Morning Brief
Opinion and analysis of today’s international and local news that matter to Malaysians. Everything you need to know to start and plan your work.
Episodes
Malaysia's New Refugee Registration System
Malaysia is rolling out its own refugee registration system, the Dokumen Pendaftaran Pelarian (DPP), while asking the UNHCR to temporarily suspend new registrations. Joanne Chua, Executive Director of Asylum Access Malaysia, discusses what this means for refugees and asylum seekers, and what it means for their safety and wellbeing.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy i
Trump's Tariff Push Reshapes Global Trade
The Trump administration has imposed fresh tariffs on imports from 60 economies, including Malaysia, citing concerns over forced labour enforcement under Section 301 of the US Trade Act. The move marks another expansion of Washington's trade toolkit, raising questions over its legal basis, implications for global supply chains, and the future of multilateral trade rules. How should affected econom
ASEAN Advances on South China Sea Code of Conduct
Last week the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting wrapped up in Manila, with discussions ranging from the crisis in Myanmar and the war in the Middle East to tensions in the South China Sea. With so many complex issues on the agenda, what progress was actually made? We unpack the outcomes with Thomas Daniel, Director of Foreign Policy and Security Studies, ISIS Malaysia.Image Credit: Shutterstoc
Who Pays for Malaysia's Stray Animals?
Malaysia's shelters and rescue groups are stretched thin as costs are rising, and there are too many strays around. Now the government is weighing a special fund and tax incentives to ease the burden on both rescuers and pet owners. But will money alone fix a problem this big, and where should it actually go? We speak to Associate Professor Arie Dwi Andika, President of the Malaysian Animal Associ
America's $1.15 Trillion Military Gamble
The US House has narrowly passed its version of the $1.15 trillion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), authorising the largest military budget in US history. Is Congress simply funding today's conflicts, or is it preparing for a fundamentally different security landscape? We speak with Dr Alexey Muraviev, Adjunct Associate Professor of Strategic Studies at Edith Cowan University, about what
China Just Killed Paper Gold
Starting today, China will stop offering retail paper gold and leveraged gold trading. Physical gold is untouched — but millions of retail traders now have to close their positions, sell up, or take delivery. Beijing calls it investor protection, after gold's wild swings this year caught a lot of leveraged traders off guard. We speak to Christopher Wong, Precious Metals Strategist at OCBC Bank, to
What Does Sabah’s RM1.6 Billion Supplementary Budget Say About Its Finances?
Sabah's just added RM1.6 billion to its spending for the year, with more of it going towards development and infrastructure. We talk to Dr. Saizal Pinjaman of Universiti Malaysia Sabah about what that tells us about the state's finances — and what should come first in the next budget.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Building A Better Government In The Digital Age
Malaysia has made significant strides in digitising government services, with initiatives such as MyGovApp and MyDigital ID laying the foundations for a more connected public sector. Dr Marco Larizza, Lead Public Sector Specialist at the World Bank, discusses the latest surveys outlining the strengths and weaknesses of Malaysia's approach to this.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listen
Korea’s Bid For The Won To Go Global
South Korea has unveiled a roadmap to internationalise the won — allowing foreigners unlimited won transactions through registered firms from January 2027, on the heels of extending trading to 24 hours a day. The goal: shed the barriers that have kept the world's 13th-largest economy classified as an emerging market by MSCI. But can Seoul open up its currency without inviting the volatility it has
How to Elevate Malaysia-Bangladesh Trade
Bilateral trade between Malaysia and Bangladesh stands at roughly $3 billion US dollars, but remains heavy in Malaysia's favour. Following Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's recent visit, talks of a Free Trade Agreement have gained fresh momentum. So what will it take to correct this imbalance and unlock new areas of cooperation? We discuss this with Mohammad Anwar Shahid, President of the
Can Malaysia Sustain Its Data Centre Boom?
Malaysia has become one of Southeast Asia's leading data centre destinations, attracting billions in investment as demand for cloud computing and artificial intelligence accelerates. But the industry's next phase of growth will depend on more than capital, with power, water, financing, and community acceptance emerging as critical constraints. As regional competition intensifies, what must Malaysi
Global Oil Supply in Dire Straits?
