Malaysia: commitment to fight against invasive fish species
In Malaysia, invasive fish species like the suckermouth catfish are threatening the nation’s rivers and native aquatic life. Originally introduced for aquariums, the hardy suckermouth has proliferated in polluted rivers, outcompeting local species, spreading disease, and causing environmental damage such as riverbank erosion. The Klang Valley, along with many other waterways, is now overrun by these aggressive invaders. Alarmed, Mohamad Haziq founded a volunteer group during the Covid lockdowns to combat the ecological threat. Dubbed Malaysia’s ‘foreign fish hunter squad’, the group now boasts over 1,000 members and meets weekly to catch and remove invasive fish. While suckermouths are largely considered undesirable, their eggs are used for bait, and researchers are exploring potential uses for the fish - including biochar, leather, fertiliser, and pharmaceutical collagen. Despite acknowledging the fight may never be fully won, the group remains committed to raising awareness and protecting Malaysia’s fragile river ecosystems, one net at a time.
USA: Biden diagnosed with ‘aggressive’ prostate cancer
Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. The diagnosis followed recent urinary symptoms and revealed a high-grade, aggressive form of the disease. However, the cancer is hormone-sensitive, meaning it may respond well to treatment. Biden and his family are currently considering treatment options. The news has drawn sympathy from across the political spectrum. Donald Trump expressed support for Biden and his family, wishing him a swift recovery. Other political figures voiced their prayers and confidence in Biden’s resilience. Biden, who stepped down from the 2024 presidential race due to health concerns, has maintained a low public profile since leaving office, though he has given occasional speeches and interviews. A long-time advocate for cancer research, he relaunched the Cancer Moonshot initiative in 2022. His son Beau died of brain cancer in 2015.
USA: two Israeli embassy staff killed in Washington DC
Two Israeli embassy staff members, Sarah Lynn Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, were shot dead outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington DC. The couple, described as being 'in the prime of their lives', were leaving an event when they were attacked. A suspect, Elias Rodriguez, 30, was apprehended at the scene and reportedly shouted 'free Palestine' while being detained. Authorities are investigating potential links to terrorism and antisemitism. The killings have shocked both US and Israeli communities, and are being condemned as a brutal act of antisemitic violence. Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to increase security at diplomatic missions worldwide, while the foreign minister called the attack 'a direct result of toxic, antisemitic incitement’. The incident comes amid intensifying scrutiny of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, which has triggered widespread global criticism and deepening humanitarian concern.
Two thousand Iranians turning to Jesus every day
Over two thousand Iranians are reportedly turning to Christ each day, according to the Bible Society. Despite the severe risks in a nation where leaving Islam can carry a death sentence, underground Christianity is flourishing. One 92-year-old woman evangelises on public transport by inviting strangers to help her read the gospels: many end up taking home a New Testament. This quiet revival is not only drawing Iranians to Jesus, the Jewish Messiah, but also transforming their attitudes toward Israel and the Jewish people, long depicted as enemies by Iran’s regime. Formerly steeped in antisemitism, many new believers now intercede for Israel, praying for peace between the two nations. Amid growing persecution, the gospel is advancing, fulfilling prophetic scripture and reshaping hearts even within regions historically opposed to God’s people. This movement coincides with increased Christian engagement among British youth and raises hope amid cultural hostility. The spiritual battle is intensifying - but so too is the light of Christ in dark places.
‘I should be dead’: actor’s miracle survival
Christian actor Jesse Hutch has shared his remarkable survival story after nearly drowning during a whitewater rafting accident. While working as a guide in his college years, Hutch was pulled underwater into a powerful current known as the 'green room’. Trapped and unable to surface, he eventually blacked out after water filled his lungs. He was under water between 11 and 22 minutes, so by medical standards he should have died. Yet, miraculously, he survived with no major damage. Hutch describes the moment of surrender as filled with divine peace, saying, 'I completely surrendered … and it was the most peace I ever felt.' This life-altering experience deepened his walk with God, instilling a lasting lesson: he is not in control—God is. Following the incident, Hutch felt an unexpected call into the acting world, a path he had never pursued but now sees as part of God’s purpose. His testimony is a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and grace, even in moments when all seems lost.
