NST looks back at Malaysia's key moments in 2025 [WATCH]

By NST in December 31, 2025 – Reading time 4 minute

KUALA LUMPUR: As the year draws to a close, Malaysia has witnessed a series of defining moments that reshaped laws, tested institutions and stirred national conversation.

From landmark legislation and political shifts to tragedy, triumph and accountability, the New Straits Times brings you the stories that shaped the nation in 2025.

NATION

Rights for gig economy workers

The Dewan Negara passed the landmark Gig Workers Bill, granting more than 1.2 million gig workers the right to negotiate wages and improve working conditions.

Then-Human Resources Minister Steven Sim said the proposed consultative council to determine sector-based wages would not be symbolic, but one with real enforcement “fangs”.

Anti-bullying law becomes reality

The Anti-Bullying Bill 2025 was passed, mandating comprehensive anti-bullying guidelines across all educational institutions for students under 18.

Law Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the law binds multiple ministries, including Education and Rural and Regional Development.

Asean Summit on home ground

Kuala Lumpur played host to the 47th Asean Summit, welcoming world leaders, including US President Donald Trump.

Key outcomes included Timor-Leste’s admission into Asean, the signing of the KL Peace Accord by Thailand and Cambodia, and a lighter moment that saw President Trump dancing on the Kuala Lumpur International Airport tarmac.

Putra Heights gas explosion

A massive gas pipeline blaze at Putra Heights, Selangor, sent shockwaves through surrounding communities, with flames visible kilometres away.

An independent panel was appointed to review the incident, while over 36 residents filed a RM68 million lawsuit against Petronas Gas, local authorities and developers following the April 1 explosion that displaced hundreds.

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BUSINESS

RON95 subsidy reforms bring cheers

Budi95 was rolled out, easing the financial burden for the public.

By Nov 30, about 13.9 million Malaysians had purchased 2.59 billion litres of subsidised petrol, totalling over RM5.16 billion in sales.

Sara aid eases cost of living

More than 850,000 Malaysians spent over RM50 million on the first day of the RM100 Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah aid rollout.

Under the 2026 Budget, the government confirmed a second RM100 Sara payout for all adult Malaysians scheduled for mid-Feb 2026, timed to help households ahead of Ramadan and Chinese New Year.

CRIME

Zara Qairina case shocks Sabah

Investigations into the sudden death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir uncovered possible links to bullying, leading authorities to exhume her body.

Five teenage girls were charged in August, an inquest began in September, and investigations remain ongoing.

Bandar Utama school stabbing

A stabbing at a Bandar Utama school claimed the life of Yap Shing Xuen, sending shockwaves nationwide.

Her 14-year-old schoolmate was charged with murder and is undergoing extended psychiatric evaluation. Yap was laid to rest on Oct 20 amid emotional scenes attended by more than 300 mourners.

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SPORTS

Fifa sanctions hit Malaysian football

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) was fined RM1.9 million, and seven players were banned for 12 months after Fifa found that forged documents were used to justify naturalised players used in the Asian Cup qualifiers.

Appeals were rejected in November, with Fifa ruling that falsified ancestry claims had given Malaysia an “undue gain”.

Sepak takraw delivers final gold

The national men’s sepak takraw squad secured Malaysia’s final gold medal at the Thailand SEA Games, defeating Vietnam in the regu final.

Malaysia finished fourth overall with 231 medals, including 57 gold, 57 silver and 117 bronze.

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COURT

Najib’s house arrest bid rejected; convicted of money laundering, abuse of power

Datuk Seri Najib Razak will remain in Kajang Prison after the High Court rejected his bid for house arrest, ruling that the alleged “royal order” cited by the defence was never officially discussed.

Separately, Najib was found guilty of abuse of power and money laundering involving 1MDB funds. He was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment and fined RM13.4 billion. He has appealed the conviction.

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Sabah mining graft charges

Businessman Albert Tei and Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, who was the former senior political secretary to the prime minister, were charged with multiple counts of graft linked to mineral mining licences in Sabah.

POLITICS

Hajiji secures second term

Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor was sworn in as chief minister for a second term after cwon 29 seats in the 17th Sabah state elections.

Cabinet reshuffle

Seven ministers, including two new appointees and eight deputy ministers, were appointed in December under a Cabinet reshuffle, which Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said was necessary to address vacancies and recalibrate the Madani government.