Latest news with #MAG
New Straits Times
19 hours ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Malaysia Airlines taps 'Pocket Rocketman' Azizulhasni Awang in sports branding drive
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of Malaysia Airlines, has named national track cycling legend Datuk Azizulhasni Awang—better known as the 'Pocket Rocketman'—as the official ambassador for MHsports, its specialised platform for sports travel. The high-profile appointment signals MAG's commitment to deepening engagement with Malaysia's sporting ecosystem while reinforcing national pride through strategic brand partnerships. By aligning with one of the country's most celebrated athletes, the Group aims to elevate Malaysia Airlines as not just a national carrier but a strong advocate for local sports excellence. This move comes as MAG accelerates its MHsports initiative—an end-to-end travel solution tailored for athletes and sports organisations, offering exclusive airfare discounts, extra baggage allowance for equipment, and flexible booking options. The platform is a key part of MAG's strategy to serve niche markets and build stronger emotional ties with Malaysian consumers. Azizulhasni, the first Malaysian cyclist to win an Olympic medal and a role model to young athletes nationwide, embodies the values of determination, discipline, and resilience—traits MAG hopes will inspire the next generation. Through the partnership, Malaysia Airlines will support Azizulhasni's preparations and participation in international competitions. He will also play an active role in MHsports' brand campaigns and youth outreach efforts aimed at promoting sports as a force for unity and national pride. Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, group managing director of MAG, said Malaysia Airlines 'remains deeply committed to supporting national sports development. "We are proud to play a role in the journeys of Malaysian athletes, providing travel solutions tailored to their needs as they represent the nation on the world stage. Our goal is to continue building meaningful support systems for the sporting community while contributing to Malaysia's growing presence in the international sports arena."
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Milestones: Sarawak's bold ascent by air, sea and financial power
Abang Johari (fourth left) witnessing the signing of the SPA between the Sarawak government and MAG on Feb 12, 2025, in Kuching. — Photo by Roystein Emmor KUCHING (July 22): Under Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg's leadership as Premier, Sarawak has made exceptional strides to steadily ascend as a key player in the economic, transport, and financial landscape not just in Malaysia but also globally. Here, we take a look at a few of Sarawak's major achievements since the anniversary of the state's independence last year. AirBorneo The high-profile launch of AirBorneo on February 12, following the acquisition of MASwings from the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), has made Sarawak the first state in Malaysia to own an airline. AirBorneo is expected to launch full operations by next year, with services targeting domestic and regional routes across Southeast Asia, including Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Singapore, Jakarta, Hong Kong, and Japan. 'AirBorneo is poised to create a balance between connectivity, affordable fares and economic benefits. 'Operating as a full-service carrier (FSC), AirBorneo can significantly enhance the passengers' experiences through superior in-flight services. 'This will emphasise the regional prestige of Sarawak as a premium travel destination,' said Abang Johari said at the Sale and Purchase Agreement signing ceremony on Feb 12. According to media reports, some of the international destinations that AirBorneo is eyeing include Bangkok, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Seoul and Frankfurt as the airline aims to operate as a full-service carrier. The full acquisition of MASwings Sdn Bhd by AirBorneo Holdings Sdn Bhd is expected to be finalised by Dec 31 this year, with no changes to the current Rural Air Services (RAS) operations. During the transition period, AirBorneo is working closely with MAG to ensure a seamless handover and to obtain necessary regulatory approvals from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), the Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom), the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The airline has established its headquarters in Kuching and begun recruiting key personnel. A public logo and livery design competition was launched to engage Sarawakians in shaping the airline's identity, The airline's development is closely tied to Sarawak's broader infrastructure ambitions. A new Kuching International Airport and a deep-sea port in Tanjung Embang are in the pipeline, and aimed at transforming Sarawak into a regional aviation and marine hub. Sarawak is now the largest shareholder of Affin Bank. Becoming biggest shareholder in Affin Bank On September 27, 2024, Sarawak became the largest shareholder in Affin Bank Berhad, acquiring a 31.25 per cent stake through its wholly owned subsidiary, SG Assetfin Holdings Sdn Bhd. This landmark move marked a pivotal shift