Malaysia Edition: Former finance minister Daim dies | U Mobile deal sparks cronyism talk

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Tun Daim Zainuddin passed away this morning, aged 86. 

He was one of the most influential figures in Malaysia’s political and corporate circles, since being appointed Finance Minister in 1984 under the Mahathir Mohamad government.

Earlier this year, he was charged with failure to declare his assets to the national anti-graft agency, a case he described as a political witch hunt trumped up by his long-time rival, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. 

In other news, the government has faced claims of favouritism over the past week, after the prized award of 5G spectrum went to the smallest telco among three bidders. 

U Mobile has insisted its track record from over 17 years of operations should inspire confidence that it can roll out the high-speed mobile network nationwide. But critics continue to question why the firm won out against its more established rivals.

 

Follow ST’s coverage as we continue to bring you the latest developments.


Former finance minister Daim Zainuddin dies at 86

His lawyer said he was admitted to hospital in October.

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U Mobile’s winning bid for 5G spectrum sparks talk of cronyism

U Mobile’s win ahead of larger rivals has drawn attention to its owners – Malaysia’s King and Singapore’s Temasek.

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Anwar promotes Asean as gateway on third visit to China, ahead of Malaysia’s chairmanship of group

But disputes over the South China Sea cast a shadow over Kuala Lumpur-Beijing ties.

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Singapore, Malaysia leaders meet to advance discussions on special economic zone

Both sides will work towards signing an agreement at a leaders’ retreat expected to be held later in 2024.

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Young people in the region need to collaborate, say Asian Future Summit panellists

The voice of the youth vote has also become louder in the region.

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Johor housewife charged after allegedly conspiring to kidnap her husband for $6 million ransom

Chan Wan Kooi is accused of conspiring with accomplices to kidnap her 59-year-old husband.

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