The escalating US-Iran conflict is putting global energy supplies under growing pressure, with disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea raising concerns over oil markets. How much further could crude prices rise if tensions continue to intensify? Muyu Xu, Senior Crude Oil Analyst at Kpler shares her analysis.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Burnham Takes the Helm in Britain
Andy Burnham has become Britain's seventh prime minister in a decade, taking office after an uncontested Labour leadership contest that followed Keir Starmer's resignation. He inherits a government grappling with weak poll numbers, a sluggish economy, and growing pressure from Reform UK, while promising a renewed focus on devolution and public services. Can Burnham revive Labour's fortunes and res
KWAP's eFishery Bet: Mistake or Negligence?
KWAP was one of several investors deceived by eFishery, an Indonesian start-up that was found to have inflated their financial records. KWAP lost its investment of RM163.4 million and is now being investigated by the MACC. Where's the line between acceptable investment risk and unacceptable governance failure in public investment institutions? Independent business writer P. Gunasegaram weigh
US-Iran War : Is There a Path Back to Peace?
The US-Iran war is now back in full force, after a brief lull, when a 14-point ceasefire MOU was signed. Trita Parsi, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, discusses why diplomacy broke down, whether another agreement is still possible and what the conflict means for the future balance of power in the region.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnyst
Network School Row Puts Investment in Focus
Malaysia's ambitions to position Johor as a regional investment hub have come under scrutiny after the Network School controversy prompted the company to pause its planned RM500 million investment. The episode has raised broader questions about regulatory certainty, investor confidence, and how Malaysia balances national security concerns with its efforts to attract foreign capital. What will it t
High Stakes in Negeri Sembilan Polls
Campaigning has begun for the Negeri Sembilan state elections following Nomination Day on Saturday, 18 July. We break down the trends to watch amid fluid political alliances with Adib Zalkapli of Viewfinder Global Affairs.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Strengthening KWAN for Future Generations
The Dewan Rakyat has passed a bill to overhaul legislation governing the National Trust Fund or KWAN. How far do the proposed changes go to strengthen the fund for future generations? We get reactions from Dr. Nungsari A. Radhi. Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Malaysia's Economy Defies Expectations
Malaysia's economy grew a stronger-than-expected 5.8% in the second quarter, beating forecasts as manufacturing, mining, and exports powered broad-based expansion. While the figures point to resilient domestic fundamentals, questions remain over whether this momentum can be sustained amid a slowing global economy, geopolitical uncertainty, and softer consumer activity. What will drive Malaysia's n
Term Limit Delay Raises Reform Questions
The Madani government's push to limit a prime minister's tenure to 10 years was billed as a cornerstone of its institutional reform agenda. But after the constitutional amendment failed to secure enough support in March, the promised re-tabling during the latest parliamentary sitting never materialised. As Parliament adjourns until October, questions are growing over whether the government's refor
School Violence Puts Student Mental Health Under Scrutiny
Recent violent incidents involving students have renewed concerns about whether Malaysian schools are adequately equipped to identify and support young people facing mental health challenges. While bullying, emotional distress, and behavioural issues have become more visible, schools continue to grapple with limited resources, growing demands on teachers, and uneven access to professional support.
Bank of Korea Rate Hike — Is it Chasing Its Own Economy?