‘I have no fear’, says singer with cancer
Brad Arnold, lead singer of the rock band 3 Doors Down, has publicly revealed his battle with stage-four clear cell renal carcinoma, a cancer that has metastasised to his lungs. Despite the grave diagnosis, Arnold’s response is one of unshaken faith and peace. In a heartfelt video message, he declared, 'We serve a mighty God and He can overcome anything... I have no fear.' He has cancelled his summer tour to begin treatment and humbly asked fans for prayer. Arnold has used his platform to share the Gospel boldly in concert settings, often reminding audiences that the messages of worthlessness perpetuated by society are lies. 'You are enough… because Jesus Christ loves you’, he told fans during a recent show. His testimony continues to inspire many, and his story is a compelling call to pray, believe, and speak hope in life’s darkest trials.
UK economy expands at fastest pace in a year
The UK economy grew by 0.7% in the first quarter of 2025 - its fastest quarterly growth in over a year - beating Bank of England predictions. Growth was driven by strong performance in the services sector, especially retail, IT, advertising, and car leasing. Manufacturing also saw a 1.1% rise, while construction remained flat. Compared to last year, the economy is now 1.3% larger. Export activity also surged, with a 3.5% jump as traders raced to beat looming US tariffs. Despite this strong start, economists warn the momentum may be short-lived due to domestic tax increases and international trade pressures. Some of the early-year growth appears to have been brought forward ahead of rising business costs. While consumer confidence and easing interest rates offer hope, the Bank of England believes underlying growth may still be weak. The government remains cautiously optimistic, pointing to rising wages and a stronger-than-expected recovery, yet future growth may depend on global stability and wise economic governance.
More inmates released early to stop prisons running out of space
The Government is set to release over 1,000 recalled inmates early in an effort to relieve severe overcrowding in prisons. Offenders serving one to four-year sentences who breached licence conditions, but did not reoffend, will now be released after 28 days without parole board assessment. Justice secretary Shabana Mahmood said the move, alongside a £4.7 billion prison-building plan, is necessary to prevent the system from collapsing, with England on course to run out of male prison spaces by November. Critics argue the policy puts public safety at risk. Victims’ advocates warned that the policy could endanger lives, especially where abusers are concerned. The justice ministry faces growing pressure to reform sentencing, with recommendations for expanded use of community-based alternatives expected soon. However, many argue that without stronger investment in probation, mental health services, and preventative support, early release schemes alone will not solve the crisis. See also
GPs split over assisted dying plans, says BBC
A BBC survey of over a thousand family doctors reveals sharp divisions among GPs in England over proposed assisted dying legislation. About 500 opposed the law, calling it dangerous, unethical, and a threat to patient trust. Concerns included coercion, guilt among patients feeling burdensome, and the sanctity of life. Others warned that better palliative care should be prioritised over legalising assisted death. Over half cited religious beliefs as a key reason for opposition. Conversely, around 400 GPs supported the bill, often citing personal trauma from witnessing painful deaths and arguing for dignity and patient autonomy. Supporters described the proposal as humane and overdue, with many wanting the choice for themselves or loved ones. Nearly 300 GPs would assess patient eligibility if the law passed. However, over a quarter of all respondents admitted difficulty in reliably predicting life expectancy - central to the proposed law’s safeguards. As Parliament prepares to debate the bill, questions remain over ethical boundaries, medical responsibility, and protecting the vulnerable amid calls for better end-of-life care. See
DWP crackdown to hit 150,000 PIP claimants
Major changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system are set to affect hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people across the UK. The Government’s welfare reform, due to begin in 2026, will raise the threshold for eligibility for the daily living component of PIP - a benefit that supports individuals with disabilities and their carers. Under the new system, claimants must score at least four points in one assessed activity to qualify. By 2029/30, around 800,000 people are expected to lose this benefit, with 150,000 also losing their carer’s allowance. Critics say that these reforms prioritise cost savings over care and compassion. Veteran MP Diane Abbott described the legislation as 'cruel and misconceived’, warning that it will push disabled individuals into further hardship and fear. With weekly payments of up to £110.40 at stake, the changes could leave many struggling to cope financially and emotionally. Disability campaigners and church leaders are calling for justice, dignity, and adequate provision for society’s most vulnerable.