Local News Archives

Affected by Cold Weather, Qabil Irfan Remains Positive

Malaysia’s young rider Qabil Irfan Azlan said his debut in the 2024 Spanish Superbike Championship (ESBK) at the Jerez Circuit was affected by cold weather and a slippery track, but he saw it as a positive development.

The 2023 MiniGP World Series Championship world champion finished Race 1 in a good sixth place.

Unfortunately, the slippery circuit conditions due to the cold weather resulted in a more challenging Race 2 for Qabil.

“I’m not very happy with this result (Race 2) because I’m not good with the bike. The circuit was slippery, cold and the tires slid. I also need to improve my riding style during the race that took place in cold weather,” said Qabil.

Regardless, Qabil and his ZK Racing manager, Zulfahmi Khairuddin will improve their performance in the second round of the season which will take place at the Valencia Circuit from May 30 to June 2.

“Our purpose in coming here is to give Qabil an early experience of racing in Europe. The result in Race 1 is a proud result while the result for Race 2 is a valuable experience for us to improve on in the next round.

“All week here Qabil spent the session in ninth and 10th place but in the race, Qabil was with the front group competing for the podium. Qabil finished Race 1 in sixth place.

“But, for Race 2 it was a difficult race for Qabil. He didn’t feel confident with the bike, the circuit felt slippery from the first lap until the end of the race because of the cold weather.

“This is a good experience for Qabil and the team. We will return to Malaysia to train well for round 2 in Valencia,” said Zulfahmi.

30 Students Nabbed during Anti Road Hooligan Ops

Despite the many cases of deaths, injuries and arrests, 30 secondary school students were among the 178 individuals arrested by the police in a combined Anti Hooligan Ops at Jalan Jelapang, near Ipoh.

The operation started at 2.30 in the morning and was carried out by a team of 72 officers and members of the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) of the Ipoh District Police Headquarters (IPD) together with the Perak National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK).

Ipoh District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad said, those arrested for various offenses consisted of 166 men and 12 women aged between 15 and 34 years.

“Among those arrested were 30 secondary school students and four students of higher education institutes (IPT).

“Of the 143 motorcycles detained, a total of 19 were confiscated for various offences, the most serious of which was modifying vehicles in accordance with Section 64(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 and a total of 302 summonses were issued to road users,” he said.

Apart from that, there were also some individuals who are high. The result of a urine screening test conducted by AADK found that five individuals tested positive for drugs, one of whom had been arrested for the same offence last year.

“The Narcotics Crime Investigation Division of IPD Ipoh and AADK will take further action on the five individuals.

“This operation was planned for the purpose of combating the activities of road hooligans for which the police have received many complaints from residents for disturbing public order,” he said.

20 Summonses, 3 Confiscation for Exhaust Modifications

A total of 20 summonses were issued and 3 motorcycles confiscated for the offence of modifying the motorcycle’s exhaust in the Operasi Motosikal (Motorcycle Operation) in the Bukit Ampang Saujana area, yesterday (7th April 2024).

Ampang Jaya District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mohd Azam Ismail said, the operation from 11pm to 3am was carried out by the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division of the Ampang Jaya District Police Headquarters (IPD) with a senior officer and 14 members.

According to him, the operations focused more on motorcycles, as usual.

“This is because the vehicle is often seen with structural modifications, especially on the exhaust which disturbs public order.

“As a result of the operation, a total of six individuals were checked along with six vehicles and a total of 20 summonses were issued for common offences such as driving without a valid license, registration number not in accordance with specifications, modification of the exhaust and also other offences,” he said.

He said, in addition, three motorbikes were confiscated in accordance with Section 64(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 and Section 6(4) of the same act for making extreme modifications to the exhaust and the brakes not working.

“The seized vehicle was brought back to the Ampang Traffic Police Station for further action.

“The celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri will arrive soon, therefore the next of kin and guardians are reminded to monitor the children’s activities more closely,” he said.

CFMoto 1250MT Reportedly Being Developed

A CFMoto 1250MT is reportedly being developed.

