#MorningBrief: Top 5 news (29 Dec)

HERE is the list of key news you need to know today.

Land clearing can have adverse effect on environment - PEKA

Deforestation at the Hulu Teranum Forest reserve here, carried out by a government agency for the past 10 months, can adversely affect the environment and surrounding population.

Association for the Protection of Natural Heritage of Malaysia (PEKA) president Puan Sri Shariffa Sabrina Syed Akil said the land clearing which involves 145.9 of the forest reserve, which is more than 500 metres above sea level, raises some 'questions'.

The land clearing is said to be for a rubber tree planting project for the the Orang Asli community in Sungai Delam of Mukim Tras.

Religious tolerance is the pillar of racial harmony - Ahmad Zahid

Religious tolerance is the pillar of racial harmony that must be protected by the people of the country, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Ahmad Zahid said it was the responsibility of every citizen of the country to maintain the harmonious relations being enjoyed by the people.

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EPF savings: Best investment for medical needs during old age

Living life with good health is the best investment for retirement, especially during old age.

Therefore, for continuous good health, there should be proper planning since young, especially in terms of finance, to ensure one is capable of paying for the necessary medical expenses during old age.

Syrian war 'cancer on a global scale', says incoming UN chief

The Syrian conflict "has become a cancer on a global scale", incoming UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has said, while hoping Washington and Moscow overcome their differences to help end the crisis.

The war has caused "not only the suffering of the Syrian people" but also sparks "violent reactions which in some cases lead to terrorist acts", the former Portuguese premier told Portugal's SIC television channel in an interview broadcast Wednesday.

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Twitter unveils 360-degree live video

Twitter on Wednesday began streaming 360-degree video, allowing users to interact and get behind the scenes of live broadcasts.

"Starting today, you can check out live, interactive 360 videos from interesting broadcasters and explore what's happening with them," Twitter's Alessandro Sabatelli said in a blog post.

"You'll be able to get an inside look with well-known personalities and go behind the scenes at exclusive events."

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