Veteran lawmaker sworn in to lead Negeri Sembilan after BN-PN sweep
Plus: Malaysia's Commonwealth Games campaign concludes, ringgit holds strength, technology sector eyes AI opportunities.
TL;DR
- Ismail Lasim sworn in as Negeri Sembilan menteri besar after BN-PN won 25 of 36 state seats.
- Malaysia's Commonwealth Games campaign ended with seven gold medals, exceeding the five-gold target.
- The Malaysian ringgit remains resilient amid strong economic growth and AI-driven export prospects.
Politics
Ismail Lasim takes office as Negeri Sembilan menteri besar
Datuk Ismail Lasim was sworn in on August 2 as Negeri Sembilan's new menteri besar before Yang Dipertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir at Istana Besar Seri Menanti. The lawyer and four-term state assemblyman, who won the Juasseh seat with a 4,091-vote majority, brings nearly three decades of electoral politics and a decade of state executive council experience managing portfolios including public works, telecommunications, and education (via Malay Mail).
Coalition consolidates control. Ismail's appointment completes the transition of power after Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional claimed 25 of 36 seats in August 1 polling, ending Pakatan Harapan's eight-year hold on the state. His executive council lineup is expected by Friday (via The Star).
Sports
Malaysia closes Glasgow campaign with seven gold medals
Malaysia's Commonwealth Games delegation wrapped up in Glasgow on August 2 with seven gold medals—exceeding the pre-Games target of five—plus three silver and three bronze for a total of 13 medals. The haul marks Malaysia's best result since New Delhi 2010, driven by dominant performances in weightlifting, track cycling and a historic first gold in judo (via Malay Mail).