in the state's financial landscape, positioning Sarawak not just as a stakeholder but as a strategic force in Malaysia's banking sector. Prior to the acquisition, Sarawak held a modest 4.81 percent stake in Affin Bank. The purchase of shares from Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera (LTAT) and Boustead Holdings Berhad elevated the state's influence, enabling it to shape the bank's direction in alignment with Sarawak's Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030). The acquisition was not merely financial—it was deeply symbolic of Sarawak's growing autonomy and ambition. Abang Johari had emphasised that the decision was driven by the need to create a robust financial platform to support Sarawak's economic transformation. With Affin's extensive network and expertise, the state aims to unlock new opportunities, facilitate access to capital, and ignite entrepreneurial growth across sectors. Affin Bank's role in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is central to Sarawak's strategy. SMEs form the backbone of the state's economy, and Affin's suite of banking products, including trade finance and commercial lending, is expected to empower local businesses to scale and innovate. The acquisition also aligns with Sarawak's broader goal of diversifying its economy beyond natural resources. Strategic industries such as agro-based ventures, tourism, manufacturing, and green technology are poised to benefit from improved access to financing and tailored banking solutions. Affin Bank's expansion in Sarawak is already underway. As of early 2025, the bank operates eight branches across Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu, and Miri, with plans to open six more by July, bringing the total to 14. The Premier has also called for greater decentralization in banking operations, urging Affin to empower its Sarawak-based managers with loan approval authority. This move is intended to accelerate decision-making and ensure that local needs are addressed swiftly and effectively. On June 23, it was reported Affin Bank Berhad has been officially appointed to manage the Endowment Fund Sarawak (EFS) 2.0, a long-term savings initiative for newborns in the state. Affin Bank had also introduced the Kenyalang savings account for Sarawakians last in April. Account holders were given a special debit card bearing the hornbill graphic. Bintulu Port is a vital gateway for Sarawak's liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports and industrial cargo. Reclaiming Bintulu Port In a historic move to assert greater control over its maritime infrastructure, the Sarawak government initiated the acquisition of Bintulu Port from federal jurisdiction in early 2024. It marked a turning point in Sarawak's pursuit of economic autonomy and infrastructure governance under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). The port, long managed by the federal Bintulu Port Authority (BPA), is a vital gateway for Sarawak's liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports and industrial cargo. The acquisition of Bintulu Port was deemed as a necessary step to streamline port operations and align them with Sarawak's development goals. Momentum accelerated in February 2024 when a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the federal Ministry of Transport and Sarawak's Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD). The MoU outlined the framework for transferring regulatory control and assets, including the repeal of the Bintulu Port Authority Act 1981 and the establishment of a new state-level authority. In July 2024, Parliament passed the Bintulu Port Authority (Dissolution) Bill and the Declaration of an Area in the Bintulu District to be a Federal Port (Repeal) Bill. These legislative milestones officially reclassified Bintulu Port as a state port, enabling Sarawak to govern it under the Port Authorities Ordinance 1961. Premier Abang Johari highlighted the economic significance of the acquisition, noting that Bintulu Port would play a central role in boosting Sarawak's commodities trade and export capacity. The launch of the Borneo Supply Base, designed to serve the petroleum industry, is expected to increase shipping activity and support the state's energy ambitions. The acquisition also includes a compensation agreement, with Sarawak set to pay the federal government for the transfer of port assets. This financial arrangement underscores the seriousness of the state's commitment to managing its infrastructure independently and responsibly. Looking ahead, Bintulu Port is poised to benefit from infrastructure upgrades and expanded services. The port will support bunkering for green fuels and serve as a terminal for LNG exports, aligning with Sarawak's push for sustainability and regional competitiveness. The port's transformation is part of a broader vision that includes the development of the Kuching Deep Water Port at Tanjung Embang, which will complement Bintulu's operations and position Sarawak as a maritime hub in Southeast Asia. The Sarawak government has ramped up staffing and budget allocations to ensure the port's successful integration into state systems. