victims but also to improve national insight into digital threats. "This single platform for reporting incidents also means we will have a better understanding of the cyber threat landscape across the New Zealand economy and can prioritise our advice and support about these threats and how to protect against them," Fong said. Website and branding updates The previous separate NCSC and CERT NZ websites have been merged into a single authoritative site. This provides IT specialists, large organisations, government bodies, and operators of critical infrastructure with a unified resource for advice and insights on cyber security matters. With these changes, the CERT NZ brand and website will be retired. The NCSC website now reflects its expanded national CERT function and wider remit to include the whole economy. Fong explained, "Although you will stop seeing the CERT NZ brand, the national functions of a Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) are integrated into the NCSC structure." Contact information changes As part of the transition, the 0800 CERT NZ contact number has been replaced. Those needing to report a cyber incident can now contact the NCSC directly at 0800 114 115. The Own Your Online platform will continue to be available through the NCSC, providing individuals and small-to-medium businesses with cyber security advice and guidance. Milestone in New Zealand cyber security "This is a significant milestone toward a New Zealand where good cyber security happens everywhere, all the time, by everyone," says Fong. According to the agencies, this change brings together the strengths of both CERT NZ and the NCSC, drawing on CERT NZ's background in supporting individuals and small businesses, and the NCSC's role in protecting nationally significant organisations. The aim is to ensure a more cohesive national approach to cyber security, better visibility on incident trends, and more timely and relevant guidance on cyber threats for all sectors of New Zealand society.
The Star
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Experts hail timely step towards boosting cybersecurity
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia's decision to ratify the United Nations Convention Against Cybercrimes marks a pivotal step forward in the nation's efforts to bolster cybersecurity and enhance international cooperation, experts say. Taylor's University Malaysia's Assoc Prof Datuk Dr Husin Jazri said Malaysia's ability to combat cybercrime would be enhanced as the convention encourages cross-border cooperation. 'By signing this convention, Malaysia will be more effective in tracing and countering cybercrimes across borders, especially cybercrime-related matters as stipulated in the articles proposed by this legal convention. 'Most digital crimes tend to operate cross-border, and Malaysia becoming one of the signatories is a step in the right direction in our effort to combat cybercrimes such as online scams and more,' he said. Prof Husin added that the majority of the convention's articles are already in line with Malaysia's existing laws or can be easily harmonised. He said this alignment ensures that Malaysia's legal framework meets international standards, further strengthening its cybersecurity posture. 'However, certain aspects, such as Extradition Requests and Mutual Legal and Technical Assistance, may require additional clarity and resources for them to be implemented effectively,' the cybersecurity expert said. Adopted by the UN General Assembly last December, the convention would be the first comprehensive global treaty in dealing with cybercrime. The convention also provides member states with a range of measures to be undertaken in preventing and combating cybercrime. Among the key areas covered are requiring countries to criminalise hacking and illegal access to computer systems, online scams and financial fraud, child sexual exploitation and abuse materials, and identity theft. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail told the Dewan Rakyat last week that Malaysia will ratify the convention this October in Vietnam. Cybersecurity expert Fong Choong Fook said the government's decision is a positive and timely step. 'Cybercrime is inherently transnational and often operates across borders, exploiting jurisdictional gaps. 'By aligning with a global framework, Malaysia gains the legal tools and international cooperation mechanisms necessary to pursue cybercriminals more effectively,' he said. He added that ratifying the international legal framework would also enhance cross-border evidence sharing and streamline extradition processes. However, Fong highlighted several challenges in implementing the convention in Malaysia, especially in terms of capacity and expertise. 'Investigating cybercrime requires deep technical skills – such as digital forensics, threat intelligence and malware analysis – which remain in short supply. To overcome these, Malaysia must invest not only in legal reforms, but also in technical training, cyber threat intelligence platforms and public-private partnerships, said Fong.
