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-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,
AmInvestment: Brent Crude to Stay Elevated
Oil prices have retreated from a high of $US118 per barrel in April to around $80 following an interim deal between the US and Iran for a ceasefire and the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Will oil prices continue to trend lower or are there constraints on supply resumption? We discuss the outlook of the O&G sector with Aimi Nasuha Mohamad Nazri,Oil & Gas and Transport Analyst at AmInve
Making Parliament Great Again
Recent debates about the quality of our legislative branch of government, have focused on the quality of written parliamentary replies. A study by the Institute of Strategic Analysis and Policy Research suggests that ministries often provide evasive answers, particularly when responding to more detailed questions from MPs. At the same time, MPs’ absenteeism from parliamentary sittings continues to
Consumers Are Spending, But More Carefully
Malaysia's consumer sector remains resilient, supported by low unemployment and steady retail sales growth. However, spending momentum is slowing as households become more cautious amid higher living costs and persistent inflation pressures. With companies facing rising costs across energy, logistics, and raw materials, investors are increasingly focused on which businesses can protect margins and
Iran-US: MOU Signed, Challenges Begin
With the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding Between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran just signed, a new set of issues will have to be resolved. The 14-point agreement is aimed at ending hostilities and allows the established a framework for further negotiations to commence. The deal signals some commitments including sanctions relief, access to frozen Iranian assets
Highland Towers: Closing A Chapter on a Tragedy
Following an approval from the Magistrate’s Court the condominium that toppled in 1993 is set to be demolished before the end of the year. This ends a tragedy that began 11 December that year, as one of the three blocks collapsed after a landslide triggered by continuous heavy rain, killing 48 people. The case is still widely cited in Malaysia’s construction and planning circles, especially when i
Behind Malaysia’s Economic Numbers
With economic growth at 4.4% in the first quarter of 2026, April industrial production rising to 8.2% year-on-year, wholesale and retail trade sales increasing to 4.7% and total trade numbers hitting a record RM3.1 trillion ringgit last year, but May's manufacturing PMI slipping into contraction territory, what can be said about the direction of the economy.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio
Did the Iran Deal Overshadow the G7?
The G7 Summit in France was intended to focus on long-term challenges such as AI governance, critical minerals, and economic resilience. Instead, attention shifted almost immediately to the surprise US-Iran peace breakthrough, which dominated discussions and reshaped the summit's agenda. While leaders still reached agreements on a range of strategic issues, the gathering raised a broader question:
Can BNPL Stay Safe as It Grows?
Buy Now, Pay Later services have become a mainstream part of consumer spending in Malaysia, prompting regulators to introduce new safeguards aimed at improving transparency, affordability checks, and consumer protection. While the industry argues that repayment rates remain strong, concerns persist over rising household debt, credit risk, and the growing role of BNPL in everyday borrowing. Will ti
Why Are Malaysia's ERs Still Overcrowded?
Emergency department overcrowding remains a chronic problem in Malaysia's public hospitals, driven by rising patient volumes, staffing shortages, and capacity constraints. The Health Ministry has now directed hospitals to develop plans to improve patient flow and reduce congestion within three months. As pressure on the healthcare system grows, what is causing these persistent bottlenecks, and wha
Is the Worst Over for the Hormuz Crisis?
Brent crude oil prices slumped on the news of an imminent ceasefire deal between the US and Iran as markets cheered the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. How soon can vessel traffic and oil supply normalise to pre-war levels? We discuss the outlook for global oil markets with Muyu Xu of Kpler.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wawasan Negara Enters the Political Arena
In Malaysian politics, one day you’re in, another day you’re out - but one can always stage a comeback, as Dato’ Hamzah Zainuddin, the MP for Larut has done. Nearly four months after he was expelled from Bersatu, he has emerged as the founder of a new party, Parti Wawasan Negara and reinstated as the Opposition Leader under Perikatan Nasional. We discuss what these developments mean for the politi
Cracks Beneath Malaysia's Resilience
Malaysia’s economy continues to attract strong investment, with both foreign and domestic capital flowing into key sectors despite a challenging global backdrop. Yet beneath the headline resilience, signs of strain are beginning to emerge, including a rise in unemployment, portfolio outflows from local financial markets, and renewed pressure on the ringgit. As investors weigh external risks agains
Trump Declares Iran Breakthrough, But Can the Peace Hold?
After more than 100 days of conflict, the United States and Iran have announced a ceasefire framework that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz and ease one of the world's most dangerous geopolitical flashpoints. While both sides have signalled progress, key issues including sanctions relief, frozen assets, regional security, and the future of Iran's nuclear programme remain unresolved. With Israel,
Inside Malaysia’s Rohingya Refugee Community
A petition calling for the removal of Rohingya refugees from Malaysia has reignited public debate over one of the country’s most complex humanitarian issues. Husson Ahmad, Founder of the Rohingya Youth Support Network, shares insights into the lived reality of this very marginalised community.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Japan-Malaysia Ties Gain Strategic Importance
As geopolitical tensions and supply chain shifts reshape the global economy, Japan and Malaysia are moving to deepen cooperation in areas such as semiconductors, AI, digital technology, critical minerals, and supply chain resilience. With Japan remaining a major investor and trading partner, the latest high-level engagements highlight a growing focus on strategic industries and long-term economic
Why Aren’t (Some) Malaysian Stocks Getting Enough Attention?