CFMoto is KTM’s partner in producing the engines for several of the latter’s models, namely the 790 and 890 series. What is missing from CFMoto’s lineup is a heavyweight adventure bike. That may be about to change, since their 1250TR-G tourer is already using KTM’s LC8 V-Twin from the previous 1290 Super Duke and Super Adventure.

According to sources, CFMoto’s version of the LC8 is downsized to 1279cc from 1301cc. It produces 140hp in the 1250TR-G guise to rival the BMW R 1300 GS and Triumph Tiger 1200. There is also word that the 1250MT will be road focused only, unlike the KTM 1290/1390 Super Adventure which has two variants.

Nothing is confirmed thus far, although the picture is from CFMoto. As such, it should feature all that are available on the KTM including ride modes, traction control, cornering ABS, cornering lights, quickshifter, TFT screen with smartphone connectivity, etc.

It has to be said that several Chinese motorcycle manufacturers are aiming for the world markets and have moved away from throwaway cheap copies. The country’s automotive industry, especially for EVs is now challenging the best the world could offer. It is just a matter of time.

No Recording TikTok Videos while Driving – Warns JPJ

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) warned that they will take action against road users who were reported or detected recording TikTok videos while driving.

The department said this regarding the actions of an express bus driver who was spotted making live recordings through the TikTok application while driving. JPJ will take immediate action against the driver.

JPJ’s Senior Director of Enforcement, Datuk Lokman Jamaan, said his side will place undercover officers in every express bus to ensure that no driver commits the offence.

In addition, he said, the cooperation of the public in recording videos or photos of drivers who act in this way is also welcome.” They can send it to us along with the date and location of the trip to make it easier for us to take action.

“Previously, there have been cases like this but for Ops HRA this time, no complaints have been received so far.

“If they are found to have committed the offence, they can be taken action immediately. However, the journey can still continue,” he added.

During the operation, he also inspected the express bus using special equipment to ensure that the tire thickness was not bald, and that the traffic lights were in good condition.

Motorcyclist Killed After Hitting Car Door

A motorcyclist was killed after hitting a car door that was opened by a car driver in Kampung FELCRA Teratak Batu, Jalan Pasir Puteh-Machang yesterday.

Pasir Puteh District Police Chief, Superintendent Zaizul Rizal Zakaria said the driver of a Proton Persona stopped his car at the side of the road and opened the door to get out. At the same time, the victim riding a Honda Dash motorcycle from the same direction hit the car door before losing control and was thrown into the opposite lane.

Unfortunately, the victim was hit by a Perodua Alza that came from the opposite direction and crashed into the victim.

In the incident at 11.30 am, the 37-year-old victim died at the scene due to head injuries.

“The deceased victim was taken to Tengku Anis Hospital, Pasir Puteh for a post-mortem examination while the two car drivers were not injured.

“The case is being investigated in accordance with Section 41 (1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

“Any individual who has information regarding the incident can go to the nearest police station or contact the traffic investigating officer, Inspector Henry Dass Tevatus at 016-5072413,” said Superintendent Zaizul Rizal.

Anxious Moment in Kembara Jelebu-Makkah, Wife Struck by AMS

We featured the news about a couple who are riding a motorcycle in the Kembara Jelebu-Makkah to perform the Hajj. They had to use the Himalayan Range route as the route through Myanmar was unsafe due to conflicts in that country. However, they faced an anxious moment when his wife was struck with AMS.

Mohd. Rahmat Mohammed Amin, 38, when contacted by Berita Harian, said they faced a worrying moment when his wife Nurazlinda Mohamad, 36, was struck with acute mountain syndrome (AMS) at an altitude of 5000 meters while passing through the Lhasa-Tibet route in the Himalayan Range.

“Thankfully, there were residents who happened to be passing through the route and helped my wife by giving her oxygen and taking her in a car.

“They forbade her to ride on a my motorbike and instead they put the wife in a car before being taken to a lower area on the route.

“Someone also gave my wife a glucose drink and now my wife’s condition is getting better,” he said.

