SHAH ALAM, Jan 1 — A wide range of events shaped Malaysia throughout 2025, from development achievements and reassuring announcements to heart-wrenching tragedies. What truly happened? Let us look back.
January:
Malaysia began the year with distinction. It officially assumed the role of Asean chair for the fifth time, demonstrating the trust placed in the nation and its leadership within the region.
February:
On February 8, the nation was shaken by a shooting incident at Setia City Mall in Setia Alam. A man fired eight shots before fleeing the scene after hijacking a family’s vehicle.
After a 10-day manhunt, the tense episode ended on February 18 in Pulau Ketam, Klang, when the suspect was shot dead. Calm was restored nationwide.
March:
On March 19, a ray of hope emerged once again. The government reached a new agreement with Ocean Infinity to resume the search for MH370. The 'no find, no fee' concept carried a clear message; the search is not over.
April:
On April 1, Putra Heights in Subang Jaya was rocked by a gas pipeline explosion. Homes were destroyed and lives put at risk. The state government stepped forward to assist, including providing support for the victims to rebuild their lives.
May:
May 13 marked a tragedy that deeply affected Malaysia. Nine members of the Federal Reserve Unit lost their lives in an accident in Teluk Intan, Perak, involving an overloaded lorry. The nation mourned as questions surrounding road safety resurfaced.
June:
On June 9, a Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris bus accident stunned the country. A bus carrying students was involved in a crash in Gerik, Perak, claiming the lives of 15 students. The nation lost a generation of knowledge bearers and future hope.
July:
On July 17, the death of Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir in Sabah raised serious questions: How safe are our children in boarding schools?
August:
On August 1, Malaysia reshaped its labour landscape. The minimum wage was increased to RM1,700 per month, offering fresh relief to workers who form the backbone of the economy.
September:
On September 9, history was made. The Gig Workers Bill 2025 was passed by Parliament. More than 1.2 million gig workers now enjoy welfare protection, social security, and collective wage negotiation rights.
October:
On October 2, a royal ceremony was conducted with full decorum as the Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah wedded Datin Paduka Seri Afzaa Fadini Dato’ Abdul Aziz.
November:
On November 29, attention turned to Sabah. Gabungan Rakyat Sabah won the highest number of seats in the 17th State Election.
December:
On December 26, the courts marked a historic moment. Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak was found guilty on 25 charges related to 1MDB funds and was fined RM11.4 billion.
Malaysia 2025: a year filled with defining moments, reminding us to continue moving forward with hope and confidence towards a better future.