The Bank of Korea has raised its policy rate to 2.75% — its first hike in three and a half years — as inflation hits a two-and-a-half-year high of 3.2%. But the real story is what's driving prices: Governor Shin says Korea's trillion-dollar AI and chip investment boom is no longer just fuelling growth, it's fuelling inflation. Ho Woei Chen, Economist and Senior Vice President at UOB Group, tells u
Melaka Rift Tests Unity Government
Melaka's Unity Government has been thrown into uncertainty after DAP withdrew from the state administration over a proposed constitutional amendment allowing appointed state assemblymen. The dispute has raised broader questions about democratic representation, state-federal political dynamics, and the cohesion of the Unity Government as UMNO seeks to consolidate its political gains. What does this
China's Two-Speed Economy: Booming Exports; Slowing GDP
China grew just 4.3% in Q2 — its weakest since 2022, even as exports surged 27% and the trade surplus hit a record. Beijing's solution to this is its first-ever five-year plan devoted entirely to consumption — but will it work where past efforts haven't? Moody's Analytics economist Sarah Tan unpacks the two-speed economy, Beijing's new consumption plan, and what it all means for Malaysia.Image Cre
Consumer Spending Faces Margin Squeeze
Malaysia's consumers have remained resilient despite a prolonged period of elevated prices, supported by a strong labour market and targeted government assistance. But businesses are facing mounting cost pressures from higher commodity prices, logistics, and operating expenses, raising questions over how long profit margins can be protected before higher costs are passed on to consumers. As the se
Malaysia Tightens Rice Supply Laws
Rice remains central to Malaysia's food security, but the sector continues to face structural challenges, from low self-sufficiency and climate risks to market disruptions and heavy import dependence. The latest amendments to the Control of Padi and Rice Act strengthen enforcement and increase penalties, but questions remain over whether regulation alone can address deeper issues in production, pr
What Changes Under the MCMC (Amendment) Bill?
The MCMC (Amendment) Bill 2026 introduces new powers for the regulator to audit licensees and activities, disclose information and increase spending limits. How far does this go in improving the effectiveness of the MCMC? We discuss these reforms with Professor Dr Joanne Lim, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Nottingham Malaysia.Image Credit: Shuttersto
Can ASEAN Weather Another Energy Shock?
The US-Iran conflict has exposed sharp differences in how ASEAN economies are coping with higher energy prices and inflation. While some countries have tightened monetary policy to defend growth and currencies, others have held rates steady despite mounting external pressures. As the region also benefits from rising AI-related investment, can ASEAN maintain its growth momentum if energy prices sur
Malaysia's Organ Donation Crisis Deepens
More than 10,000 Malaysians are currently waiting for life-saving organ transplants, yet donor numbers remain among the lowest in the region. Despite growing calls for reform, challenges ranging from family consent and public awareness to system coordination continue to limit the number of successful transplants. What changes are needed to build a more effective organ donation system and give more
Will Negeri Sembilan Turn Blue?
The landslide victory of Barisan Nasional in the Johor state election is affecting the political calculus in the country and the fragile truce holding together the Madani coalition. What clues do the Johor results tell us about the shift in voter sentiment and how might this play out in the upcoming Negeri Sembilan state polls? We discuss this with Dr. Azmi Hassan of the Nusantara Academy for Stra
Trump Puts North American Trade on Notice
The future of North America's biggest trade pact has been thrown into doubt after President Donald Trump declined to renew the USMCA in its current form, opting instead for annual reviews and pushing for tougher terms with Canada and Mexico. The move has reignited uncertainty over tariffs, automotive supply chains, and regional manufacturing at a time when businesses are already navigating a more
Malaysia-Thailand: Neighbours in Harmony?
Prime Minister Dato' Sri Anwar Ibrahim and his Thai counterpart, Anutin Charnvirakul, showcased their rapport in a musical performance during the latter's visit to Malaysia last week. What does this signal about the tenor of bilateral relations and how the two sides will navigate friction? We discuss the state of play with Dr. Phar Kim Beng, Professor of ASEAN Studies at IIUM.Image Credit: Shutter
MyCC Gets Stronger Enforcement Powers
Malaysia has approved sweeping amendments to its competition laws, giving the Malaysia Competition Commission broader powers to investigate anti-competitive conduct and strengthen enforcement. The reforms mark the biggest overhaul of the country's competition regime in more than a decade, although questions remain over merger control, whistleblower protections, and regulatory capacity. What do the
El Niño Threatens Palm Oil Outlook
The likelihood of a severe El Niño has increased sharply, raising fresh concerns over global agricultural production and commodity prices. For Malaysia's palm oil industry, the prospect of prolonged dry weather comes as producers are already facing higher input costs and shifting global demand dynamics. Could tighter supply keep crude palm oil prices elevated, and which plantation companies stand
PAS Opens the Door to BN in Johor
With Johor voters heading to the polls, attention is increasingly turning to what happens after the ballots are counted. PAS has indicated it is prepared to support Barisan Nasional if the election produces a hung assembly, raising fresh questions about the future of its relationship with UMNO and the implications for Perikatan Nasional. Is this simply post-election pragmatism, or could it reshape
US-Iran Ceasefire on the Brink
Just weeks after agreeing to a 60-day framework aimed at ending months of conflict, the United States and Iran are once again exchanging military strikes, casting serious doubt over the future of the ceasefire. Renewed attacks around the Strait of Hormuz have heightened concerns over global energy supplies, shipping, and regional stability, while markets are reassessing the risk of a prolonged con
BNM Keeps The OPR At 2.75% For Now
Bank Negara's decision to hold the OPR at 2.75%. But behind the non-event sits a genuinely unusual position: Malaysia is one of the few ASEAN economies that hasn't been forced to tighten, thanks to inflation running at a tame 1.7% while its neighbours battle price and currency pressures. We break down what's keeping Malaysia steady with Dr Afza-nizam Abdul Rashid, Chief Economist at Bank Muamalat.