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said in May this year the takeover of Bintulu Port from federal jurisdiction to Sarawak is currently in the final stages of negotiations and the transfer is expected to take place in 2025. He said, with the approval of the Sarawak Port Authority Ordinance in May 2024, the Sarawak government is now moving towards the operation of a single port authority, the Sarawak Port Authority, which will have regulatory jurisdiction over all port activities in Sarawak. The opening ceremony of SUKMA XXI in Kuching was a spectacular and memorable event. — Photo by Chimon Upon Sporting success, bigger aspirations Sarawakians also have much to celebrate in sports. The successful hosting of Malaysia Games (SUKMA XXI) in August 2024 showcased the state's sporting infrastructure and organizational capacity. This on-field triumph paved the way for Sarawak's upcoming role as host of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in 2027. Sarawak clinched the overall championship for the first time in 30 years. With 76 gold, 55 silver, and 70 bronze medals, the host state edged out Federal Territory by a single gold, in a nail-biting finish that kept fans on edge until the final event. The Games were a showcase of rising stars. Swimmer Kelly Teo, just 18, won six golds and three other medals, earning RM94,250 in incentives from the state government. Shot putter Jonah Chang Rigan smashed the national record with a throw of 17.66 metres, while javelin thrower Ng Jing Xuan rewrote national record with a 45.12-metre launch. Beyond medals, SUKMA XXI was a triumph of technology and inclusivity. A dedicated mobile app provided real-time updates, athlete profiles, and live broadcasts—20 sports were streamed online, a first for SUKMA. State Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah had said Sarawak is set to host the highest number of sporting events at the SEA Games 2027, with 18 sports currently agreed upon He had also said the official opening ceremony of the SEA Games will take place in Kuching. Abang Johari Tun Openg Affin Bank AirBorneo lead sarawak day
CTV News
5 days ago
- Politics
- CTV News
‘They're bombing us almost every single day': Windsor defence lawyer applauds restrictions to virtual courtroom
Ontario is no longer granting full public access to Zoom links for court proceedings. Criminal defence lawyer Patricia Brown said she has witnessed several inappropriate and offensive uses of the virtual platform in recent weeks. 'I just cannot believe this level of disruption that's happening,' Brown said. 'Before the last couple months, I've not experienced it.' Brown has had hearings derailed by participants who unmute themselves and make offensive, racist, pornographic or homophobic comments. 'They're essentially kind of taking over the court. It's extremely distracting. It causes a lot of disruption,' Brown said. Although she hasn't witnessed it personally, Brown said other courtrooms have also been derailed by a participant posting inappropriate images of swastikas or pornography in front of their camera. 'It is extremely offensive, to members of the public, staff, myself, and members of our community that are just trying to go about our business,' Brown said. She thanked Justice Joseph Perfetto Thursday, for asking Zoom participants to identify themselves during a murder sentencing hearing. Those who would not identify themselves Thursday were left in the waiting room and not given access to the Espinosa Montes proceedings. The judge referenced a new memo circulated this week from the Ministry of the Solicitor General (MAG). New rules for Zoom So-called 'Zoom Bombing' is not a new problem. It first arose at the start of the pandemic after the platform's usage skyrocketed as a way for everything from church to court to continue despite lockdowns. Five years later, its such a problem, MAG has now restricted all public access to hearing links. 'Effective immediately, the Court has advised that the public will not be permitted to observe proceedings virtually. If the public would like to attend, they will be required to do so in-person,' Assistant Deputy Attorney General Katie Wood wrote in a memo to court staff dated July 16. Wood said there has been a 'notable rise' in bombing incidents recently which she describes as 'deeply upsetting and unacceptable'. Victims or complainants will have to receive approval and a link from either the Crown's office, or staff with the Victim/Witness Assistance Program. The media must specifically request access from the Court Communications Officer and identify themselves before gaining access. MAG has also updated its 'Reporting Zoom Bombings' tool, as a 'critical' part of the problem and to 'support justice security investigation efforts'. MAG is also warning court staff to verify usernames even if they appear to be law enforcement, counsel, legal students or interpreters. Brown doesn't believe the restriction on virtual links flies in the face of the 'open court' policy. 'The open court policy is still here for individuals to come down to the courthouse,' Brown said noting standing up in court and yelling profanities would see a person removed. 'When you are in a courtroom there are certain rules you have to adhere to.' Eric Costaris, Crown Attorney for Windsor and Essex County deferred comment to MAG. CTV News has reached out to Zoom for comment.