The Securities Commission has flagged a growing visibility problem among listed companies on Bursa Malaysia, with some firms lacking dedicated investor relations teams and some receiving no analyst coverage at all. Business commentator Pankaj C Kumar shares his view on the new SC initiative, the MY Value Up Guidebook aimed at improving companies' visibility.Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudi
Healthcare Moves Beyond Recovery Phase
Malaysia’s healthcare sector delivered a steady first quarter, supported by stronger patient volumes, improving case mix, and signs of recovery in the pharmaceutical segment. While medical tourism and structural demand continue to support growth, rising costs, currency volatility, and regulatory uncertainty are creating a more challenging operating environment. As the sector shifts from post-pande
How Should Malaysia Manage the Rohingya Issue?
A petition calling for the removal of Rohingya refugees from Malaysia has reignited debate over one of the country’s most complex humanitarian and policy challenges. While public concerns over resources, security, and social integration continue to grow, the government maintains that any response must balance domestic realities with humanitarian responsibilities. As pressure mounts for a more stru
Beyond Investment: What Does Malaysia Really Gain?
Malaysia continues to attract strong investment flows into sectors such as semiconductors, AI, data centres, and digital infrastructure. But as highlighted in Khazanah Nasional’s latest annual report, the bigger challenge may no longer be attracting capital, but ensuring those investments translate into stronger local capabilities, better jobs, and long-term economic growth. As Malaysia seeks to m
Data Centres : The Next Phase of Construction Growth?
Malaysia’s construction sector continues to grow, but the drivers behind the expansion are changing as data centres emerged as the key growth engine, with billions in potential contracts expected over the next two years. Jack Go, UOB Kay Hian's senior equity analyst shares his take on this and what he sees could be listed companies to pay attention to.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/l
Malaysia's Q1 FDI Data : What the Numbers Tell Us
Malaysia’s approved investments edged slightly lower in the first quarter of 2026, slipping 0.2% year-on-year, but still point to a relatively resilient pipeline with more than 50,000 potential jobs created. Professor Dr Ong Kian Ming, Adjunct Professor at Taylor's University and the former Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry, discusses these results with us.Image Credit: Shutterst
What Is Xi Signalling in North Korea?
Chinese President Xi Jinping’s first visit to North Korea in seven years comes as regional dynamics continue to shift amid closer ties between Pyongyang and Moscow. While both sides have pledged deeper cooperation across politics, trade, and technology, many of the commitments mirror previous agreements. The visit nevertheless raises important questions about Beijing’s priorities, its influence on
PAS-Bersatu : It's Complicated
PAS has ended its cooperation with Bersatu, the party it founded Perikatan Nasional with six years ago, although Bersatu's President Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin insists on keeping the coalition intact. Dr Azmil Tayeb, a political scientist at Universiti Sains Malaysia, discusses how these developments might reshape Malaysian politics as GE16 draws nearer.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/l
Is South Korea Entering a New Growth Cycle?
South Korea’s economy has posted its strongest quarterly growth in more than four years, driven by robust semiconductor exports and growing demand linked to artificial intelligence. As the country strengthens its role in the global AI supply chain, questions are emerging over whether this marks the start of a broader phase of growth, or another technology-led upswing that remains heavily dependent
Why Are More Hikers Getting Into Trouble?
Malaysia has seen a noticeable rise in hiking-related emergencies this year, with more people getting lost, injured, or requiring rescue in forests and mountain trails across the country. While outdoor recreation has grown significantly in popularity, concerns are mounting that safety awareness, preparation, and risk management may not be keeping pace. Recent incidents have also highlighted broade
Can Airlines Still Grow Profitably?
The global aviation industry continues to benefit from strong passenger demand and record revenue, but airline executives are increasingly warning that growth is becoming harder to translate into profits. Rising fuel costs, aircraft delivery delays, engine shortages, supply chain disruptions, and uncertainty around sustainable aviation fuel are all placing pressure on an industry already known for
Malaysia Property 2026 : Margin Pressures Data Centres
Malaysia's property sector enters mid-2026 with a mixed picture as revenues rose, margin pressures building up and a shift towards data centre development. Mohd Fadzerin Arrifin, an equity analyst at BIMB Securities Research, unpacks what he sees as earnings quality divergence, margin risks, and whether the sector’s “overweight” call still holds.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listene
The Battle for Negeri Sembilan, A Madani Referendum
Negeri Sembilan has dissolved its state assembly more than two years before its term was due to end, setting the stage for an unexpected snap election. Dr Lau Zhe Wei, Assistant Professor with the Department of Political Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, talks about the implications of this latest political development.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for pri
Can Malaysia Break the Politics of Patronage?
Questions about political patronage and institutional independence have resurfaced following controversy over access to constituency development funds and continued debate over political appointments to government-linked companies and statutory bodies. While supporters argue that elected governments need flexibility to allocate resources and appoint trusted individuals, critics contend that such p
Malaysia vs Indonesia : A Palm Oil Trade War?
Indonesia's latest intervention in palm oil exports is reshaping the conversation around regional competitiveness, as Malaysia's exports face mounting pressure and Jakarta seeks greater control. Hoe Lee Leng, Head of Regional Plantations at RHB Investment Bank, discusses the current situation and shares her forecast for the industry.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy
Does Malaysia's Heritage Law Go Far Enough?
More than 20 years after the National Heritage Act 2005 came into force, questions remain over whether Malaysia's cultural and historical assets are adequately protected. Elizabeth Cardosa, a cultural heritage & conservation consultant examines the effectiveness of the law, the challenges of enforcement, and what reforms may be needed to improve it.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/
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