Mohd. Rahmat said they had to endure riding in blizzard conditions with temperatures ranging from one to 0-degrees Celsius twice during the five days on the route,

With about 700km left before reaching the China-Nepal border, the cold weather had also disrupted the journey which was already a day later than the original schedule. Therefore, he will try to reach the border of Nepal on Monday.

He also hopes that Malaysians can pray for their affairs throughout the journey to be simplified so that they arrive safely in Makkah on May 5.

Mohd Rahmat and his wife started their motorcycle journey from Jelebu on March 19, crossing 13 countries covering a distance of 14,000km.

AMS occurs when a person is exposed to extreme altitude for more than 2 hours due to lack of oxygen. Please refer to the infographic from Mount Kinabalu’s Facebook page below.

Subsidies Removal will not Bring Negative Effects – Analyst

Analysts of a market research firm expect rationalization measures (including the withdrawal) of targeted subsidies will not have significant negative effects on consumers and businesses.

TA Securities also said the government should continue to reduce subsidies and increase income despite political pressure to achieve the annual deficit target of 4.3 percent for 2024 compared to 5.0 percent in 2023. Deficit reduction is expected to increase confidence in the government’s ability to reduce deficit and debt.

They added, the Fiscal Responsibility Act states to achieve a three percent fiscal deficit target between 2026 and 2028.

TA Securities also expects a gradual increase in fuel prices at the pump.

An increase in the price of RON 95 petrol by 40 cents per liter can reduce subsidies by RM10 billion. It is based on the indication of a subsidy reduction of RM11.4 billion to RM52.8 million in the 2024 Budget.

Regardless, the firm said the B40 and M40 groups to a certain extent should receive cash assistance from the government to offset the negative impact of rising prices of petrol and other goods.

They also explained that those income groups will realize their purchasing power is smaller.

“For example, translating an increase of 40 sen as 20 percent based on the current price of RON95 at RM2.05 per litre, the average consumer who spends RM300 a month on petrol will see an increase of RM60 a month in their monthly bill,” he said.

TA Securities said, following the price increase following the implementation of the targeted subsidy, it is important for the government to focus on effective monitoring and enforcement of regulations. The move is to prevent unethical businesses and individuals from exploiting the situation by dramatically increasing the prices of their goods and services.

Qabil Irfan Azlan is Ready for ESBK

Malaysia’s young racer, Qabil Irfan Azlan is ready to challenge the international riders in the first round of the Spanish Superbike Championship (ESBK) 2024 at the Jerez Circuit, this weekend.

Qabil is the country’s sole representative at the tournament in the Moto4 class. He feels he has adapted to the machine in a test session last month.

“This is my first experience in Europe, I usually come here for the race only. My preparation is to practice with the machine and do fitness training. I also train as usual in this month of Ramadan.

“Before this, I participated in the test session in Jerez. I am confident with the bike and also the management of the team. Regardless, I have to learn more and I hope to be able to compete in the front group and win,” said Qabil as a rider for VHC Frando Racing from Spain .

Previously, the move of ZK Racing and the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) to ESBK was to expand the wings of Qabil’s career after he showed excellent performance to emerge world champion in the 2023 MiniGP World Series Championship.

In the meantime, the Chief Executive Officer of SIC, Azhan Shafriman Hanif said, his side has high hopes for the young rider.

“It’s not easy for a young man like Qabil, who is only 12 years old but has the opportunity to race in Europe. Our hopes are quite high for Qabil to do his best. Under Zulfahmi, we are confident that Qabil will achieve the excellence he deserves.

“For KPI, in the first year, we estimate to be in the top 15. He will also race in the 190cc Malaysian MiniGP Series,” said Shafriman when met after the SIC 2024 Ramadan Iftar, yesterday.

Kawasaki Johor Bahru Opened

Edaran Modenas Sdn. Bhd. (EMOS), the wholly owned subsidiary of Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn. Bhd. (MODENAS) celebrated the successful launch of its fourth All-Star showroom, Kawasaki Johor Bahru today.

The grand opening was officiated by Qbee Ng, Director of Kawasaki Johor Bahru, saw together with EMOS Chief Executive Officer Roslan Roskan, CEO, and Chief Marketing Officer George Kashiwagi.

