The stories shaping Malaysia, in focus.
Thai authorities rescued three Indian tourists from captivity in Pattaya after they were abducted by a transnational gang demanding ransom. The rescue followed a tip from the Indian Embassy, with police identifying and raiding the detention site.
Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Hamidi says Malaysia will gain economically from hosting the Bahrain Grand Prix, citing expected surges in tourism numbers and international prominence attracting fresh foreign investment.
Malaysia will host the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit in October 2026, providing an economic boost to tourism and hospitality sectors while requiring minimal government investment since Bahrain bears the costs.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has inaugurated Citrawarna 2026, a major cultural showcase featuring 3,500 dancers from across Malaysia's states and Federal Territories, as part of the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
Italy's Bangkok embassy has formally apologised after Italian teenagers sparked public fury aboard a BTS Skytrain train, with student representatives issuing a direct apology video and pledging to return home.
Fifteen Indian tourists died when a speedboat capsized near Phu Quoc Island in southern Vietnam on Saturday. The vessel was carrying 36 people when it overturned, with 21 rescued and all fatalities recovered.
Malaysia's Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has allocated RM400,000 to upgrade Melaka's Gasing Pangkah Delima Court, positioning it as a regional hub for heritage sports and international competitions.
Kelantan's leadership has pledged to preserve the state's rich cultural heritage while maintaining alignment with Islamic principles. The Menteri Besar outlined how traditional arts, crafts and games remain central to the state's identity and economic development.
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture is pressing tour bus operators and industry groups to urgently provide diesel consumption records and fuel cost comparisons, which the government needs to design appropriate financial relief measures.