SNAPSHOT | Dr M claims 'feel of fear' in M'sia; 'learning centre' leased to UN-backed NGO, Marang council clarifies

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2pm

Rule of law

• Former two-time prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad claimed there is a “feel of fear” in the nation, alleging that the country is “no longer under the rule of law” as legislation can supposedly be abused to “justify wrongdoings”.

  In a social media post last night, the centenarian asserted that the “frightening” situation has resulted in people feeling concerned over their safety as they allegedly do not feel protected by the law.

  “Wrong acts may be justified and the right (acts), according to the same law, may attract punishment. Clear criminal deeds are pardoned.

  “Serious crimes, obviously committed, are not investigated, but when no crimes are committed, investigations are stopped on orders,” Mahathir said without elaborating.

Refugees

• The Marang District Council has clarified that a premises at the Telaga Mengkudu Complex in Bukit Payong is legally leased to an NGO backed by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) since 2020, after allegations surfaced that it was a learning centre for Rohingya children.

  “The activities focus on basic learning, character development and the well-being of children in line with universal humanitarian principles.

  “The tenancy arrangement is part of the council’s asset management responsibilities and is carried out within the functions and jurisdiction of the local authority, subject to prevailing laws and regulations,” Bernama quoted it as saying in a statement.

  

  The council added that it has not received any official complaints throughout the tenancy period that could affect public safety, public order or community harmony.

READ MORE: What's behind the latest hate campaign against Rohingya?

Johor polls

• Johor PKR vice-chairperson Jimmy Puah said the Pakatan Harapan component will be vying for the Puteri Wangsa seat during the upcoming state polls.

  According to Free Malaysia Today, Puah said the decision was agreed by other Harapan parties, including Amanah, which is understood to have been hoping to wrest the seat from its incumbent Muda assemblyperson, Amira Aisya Abd Aziz.

  Yesterday, Johor Amanah chairperson Aminolhuda Hassan said no final decision had been reached on the allocation of two seats, namely Puteri Wangsa and Larkin.

READ MORE: Amanah eyes return to Parit Yaani, Kota Iskandar in Johor polls

Previously at 9am | PM urges Johor voters to pick wise, humble reps; nuclear inspectors to return to Iran: US veep

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