Evening Edition

Today's countdown includes:5. More details on the revamped Public Service Remuneration System, including a pay hike of more than 13%, and a minimum salary of RM2000 for civil servants.4. An application for Kelantan's Wayang Kulit to be recognised on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage.3. Terengganu considering a proposal for public caning as a punishment for offences committed under Syariah law.2. The Perlis MB being investigated by MACC for alleged abuse of power.1. Our top story: The demands emerging from the Labour Day march, for better workers' rights, among other issues.For these stories, we spoke with Eddin Khoo, founder and director of Pusaka; Nizam Bashir, syariah lawyer; Dr Azmi Hassan, Senior Fellow at the Nusantara Academy of Strategic Research; and Dr Michael Jeyakumar Devaraj, Chairperson of Parti Sosialis Malaysia.Image credit: Asyraf Rasid 90, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's countdown are:5. The Education Ministry is currently exploring solutions to reduce congestion and ultimately improve the quality of education for students in 86 high-density schools across the country.4. A suggestion to give unlicensed old folk's homes a grace period of two years to comply with regulations has come up amidst a case of abuse at an unlicensed home in Kedah. Chai Sen Tyng, Senior Research Officer from MYAgeing at UPM comments on the prevalence of the issue, and whether the suggestion can bring about improvements.3. QSR Brands Holdings, which owns and operates the KFC fast food franchise in the country, has purportedly suspended 108 outlets nationwide. Lawyer, Leow Ho Eng, shares his thoughts on what happens to affected employees.2. Bersatu activist Chegubard was charged under the Sedition Act for a Facebook post regarding the rumoured Forest City casino. Zaid Malek, Director of Lawyers For Liberty adds to the discussion.1. Our top story! A motorcyclist has been granted RM721,000 for damages to his motorcycle and injuries sustained, after his bike hit a pothole three years ago. We take a deep dive into the legalities of the case with lawyer, Salim Bashir.Image credit: koontz, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's countdown are: 5. The significance of World Dance Day, in which we have Professor Dr Joseph Gonzales, choreographer and Artistic Director of ASK Dance Company to share his hopes. 4. The underreporting from male victims when it comes to love scams. For this, we hear from industrial psychologist Victor Goh.3. Public outrage to Penang's water tariff hike. Professor Dato’ Dr Chan Ngai Weng, Honorary Professor of Environmental Management at USM shares his thoughts with us. 2. Deputy Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Fadillah Yusof suggested allowing business folk to migrate to Sarawak as they are willing to deposit RM2 million into a state-owned bank, or purchase property valued at no less than RM1.5 million.1. Our top story! Bersih questions Selangor government’s open house in Kuala Kubu Baharu.Image credit: zefart, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's countdown are: 5. A World Bank report reveals that 42% of Malaysian students failed to achieve proficiency in reading by the end of Standard 5. Chan Soon Seng, CEO of Teach For Malaysia, talks about the important role that teachers play to address this issue.4. Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim says the revised Public Service Remuneration System, or the SSPA, will be the best ever introduced. 3. The United States has officially passed legislation to ban social media platform TikTok unless it divests from its Chinese parent company, Bytedance. We asked Dr Benjamin Loh, Senior Lecturer at School of Media and Communication of Taylor's University, if this will have global implications on freedom of speech.2. The MACC has confirmed that an investigation into Mahathir’s two sons earlier this year is part of a broader probe into the former leader for corruption. Pushpan Murugiah, CEO of the Center to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4) provides commentary.1. Our top story! Analysts warn that Sabah's representatives may lose support if they're not serious about demanding 40% of the federal government’s annual net revenue, as outlined in the constitution. We discuss this in-depth with Ariff Adi Putera Anwar, Research Associate, Institute for Development Studies (Sabah).Image credit: Uwe Aranas, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. A decline in students sitting for their SPM this year has been attributed to the abolishment of UPSR and PT3 examinations.2. The Unity government has announced DAP's Pang Sock Tao as their candidate in the KKB by-elections.3. Two men who illegally possessed 50 rhinoceros horns have pleaded not guilty and opted for a court proceeding, which is Malaysia's first open trial regarding the smuggling of this animal's horns.4. An American professor who diffused pro-Israel statements in his talk in Universiti Malaya has been denounced by many Malaysians.5. Our top story! The ongoing Supermax family saga.For these stories, we heard from Shahnaz al-Sadat, chairperson of LeapEd Services; Dr Syaza Shukri, associate professor of political science from IIUM; Elizabeth John, communications manager of TRAFFIC Southeast Asia; and Bunn Nagara, Director and Senior Fellow of the BRI Caucus and Honorary Fellow at the Perak Academy.Image Credit: Franco Agustin Ercolino, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. A 10-year prison sentence has been handed out to the woman who scalded a man with Down's Syndrome.2. The Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) has called for the government to abolish 24-hour eateries due to Malaysians' health