Can AirBorneo Take Flight?
AirBorneo is entering a new chapter with the launch of commercial jet services, marking a major step in Sarawak's ambition to strengthen its position as a regional aviation hub. But breaking into one of Malaysia's most competitive domestic routes will require more than competitive fares, as the airline seeks to build passenger confidence, expand its network, and balance growth with operational rel
Johor Decides : What the Data Reveal About Voters
As Johor voters prepare to cast their ballots, what do the latest polls reveal about voter sentiment, party strength and the issues shaping the election? Dr Kelvin Goh, Founder and CEO of Vodus Research, helps us unpack the numbers and what they can - and cannot - tell us about the race.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
China's Pacific Missile Test Raises Regional Tensions
China's latest submarine-launched ballistic missile test into the Pacific marks another milestone in Beijing's military modernisation and has drawn concern from regional powers including the US, Japan, and Australia. As China advances towards its 2027 defence goals and strengthens its nuclear deterrent, questions are growing over whether the region is entering a new phase of strategic competition.
Ringgit at a Seven-Month Low — Rebound or More Pain Ahead?
The ringgit was Asia's worst-performing currency in June, sliding 4.5% to a seven-month low as a hawkish Fed under new chairman Kevin Warsh keeps the dollar bid. Saktiandi Supaat, Head of FX Research, Global Markets at Maybank, unpacks what the Fed's split committee means for US rates, whether Bank Negara's measures to attract FX inflows are working, and where USD/MYR heads through 2026 — with the
‘Don't Cap The Ceiling, Raise the Floor’
For many Malaysians, having medical insurance is becoming increasingly difficult as healthcare costs and premiums continue to climb. Now, the government is stepping in with a new initiative aimed at making basic medical protection more accessible and affordable. Medi-Asas, the government’s Base Medical and Health Insurance and Takaful (MHIT) plan, will enter its pilot phase in the Klang Valley by
Foreign Labour: One-Stop Centre On the Move
We are once again restructuring how foreign worker quotas are approved and managed. This follows a Cabinet decision on July 1, moving the One-Stop Centre (OSC) from the Home Ministry to the Ministry of Human Resources, with applications now processed through the eQuota module under the Foreign Workers Centralised Management System. The government says this will reduce congestion at the OSC and end
NATO: Whither The Security Alliance?
NATO leaders are gathered in Turkiye’s capital Ankara against the backdrop of an increasingly challenging global security environment. Ukraine remains a central focus, but the agenda stretches well beyond the war, with discussions expected on strengthening Europe's defence capabilities, boosting military spending, and adapting the alliance to new security threats. Leaders are also looking at the i
One QR Network to Rule Them All
Bank Negara Malaysia is phasing out proprietary QR payment networks in favour of a shared interoperable platform run by Paynet within 2 years. What does this mean in practice and how will this shape the digital payments landscape? We discuss this and trends in digital banking with Ravi Kittane of EY Consulting.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Malaysia Bets Big on TVET Reform
The Madani government is placing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) at the heart of Malaysia's industrial strategy, with new funding, a proposed National TVET Commission, and a stronger focus on high-technology industries. Yet the system remains fragmented, with hundreds of programmes administered across multiple ministries and providers. As Malaysia seeks to build a workforce
Can Vietnam Keep Its Growth Streak Alive?
