E-hailing drivers need more protection from unruly passengers, following rising cases of assault, intimidation and robbery being committed against them.

The Alliance For A Safe Community says the matter needs to be made a top priority by all stakeholders, including the government and e-hailing platform operators.

It also proposed the use of cabin cameras, better passenger verification, and the introduction of a panic button for drivers to get help in the event of an emergency.

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The Army has temporarily suspended all grenade exercises, following the deadly blast at a camp in Kedah that killed two soldiers.

The army chief says this is a necessary step to allow the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.

He adds that full assistance is also being provided to the families of the two victims, including all entitled compensation.

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The Works Ministry says the rising cost of construction materials is still manageable, with contractors still able to absorb the increase.

It also assured that it has a strategy to deal with any further sudden price increase.

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In other news…

The Pahang health department is conducting an investigation, amid claims that several visitors had fallen ill after bathing in a river at a recreational area in Bentong recently.

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Diesel will be 30 sen per liter cheaper for the coming week…while RON97 and unsubsidized RON95 remain unchanged.

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And…

The US and Iran have signed a memorandum of understanding to end hostilities between the two countries. 

The 14-point agreement includes an end to conflict on all fronts, for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and for Iran not to procure or buy any nuclear weapons.