A year of changes – or not


Clear warning: A ‘no-smoking’ sign outside of a restaurant in Johor Baru.

WHERE did the year go? It feels like it was New Year just weeks ago and here we are about to step into 2026.

The memories of the end of 2024 are still so fresh. We were looking forward to a year of upheaval. New smoking laws, the end of fuel subsidies, wage reform, a boost in public transport with pedestrians as the key – these were all in the works.

The Star Festive Promo: Get 35% OFF Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Columnists

Choosing the right pill for erectile dysfunction
Thailand’s colourful elections
Alliance faultlines emerge
Livestock must go where the land is
Don’t panic, TB is treatable and containable
Malaysia urged to issue extradition request for Israeli President Isaac Herzog
Hannah Yeoh lands in hot seat
How silence fuels KL rubbish crisis�
Curious tempest over temples
Will KL have an elected mayor?

Others Also Read