Vietnam has reached a new milestone after being reclassified as an upper-middle-income economy, capping decades of rapid industrialisation and export-led growth. Despite a strong second quarter, the country is also contending with rising energy costs, a widening trade deficit, and uncertainty over US tariffs as it pursues an ambitious double-digit growth target. Can Vietnam sustain its remarkable
Human Rights: Are We Reaching Our Potential?
Malaysia continues to stand out in Southeast Asia for its relatively strong income level, with GDP per capita reaching about $11,900 US dollars in 2024.However, the Human Rights Measurement Initiative 2026 report shows a more complicated reality beneath these numbers. While quality of life rights reach 76.8%, and safety from the state scores 6.9 out of 10, empowerment remains much lower at 5.1 out
Sharing Economy: Management by Algorithm?
Malaysia's sharing economy is becoming a major source of employment. But as AI plays a growing role on the platforms used by workers in these fields, questions remain about what workers' rights should look like in this new landscape. We speak to Dr. Rachel Gong, Associate Director of Research at the Khazanah Research Institute, about how workers' rights have evolved, and the gaps that still need t
Bright Outlook for Malaysian Tech
Maybank Investment Bank has upgraded the Malaysian technology sector to Positive from Neutral, betting that strong earnings, surging AI chip demand and rising investment in data centres will drive the next leg of growth. But how durable is this cycle, who stands to benefit, and what risks lie beneath the AI boom? We explore the opportunities and trade-offs with Lucas Sim, Senior Equity Analyst, Ma
An Inside Look into Venezuela's Quake Aftermath
Venezuela is reeling after two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck within seconds of each other in the country’s north, leaving more than 2,000 people dead, thousands injured, and over 12,000 displaced. Radamés Jesús Gómez Azuaje, Venzuela's ambassador to Malaysia, gives us the latest on search-and-recovery operations in his country.To support the people of Venezuela, the Development
Can Malaysia's SMEs Stay Resilient?
Malaysia's SMEs are entering the second half of the year in a more challenging operating environment, as rising costs force businesses to prioritise efficiency over expansion. While demand has remained relatively steady, many firms are increasingly looking beyond the domestic market for growth, making exports, financing, and energy management more important than ever. As global uncertainty persist
America at 250 : Democracy, Division & Global Influence
This Fourth of July, the United States marks 250 years of independence, a milestone that invites both celebration and reflection. Dr Kathryn Robison, a lecturer in American studies at the United States Studies Centre examines what this means for a nation grappling with deep political division and a renewed debate over its global role.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privac
The Sustainability of South Korea’s AI-Fuelled Boom
South Korea’s exports surged 71% in June, the strongest growth in nearly five decades, driven by a near 200% jump in semiconductor shipments as global AI investment accelerates. Brian Arcese, a portfolio manager at Foord Asset Management, shares his insights into South Korea’s growth outlook, policy risks, and where opportunities still exist in the market.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.c
Seeing Johor's Next Chapter Through
Johor is accelerating its Economic Transformation Plan, an ambitious roadmap featuring 83 projects across eight key sectors, targeting RM167 billion in investments, RM260 billion in GDP contribution, and over 200,000 new jobs by 2030. Dr Francis Hutchinson Principal Fellow & Coordinator of the Malaysia Studies Programme at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, breaks down that this means.Image Cred
Ensuring the Robustness of Malaysia's Freedom of Information Bill
Parliament is set to debate Malaysia’s long-awaited Freedom of Information Bill, a federal level framework guaranteeing public access to government-held data. Wathshlah Naidu, Executive Director of the Centre for Independent Journalism, speaks about what she thinks MPs need to understand before the vote as well as the gaps in the draft legislation in its current form.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee
Europe's Heatwave Is Becoming an Economic Crisis
Extreme heat is no longer just an environmental challenge. It is becoming a growing economic risk across Europe. New research suggests repeated heatwaves could shave up to 7% off GDP in the continent's most exposed economies by the end of the decade, as productivity falls, healthcare costs rise, and governments face mounting fiscal pressures. Is Europe adapting quickly enough, or is climate change
Sky High Potential from Low-Altitude Economy
Malaysia is set to unveil its Low Altitude Economy Blueprint by the end of the year, marking a major step towards developing a new industry projected to be worth RM30 billion ringgit by 2030. But what will it take to safely integrate drones and other low-altitude aircraft into increasingly busy skies? For a better understanding, we speak with Dato' Captain Norazman Mahmud, CEO of the Civil Aviatio
Can ASEAN Hold the Line on Nuclear Non-Proliferation?
