Joseph Masilamany

As Johor goes to the polls tomorrow, the result will reverberate far beyond the state, testing the prime minister and his Unity Government. It will also measure the reach of the Islamist party PAS, offering fresh clues about the future of Malaysia's multi-ethnic model.

In the indigenous communities of Sabah and Sarawak, Gawai and Kaamatan are currently being celebrated. Many local Catholics today see these festivals as examples of Christian inculturation. And although some ancient rituals have faded over time, the spirit of gratitude, brotherhood and homecoming remains central.

According to Malaysia’s Prime Minister, measures to strengthen the system of Islamic courts will concern their organisation and not their jurisdiction over non-Muslims in a country where the balance with the civil courts remains a sensitive issue. The pitfall of possible differing interpretations depending on individual states

An appeal against laws allowing minors to convert to Islam with the consent of just one parent has been dismissed on procedural grounds. Eight years on from a landmark ruling that seemed set to change the situation, the issue continues to be a cause for concern among religious minorities.

Authorities say content likely originated from a China-based platform and sought to inflame tensions against the city-state’s Indian community, a key pillar of Singapore’s multicultural society.

A local study confirms the pervasive use of artificial intelligence, even among the youngest children. Researchers call on the government and families to pay more attention to the new technologies. In his encyclical, the pope urges education to also teach “when and for what purpose it ought not to be used it,” so as not to extinguish “the desire to ask questions”.

In his message for Hari Raya Aidiladha, the Festival of Sacrifice celebrated on 27 May, Sharafuddin Idris Shah issued an appeal against hatreds and divisions in response to tensions in his state, Malaysia's most populous territory. The sultan urges his compatriots to close ranks and avoid divisions that could weaken the community.

A 62-year-old man was found guilty of hurting religious feelings and harassing a woman. A Court ruled that attacks against places of worship threaten the city-state’s social and religious harmony. This is the latest in a series of cases prosecuted for offences against various communities.

Malaysian activists criticise what they describe as the country’s “selective” approach to humanitarian issues. Support for Muslims in the Middle East is counterbalanced by silence regarding violations committed in Myanmar and by China. The call to maintain “moral consistency” in the fight for causes and freedoms.

“Highway to Somewhere” is a TV series produced in Singapore but set in Malaysia, centred on an online scam network. It has drawn criticism from groups concerned about its impact on Malaysia’s image. The broadcaster that aired the series has dismissed the accusations, saying its goal was to raise awareness about the phenomenon of online scam centres in Southeast Asia.

Kuala Lumpur calls on the UN to review the peacekeeping mission, concerned for its 500 troops (Malbatt Battalion) on the ground. Meanwhile, patrols have been suspended. Jakarta calls for a thorough investigation into the deaths of three soldiers in March. A joint statement with 73 signatories was submitted to the Security Council.

Out of 107 recorded cases, 43, or about 40 per cent, involve parliament. This is the highest figure in the last 11 years, when the survey began. For the report, it is "a mirror held up to our society." Meanwhile, the arrest of a journalist is fuelling fears about freedom of the press and information.