It’s Monday, 19 October, and these are the updates for you.
Firstly, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has condemned online threats against a Universiti Malaya student who questioned donations collected to help former prime minister Najib Razak pay his fine.
Fahmi said threats and cyberbullying were unacceptable, and encouraged those affected to report such incidents to the police or the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, or MCMC.
Meanwhile, Pakatan Harapan has completed its candidate-vetting process ahead of the Melaka state election, including checks by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.
Candidates are expected to sign a bond carrying financial penalties if they violate the coalition’s conditions. The penalty could reach RM10 million, based on the bond imposed on a previous member of parliament.
The coalition is expected to announce its candidates on 24 October. Polling for the Melaka state election is scheduled for 14 November, with nominations on 31 October and early voting on 10 November.
Secondly, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission is investigating Threads content allegedly insulting Negeri Sembilan’s royal institution.
A statement was recorded at the Labu police station, while a mobile phone and electronic SIM card were seized for forensic examination.
The investigation is being conducted under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which concerns the improper use of network facilities or services.
Authorities have yet to conclude their investigation.
Thirdly, the Social Security Organisation, or PERKESO, has enhanced its Employment Insurance System benefits to provide greater support for workers who lose their jobs.
The improvements took effect on 1 October and include changes to re-employment assistance and additional financial support for eligible jobseekers.
The Early Re-employment Allowance has increased from 25 per cent to 50 per cent of the remaining Job Search Allowance. Eligible jobseekers who secure employment more than 100 kilometres from their homes can also receive a mobility allowance of RM1,000.
The daily training allowance remains at RM30, while the maximum training fee is RM7,000. The overall support and protection available under the enhanced system can reach RM25,000.
PERKESO reported that more than 117,000 jobseekers had been placed in employment between January and August this year.
The enhancements are intended to help displaced workers return to employment while easing some of the financial challenges associated with job searching and retraining.
Fourthly, the Finance Ministry has dismissed claims circulating online that new service charges for QR payments will take effect on 1 November.
The ministry said the viral poster making the claim was false, urging the public not to spread misleading information.
Consumers and businesses are advised to refer to official announcements from the relevant authorities and payment providers for accurate information about transaction fees.
Meanwhile, Kelantan police have opened two investigation papers following a viral incident involving a social media activist and members of the Myanmar refugee community.
The investigations concern allegations of wrongful restraint and public nuisance, as well as a separate robbery allegation involving Rohingya individuals.
Two local men have been arrested in connection with the case. The activist, who was detained alongside 12 others on Saturday, was released on Sunday.
The incident has drawn attention to tensions surrounding the Myanmar refugee community. The Home Minister has also cited 199 criminal cases involving Myanmar refugees between 2022 and August this year.
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and the allegations made by the parties involved.
Moving to flood updates, most temporary relief centres in Penang, Pahang and Kedah have closed as water levels improve and evacuees return home.
In Penang, the relief centre at SK Seri Penanti has closed, allowing 36 evacuees from 10 families to return home.
In Pahang, two relief centres have also closed, with 26 evacuees from 11 families returning home. Kedah’s relief centre in Jitra has likewise closed, following the return of 26 evacuees from eight families.
However, two relief centres remain open in Perak. As of 4pm on Sunday, 202 people from 69 families were still seeking shelter.
Authorities continue to monitor conditions in affected areas and will provide further updates as the situation develops.
And now, moving on to international news, French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned violence, looting and vandalism following nationwide protests over the cost of living and education.
The demonstrations have drawn hundreds of thousands of people, with protesters voicing concerns over economic pressures and the state of the education system.
Authorities have reported more than 2,000 arrests amid clashes and damage to property, increasing pressure on the government to restore order while addressing public concerns.
Macron has called for discussions involving students, teachers, lawmakers, trade unions and businesses as the authorities seek a way forward.
The unrest highlights wider public frustration over living costs and access to education, with the government facing the challenge of balancing public order with demands for meaningful action.
And that’s your catch-up with Newsenz for today.
Stay informed, stay ahead.