The fragile nuclear peace preserved since the end of World War 2 is under threat as recognized nuclear powers expand their arsenal amid geopolitical shifts. As even non-nuclear countries begin to consider their non-proliferation stance, can ASEAN maintain its nuclear free zone amid external pressures? We discuss the dynamics at play with Dr. Manpreet Sethi of the Air Power Studies, New Delhi. 
Durian Glut Sends Prices Tumbling
Malaysia's durian industry is facing a bumper harvest that has sent prices for lower-grade fruit plunging, while premium varieties such as Musang King continue to command strong export demand. The sharp divide has exposed growing questions over supply, market diversification, and the industry's long-term sustainability. Is this simply a seasonal oversupply, or a sign that Malaysia's durian market
Can Malaysia Keep Fuel Subsidies Sustainable?
Malaysia is facing a prolonged period of energy uncertainty, with the government warning that oil price and supply volatility could persist for another one to two years. As fuel costs, food prices, and subsidy pressures mount, policymakers are balancing short-term interventions with longer-term reforms, including the nationwide rollout of the Budi Diesel programme. Is this crisis accelerating much
The Philippines : Growth vs Inflation
The Philippines is facing a more difficult macroeconomic environment as the fallout from Middle East tensions continues to drive elevated global oil prices, impacting inflation in the import-dependent economy. Azril Rosli, an economist at Maybank Investment Bank, shares his insights into what we can expect for this Southeast Asian island nation.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener
Market Expectations for the Second Half of 2026
Global markets are entering the second half of 2026 under growing pressure from multiple fronts : rising geopolitical tensions, elevated energy prices, and persistent uncertainty over the direction of global interest rates. Kenny Yee, Head of Research at Rakuten Trade, shares his insights on what we can expect for the rest of the year.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for priva
Curtain Rises on Johor State Elections
Campaigning for the Johor state elections has officially begun after Nomination Day on 27 June. What did Nomination Day reveal about each coalition's strategy, and what could ultimately decide the election? We discuss the race with Adib Zalkapli, Managing Director, Viewfinder Global Affairs.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
PAC Reckoning on Medical Inflation
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has tabled a 1,999-page report examining rising medical insurance premiums and private hospital charges. With 17 recommendations now on the table for the government, will they be enough to slow down the rise in medical inflation? We discuss this with Prof. Emeritus Dato' Dr Syed Mohamed Aljunid, President of Malaysian Health Economic Association.Image Credit: Sh
Hybrid Work Becomes the New Normal
Malaysia is formalising hybrid work in the civil service, with public sector employees set to work from home two days a week from August 1. The move reflects a broader shift in workplace expectations, but also raises questions about productivity, talent retention, and whether private sector employers, particularly SMEs, can keep pace. As flexible work becomes a permanent feature of the employment
LRT3 Finally Launches .. After Numerous Delays
The LRT3 Shah Alam Line is set to begin full operations soon, adding 37km of new rail connectivity across the Klang Valley and promising major improvements. Dr Prodyut Dutt, Group Chief Operating Officer for Strategy & Development at Prasarana Malaysia Bhd talks about what commuters and expect and the big question why it took so long to complete.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/lis
Malaysia's Road Safety Overhaul : Enforcement Still Needed
Malaysia has passed major amendments to the Road Transport Act, introducing higher fines, stronger enforcement powers, and new offences such as illegal racing. Dato' Professor Dr Ahmad Farhan Sadullah, Vice Chancellor of Universiti Putra Malaysia, breaks down what these changes got right while enforcement still remains fragmented.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy in
Southeast Asia Banks Face a Tougher Second Half
Bank lending across Southeast Asia is expected to slow as weaker global trade, higher interest rates, and persistent inflation weigh on credit demand. While banks in markets such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia have remained relatively resilient, rising asset quality risks and softer loan growth are clouding the outlook. As economic conditions become more challenging, which banking systems a
US Expands AI Alliance to Challenge China
