Government Previously Rescued Utusan Malaysia And Kosmo!, Says PM Anwar

PETALING JAYA, Nov 4 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that the federal government had previously intervened to assist and rescue the publisher of Utusan Malaysia and Kosmo! during past operational and financial difficulties.

Speaking to reporters after attending the 2026 World Town Planning Day celebration in Petaling Jaya on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Anwar stated that questions regarding the media group’s current rationalisation exercise should be addressed directly to its publisher, Media Mulia Sdn Bhd.

“We have rescued it once before,” Anwar remarked when asked whether Media Mulia’s recent decision to place approximately 100 employees on paid leave was justified and whether affected staff would receive compensation packages.

The event in Petaling Jaya also marked the official launch of the Fifth National Physical Plan (RFN5) and the Third National Urbanisation Policy (DPN3).

Anwar’s comments follow an internal announcement on November 2 by Media Mulia Director and Chief Financial Officer Abd Wahid Idris, who confirmed that roughly 100 staff members would be placed under a Paid Leave Programme.

Abd Wahid explained that the publisher is actively restructuring its operational model, organizational framework, and strategic focus to navigate persistent economic headwinds and maintain long-term commercial viability in the print and digital media sectors.

Government Intervention History, Rationalisation Details, and Company Restructuring

Key details surrounding the media publisher’s rationalisation exercise and government response include:

• Government Standpoint: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted previous federal rescue efforts, noting that current operational decisions remain under Media Mulia management.
• Affected Workforce: Approximately 100 employees placed under a Paid Leave Programme as part of Media Mulia’s business restructuring.
• Corporate Rationale: Media Mulia CFO Abd Wahid Idris cited ongoing media industry disruption and the need to realign business strategies for long-term viability.
• Event Context: Prime Minister’s remarks were made during the 2026 World Town Planning Day celebration alongside the launch of RFN5 and DPN3.

–NMT