In a move that drew widespread protests, Malaysia's National Fatwa Council of prominent Islamic scholars advised Muslims at the weekend to avoid yoga because it involves Hindu prayers that could compromise the faith of Muslims.

Text of report in English by Malaysian independent website Malaysiakini, owned by Mkinin Dotcom, on 18 September [Unattributed report: "PM rejects 'no confidence' session"] Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today rejected a call by Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim for an emergency Parliament session to debate a no-confidence motion.

Text of report in English by Malaysian official news agency Bernama website [Unattributed report from the "General" page: "Anwar Now A Threat To Economy And National Security, Says Abdullah"] Putrajaya, Sept 17 (Bernama) - Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said Wednesday that Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has now become a threat to the economy and national security.

By Arman Ahmad KUALA LUMPUR: A RM13.50 drive from here to Taiping? Based on current petrol prices the typical responses today might be "impossible" or "unimaginable". It costs a minimum of RM45 to make the 300km journey.

By Hamidah Atan PUTRAJAYA: The government will reduce fuel prices by a further 15 sen by end of the year if world crude oil prices stay at US$109 (RM374) per barrel.