The United States is expanding its Pax Silica initiative to strengthen supply chains for semiconductors, critical minerals, and other technologies essential to AI. As more countries join the network, the initiative is increasingly viewed as part of the broader strategic competition with China rather than simply an effort to improve supply chain resilience. What does this mean for global trade, and
Malaysia Inflation Risks Contained, For Now
Malaysia's inflation rate remained relatively stable at 2 percent in May, with RHB forecasting inflation to average 2.1 percent this year. But beneath the headline numbers, producer prices have surged, raising questions about whether businesses can continue absorbing higher costs and how long inflation can remain contained. We discuss the outlook for prices, policy and the risks ahead with Barnaba
Tougher Laws for a Digital Age
Parliament has tabled the Cybercrimes Bill 2026, overhauling the nearly three-decade-old Computer Crimes Act and expanding the scope of cyber offences to include identity theft, AI-generated deepfakes and digital fraud, while imposing tougher obligations on service providers. Kenny Lam, a partner at RDS Law Partners, talks about the key provisions in the legislation as well as what it got right an
Who Prosecutes, Who Practises?
Malaysia is revisiting key parts of its legal framework, from how criminal prosecutions are conducted to how future lawyers qualify for practice. Parliament is debating a revised bill to separate the roles of Attorney-General and Public Prosecutor, a move aimed at strengthening prosecutorial independence and public confidence in the justice system. Separately, the government is studying a new Bar
Can Malaysia and Bangladesh Reset Relations?
Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's decision to make Malaysia his first official overseas destination signals an effort to deepen ties beyond the traditional focus on migrant labour. While labour mobility remains central to the relationship, recurring concerns over recruitment practices, worker welfare, and market access have strained bilateral cooperation for years. With both countries now
The Case for Share Buybacks
A recent report by Kenanga Investment Bank revealed that that 17% of Malaysian publicly listed companies have undertaken share buybacks over the last two years, while in terms of value buybacks are only 2% the size of dividends on Bursa. Why aren’t buybacks a more prevalent tool to retain investor interest? We examine the practice of share buybacks in Malaysia with Peter Kong, Head of Researc
Brexit at 10: Was It Worth It?
A decade after the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, the debate over Brexit remains as divisive as ever. While supporters point to greater sovereignty, new trade agreements, and freedom from EU rules, critics argue that economic growth, investment, and political stability have all suffered. With public opinion shifting, UK-EU relations being recalibrated, and Britain's role in the
Will MUDA's Johor Strategy Pay Off?
MUDA has decided to scale back its slate from seven seats in 2022 to just four for the upcoming 16th Johor state election. Party president Amira Aisya Abdul Aziz discusses the strategy behind this decision as well as why she is stepping aside in the Puteri Wangsa constituency and endorsing a new candidate as well as MUDA's cooperation with Parti Sosialis Malaysia.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omny
Perikatan Nasional : Fragmented But Together
Perikatan Nasional has held its supreme council meeting during which Bersatu attended despite coalition partner PAS, announced the end of their cooperation. New parties, formed from splinter groups of Bersatu were admitted to PN as well. Dr Azmi Hassan, senior fellow at Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research, helps us sift through this chaos.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener
ASEAN and Russia Push for Closer Economic Ties
ASEAN and Russia have unveiled a new cooperation roadmap through 2030, covering trade, energy, food security, and digitalisation at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty. For countries such as Malaysia, the relationship presents opportunities in energy security, investment, and alternative trade arrangements, but also raises questions about sanctions risks and balancing ties with competing
Can Malaysia Get Tougher on Vaping?
Malaysia's approach to vaping is back under scrutiny after a High Court ruling overturned the 2023 exemption that removed liquid nicotine from the Poisons List. While the government has appealed the decision, public health advocates argue the case highlights deeper concerns over youth vaping, enforcement gaps, and the balance between regulation and tax revenue. As policymakers weigh legal, health,
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