Tenaga Nasional cut to hold as subsidy costs rise; 5-year-old found dead after alleged river attack

TA Securities and UOB Kay Hian have both revised Tenaga Nasional Berhad’s rating to "hold" after the power company committed to fund additional electricity subsidies estimated at RM120-150 million for households consuming less than 800 kWh monthly, an action expected to cut earnings by two to three percent this year. The analysts cited heightened regulatory risk and uncertainty over future subsidy obligations beyond December.

RHB Research, however, maintained a "buy" stance, arguing the extra cost is absorbable and that lower fuel prices could support profitability. Meanwhile, in Kota Tinggi, Johor, police identified a 37-year-old man as the suspect in the death of his five-year-old niece, who was found dead after being allegedly thrown into a river. District police chief Yusof Othman reported that the suspect was arrested after a confrontation that left an officer injured, and the investigation proceeds under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries a penalty of death or 30-40 years imprisonment.