During the ceremony, Kawasaki Johor Bahru and EMOS handed over three units of the recently launched Modenas ZX25-RR to its first owners in Johor.

Drawing a crowd of 700 people, the event also featured exciting activities including test rides, lucky draws, and various family-friendly entertainment.

Managed by Qbee Superbike Sdn. Bhd., KJB was officially appointed as a Kawasaki All-Star Dealer – the first in Johor – in March 2023. Founded by Qbee Ng, who started off as a motorcycle mechanic, in 1987, Qbee Superbike has grown into one of the nation’s largest motorcycle importers and exporters., now holding the title of an official Kawasaki All-Star Dealer.

“In celebration of our 1st first anniversary as an official Kawasaki All-Star dealer, the opening of Kawasaki Johor BahruKawasaki Johor BahruKJB signifies our commitment to building the Kawasaki brand in Malaysia. The showroom serves not only as a platform to showcase the latest Kawasaki technology and products, but also as a community hub for motorcycle enthusiasts to share their experiences and stories,” Qbee Ng said.

EMOS plans to open eight more by December 2024. The new ZX-25RR is now available at all authorised Kawasaki All-Star dealers.

For inquiries or additional information about the dealer showroom, please visit the official KAWASAKI website at https://www.kawasaki.com.my/kawasaki/shop. The new ZX25RR is now available at all authorised Kawasaki All-Star dealers. The latest news on MODENAS and Kawasaki bikes is also available at

Stay updated on the latest news by visiting the official MODENAS and/or KAWASAKI Malaysia website at https://modenas.my/v2/ and/or http://www.kawasaki.com.my/home, or by calling . You can also reach out via the Toll-Free Line at 1-800-880-008 or the WhatsApp Careline at +6019-570 8135.

SYM Maxsym TL508 Launched in Malaysia

MForce Bikes Sdn. Bhd. also launched the SYM Maxsym TL508 maxi scooter alongside the SYM Husky 150.

SYM Husky 150 Launched in Malaysia

According to the press release, it has a perfect body configuration with 50/50 weight distribution to ensure excellent handling performance.

Highlights and features:

There is only one variant unlike the Husky 150, with three colour options available, namely Indigo Blue,
Storm Gray, and Jet Black.
Its introductory selling price is RM46,888.00, excluding road tax and insurance.

The engine is enlarged from 465cc in the Maxsym TL500 to 508cc in the current Maxsym TL508.
The parallel-twin produces 45.0 hp (33.5 kW) at 6,750rpm and 49.9Nm of torque at 5,250rpm.

A 12.5-liter fuel tank feeds the engine.
There are traction control (TCS) and dual-channel ABS, too.

As per the Husky, the TL508 also features a TFT screen, although its size was not stated in the press release.
There is also no mention if the rider can connect his smartphone to the TFT.

Keyless ignition is standard.
Full LED lighting and signals.

Adjustable windscreen.
Seat with anti-slip cover, with waist support for the rider and passenger.

Two-year unlimited mileage warranty.
Online genuine parts purchase service by MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

Photo gallery

SYM Husky 150 Launched in Malaysia

The much-awaited SYM Husky 150 was launched in Malaysia yesterday, by the official country distributor MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

SYM Maxsym TL508 launched in Malaysia

MForce says the SYM Husky 150 was “Inspired by adventure features,” and that it “is a scooter full of personality.” In simpler terms, it is an addition to the adventure scooter bandwagon.

Highlights and features:

There are two variations: Standard, and Special Edition.
The RM9,998.00 Standard version is offered in Ebony Black, and Pure White.

While the RM10,298.00 Special Edition variant gets Matte Green, and Wolf Gray.
Its engine is a 150cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, 4-valve unit which produces 14.5 hp (10.8 kW) at 8,000

RPM and 14.5 Nm of torque at 6,000 RPM.
Enlarged 15-litre fuel tank.

5-inch TFT instrument panel with auto dimming, plus day and night display modes.
Keyless locking and ignition system with an emergency ignition mode if the key’s battery is weak.