BLAST CONDEMNED (Aug 8): Malaysia joins the rest of the world in condemning the bomb blast in Jakarta, but the incident is not likely to affect tourist arrivals or the country's economic growth, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad. This was because the country had already proven its mettle in dealing with potential terrorist threats. However, Malaysia would continue to be vigilant and increase its surveillance to prevent similar attacks in the country.
PUTIN VISIT (Aug 5): Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived here for a two-day visit, the first ever by a Russian leader to the country. Malaysia sealed a deal to buy fighter jets from Russia, which in return, will purchase Malaysia's palm oil, provide transfer of space technology and train a Malaysian astronaut.