LBCI
6 days ago
- LBCI
Shocking crime in Jbeil: Security guard shot at tourist site
A horrific crime occurred Thursday afternoon in Jbeil, where an individual opened fire on a security guard as he carried out his duties at a tourist attraction. The guard later died from his injuries at the hospital. According to details of the incident, at around 4:30 p.m., M.A.G., born in 1952 and a resident of Tripoli, was shot at close range by N.N., who fled to an unknown location after committing the crime. The victim was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Security forces immediately arrived at the scene, cordoned off the crime scene, and opened an investigation to find out the details of the incident and track down the fleeing attacker.
The Sun
06-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysia Aviation Group exercises purchase rights for 20 additional A330neo aircraft
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of national carrier Malaysia Airlines, has exercised its purchase rights for 20 additional A330neo aircraft through a direct order with Airbus – reaffirming its commitment to a long-term strategy for fleet renewal and network development. With this latest acquisition, Malaysia Airlines is set to become one of the largest A330neo operators in the Asia-Pacific region – strengthening its position as a leading premium airline in one of the world's fastest-growing travel markets. This new order builds on MAG's initial commitment in 2022 for 20 A330neo aircraft – comprising 10 directly purchased and 10 leased from Avolon – bringing the group's total A330neo commitment to 40 aircraft to date. Deliveries from this additional batch are scheduled between 2029 and 2031. In a statement, MAG said the A330neo remains a cornerstone of MAG's fleet modernisation programme, enabling the group to serve high-growth markets more efficiently while enhancing the overall travel experience. MAG said the aircraft features the latest cabin design, including an all-suite Business Class with sliding privacy doors, full-flat beds, and direct aisle access. Across all cabin classes, passengers will enjoy refreshed interiors, next-generation seating, and the latest in-flight entertainment system – delivering a consistently premium journey in line with Malaysia Airlines' service standards. The expanded widebody fleet will enhance connectivity and drive network development across key markets in ASEAN, China, India, and Australasia – strengthening Malaysia Airlines' position as a leading premium carrier in the Asia-Pacific region. MAG managing director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail said, 'The A330neo continues to deliver the right balance of operational efficiency, range, and cabin comfort to support our network and growth strategy. With its enhanced fuel efficiency and flexibility across both regional and long-haul routes, the aircraft is a strong fit for our evolving market needs. It also allows us to offer a product that aligns with our premium positioning – streamlined, modern, and designed around passenger comfort and expectations. This additional order reinforces our long-term vision of building a future-ready fleet that supports sustainable growth, delivers consistent value to our passengers, and strengthens our competitiveness in key markets.' Airbus commercial aircraft executive vice-president sales Benoît de Saint-Exupéry said, 'We are proud to further strengthen our relationship with Malaysia Aviation Group as it expands its A330neo fleet. This repeat order is a strong endorsement of the A330neo's exceptional performance, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, as well as a testament to the aircraft's popularity among the world's premium airlines.' To date, MAG has taken delivery of four A330neo aircraft, currently operating on selected services to Auckland, Melbourne and Bali. Six more are scheduled for delivery by the end of the year, with the remaining aircraft from the original order set to arrive progressively through to 2028.