The Sun
2 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
PGF Capital kicks off new financial year with 11.9% y-o-y growth in net profit to RM7.5m for 1QFY26
PENANG: Main Market-listed insulation producer in Southeast Asia, PGF Capital Berhad, began the new financial year with a revenue of RM40.6 million in its first quarter (1QFY26) results for the financial year ended Feb 28, 2026 (FY26) compared to RM40.5 million in 1QFY25. While revenue improved moderately, profit after tax rose 11.9% year-on-year (YoY) to RM7.5 million from RM6.7 million over the same quarter last year. The improvement in bottom line performance was largely attributable to thesustained demand of the Insulation and Related Products (Insulation segment) from the Oceania market and the Group's emphasis on cost efficiency, which contributed to lower operating expenses. This was partially offset by a mark-to-market unrealised loss of RM0.6 million on a cross-currency swap facilities (MTM Unrealised Loss) in the current quarter. In 1QFY26, the Group in a statement today said revenue composition remained consistent, with the Insulation segment accounting for 99.7% of the total revenue. The remaining contribution came from property development, investment holding, and other segments. 'We are pleased to begin the new financial year with a solid set of performance, led by thecontinued strength of our Insulation segment,' said executive director and Group CEO Fong Wern Sheng. 'We continue to observe healthy demand in the Oceania market, particularly in Australia, supported by clear policy direction, including updated building codes and the national target of delivering 1.2 million new homes by 2029. The recently announced Victorian Energy Upgrades programme, which offers 50% costreductions for ceiling insulation, adds further optimism as we look toward 2026.' While the Group achieved YoY growth, he added, performance for the quarter was partially impacted by the recent gas pipeline incident in Putra Heights, Selangor, which temporarily disrupted their production activities and export sales. Separately, he said, their new mineral wool sandwich panels have been certified by Standards and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia and are now pending approval from the Fire Department of Malaysia. 'The Group's capacity expansion is progressing as planned, with the construction of its new 40,000 metric-tonne plant (New Plant) in Kulim East Industrial Park, Kedah, proceeding on schedule. Commercial operations are targeted to begin in the first half of 2026. In support of this investment, the project has received approval for the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) Tax Incentive Package, granting a five plus five years corporate tax holiday. This incentive is expected to enhance the Group's financial performance in the coming years,' said Fong. Meanwhile, on the topic of reciprocal tariffs by the United States (US), Fong expressed that PGF Capital does not anticipate significant impact on its revenue or purchases, given that export activities are predominantly concentrated in the Oceania region, which contributes over 70.0% of total export volume, with another 20.0% coming from domestic sales. The Group has no direct export activities to the US. As for the property development segment, PGF Capital's efforts to activate its landbank in Tanjong Malim, Perak, have taken a step forward with the receipt of conditional Planning Approval (Kebenaran Merancang) for the Phase 1 development. The project, undertaken via a land sale arrangement with Malvest Properties Sdn Bhd (Malvest) will consist of 1,808 residential and commercial units. It forms part of the broader initiative to support the government's vision of transforming Proton City into an Automotive High-Tech Valley. The Group is currently addressing the infrastructure conditions imposed to facilitate the commencement of the project. PGF Capital maintained a solid financial position in the first quarter of 2026, with a net gearing ratio of 0.15 times and net assets per share of RM1.39. The Group also generated a healthy net operating cash flow of RM3.4 million during the quarter, reflecting continued strength in its core operations.
The Sun
2 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
PGF Capital kicks off new financial year with 11.9% y-o-y growth net profit to RM7.5m for 1QFY26
PENANG: Main Market-listed insulation producer in Southeast Asia, PGF Capital Berhad, began the new financial year with a revenue of RM40.6 million in its first quarter (1QFY26) results for the financial year ended Feb 28, 2026 (FY26) compared to RM40.5 million in 1QFY25. While revenue improved moderately, profit after tax rose 11.9% year-on-year (YoY) to RM7.5 million from RM6.7 million over the same quarter last year. The improvement in bottom line performance was largely attributable to thesustained demand of the Insulation and Related Products (Insulation segment) from the Oceania market and the Group's emphasis on cost efficiency, which contributed to lower operating expenses. This was partially offset by a mark-to-market unrealised loss of RM0.6 million on a cross-currency swap facilities (MTM Unrealised Loss) in the current quarter. In 1QFY26, the Group in a statement today said revenue composition remained consistent, with the Insulation segment accounting for 99.7% of the total revenue. The remaining contribution came from property development, investment holding, and other segments. 'We are pleased to begin the new financial year with a solid set of performance, led by thecontinued strength of our Insulation segment,' said executive director and Group CEO Fong Wern Sheng. 'We continue to observe healthy demand in the Oceania market, particularly in Australia, supported by clear policy direction, including updated building codes and the national target of delivering 1.2 million new homes by 2029. The recently announced Victorian Energy Upgrades programme, which offers 50% costreductions for ceiling insulation, adds further optimism as we look toward 2026.' While the Group achieved YoY growth, he added, performance for the quarter was partially impacted by the recent gas pipeline incident in Putra Heights, Selangor, which temporarily disrupted their production activities and export sales. Separately, he said, their new mineral wool sandwich panels have been certified by Standards and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia and are now pending approval from the Fire Department of Malaysia. 'The Group's capacity expansion is progressing as planned, with the construction of its new 40,000 metric-tonne plant (New Plant) in Kulim East Industrial Park, Kedah, proceeding on schedule. Commercial operations are targeted to begin in the first half of 2026. In support of this investment, the project has received approval for the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) Tax Incentive Package, granting a five plus five years corporate tax holiday. This incentive is expected to enhance the Group's financial performance in the coming years,' said Fong. Meanwhile, on the topic of reciprocal tariffs by the United States (US), Fong expressed that PGF Capital does not anticipate significant impact on its revenue or purchases, given that export activities are predominantly concentrated in the Oceania region, which contributes over 70.0% of total export volume, with another 20.0% coming from domestic sales. The Group has no direct export activities to the US. As for the property development segment, PGF Capital's efforts to activate its landbank in Tanjong Malim, Perak, have taken a step forward with the receipt of conditional Planning Approval (Kebenaran Merancang) for the Phase 1 development. The project, undertaken via a land sale arrangement with Malvest Properties Sdn Bhd (Malvest) will consist of 1,808 residential and commercial units. It forms part of the broader initiative to support the government's vision of transforming Proton City into an Automotive High-Tech Valley. The Group is currently addressing the infrastructure conditions imposed to facilitate the commencement of the project. PGF Capital maintained a solid financial position in the first quarter of 2026, with a net gearing ratio of 0.15 times and net assets per share of RM1.39. The Group also generated a healthy net operating cash flow of RM3.4 million during the quarter, reflecting continued strength in its core operations.
