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 Christmas Special Promo: Save 35% OFF Yearly. T&C applies.

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

Finding fault is easy, finding winning talent is difficult� �
Answers needed on Johor water
Goodbye to a topsy-turvy year�
So who killed the GEG?
War of words over Najib's house arrest issue
Critical need for CPR training
Top at Christmas, haunted by history as�Arsenal press on for title race
A fine show in Thailand, but we have to roar louder
Bridging civilisations, guarding identity: Malaysia’s role in China’s Global Civilisation Initiative
Enhancing intimacy with genital piercings

Others Also Read