issues, especially obesity.3. According to a study by Ilham Centre, Malaysian youths are uninterested in joining political parties even though they are drawn to political matters on social media.4. UN Special Rapporteurs for human rights noted that many Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia are exploited, and urge both countries' governments to take action to curb this issue.5. And our top story today: Amnesty International's report indicates that Anwar's administration did not fulfill its commitment to reforms, citing the deficiency in seven key areas such as freedom of assembly and the death penalty.For these stories, we heard from advisor of the Malaysian Down Syndrome Association Hanizan Hussin; nutritionist content creator Lee Zhi Ling; vice president of MUDA Zaidel Baharuddin; and former Klang MP Charles Santiago.Image credit: asiandelight, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. Some questions being raised on the one-month jail sentence of an elderly man who stole essential goods from a supermarket.2. A picket happening in Perak by employees of a cement plant company.3. An outbreak of mass hysteria among 50 students at a secondary school in Negeri Sembilan.4. The collusion of two Malaysian navy helicopters in mid-air during a parade rehearsal, which killed all 10 crew members on board.5. And our top story today: Activists pushing back against the exploration project at the Langkasuka Basin, citing harm to marine biodiversity.For these stories, we heard from advocate and solicitor Andrew Khoo, the secretary general of National Union of Bank Employees; J Solomon, as well as Dr Robert Bartholomew, Medical Sociologist from the Department of Psychatric Medicine at the University of Auckland, and Climate and Energy campaigner from Greenpeace Malaysia; Hamizah Shamsudden.Image credit: Lukasz Z, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. Malaysian students opting to study locally instead of abroad due to the weakening ringgit.2. The Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari has announced that the government is prepared to send armed troops to the Middle East to ensure the safety of our students there.3. "Cari-Cari Salah", a Dangdut song addressing religious hypocrisy, was released last Friday. Its lyrics were inspired by an illustration by political cartoonist Zunar, who is also the song's lyricist.4. The passing of Hanif Omar, the longest-serving Inspector-General of Police.5. And our top story today: Blanket fuel subsidies, no longer.For these stories, we heard from Professor Tajuddin Mohd Rasdi, Education Activist and Professor of Architecture at UCSI; Ridzwan Rahmat, the principal defence analyst at Janes; Zunar, political cartoonist; and Tony Emmanuel, editor and journalist at Trustee National Press Club Malaysia.Image credit: Drotyk Roman, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. The Women's Ministry revelation that there have been a rise in reports of sexual harassment cases filed by men.2. Flea market traders in Pasar Karat being asked to move after concerns of traffic congestion and fire hazard are brought up. The traders have refused, over worries that relocating will affect their businesses.3. Mentega Terbang’s director fails in his bid to lift a gag order on him.4. NGOs have called for open court proceedings on Najib's house arrest bid, following the court decision to hold these proceedings in the chamber.5. And our top story today: The discontinuation of the Petaling Jaya Dispersal Link project.For these stories, we heard from Dr Anasuya Jegathevi Jegathesan, Dean of Psychology and Social Sciences in University of Cyberjaya; Jia-Ping Lee, Director of Pollin 8; Zikri Rahman, Research Fellow for ArtsEquator's Southeast Asian Arts Censorship Database Project; and lawyer New Sin Yew.Image credit: Say No To PJD Link, FacebookSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. Volcanic ash clouds in Mount Ruang in Indonesia have led to the cancellation of several flights from Kuala Lumpur to Sabah and Sarawak2. The passing of Tan Sri Joseph Kurup, one of the founding members of Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah.3. Local film, Maryam Pagi Ke Malam, wins two international awards at the 21st Asian Film Festival in Rome, Italy.4. A single mother in Terengganu is sentenced to whipping for khalwat.5. And our top story today: The restructuring of the Employees Provident Fund, which will see a new account called Acount 3 being formed, allowing members to withdraw at any time.For these stories, we heard from Joseph Sipalan, the Asia Correspondent to South China Morning Post; Rozana Isa, Executive Director of Sisters in Islam, as well as the folks from the film Maryam Pagi Ke Malam: Film director Badrul Hisham Ismail and executive producer, Mohamad Lutfi Hakim Mohamad Ariff.Image credit: Faizal Ramli, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. The former Federated Malay States Survey Department building, which is a heritage site in Kuala Lumpur is collapsing, yet there are no funds to refurbish it.2. According to a report done by real estate technology group Juwai IQI, millennials are the biggest renter group in 2023, followed by Gen Zs. However, baby boomers are the ones who paid the highest average rent.3. Five men who were campaigning for the boycott of McDonalds have been arrested for threatening and provoking customers in Sungai Isap, Kuantan.4. Bersatu wants Perikatan Nasional to field a Malay candidate in the Kuala Kubu Bharu by-election, saying that it would be welcomed by supporters of the party in Hulu Selangor.5. Our top story: The annual Forbes Top 50 richest Malaysians is out. We look into the implications of these people's wealth and their influence on different sectors in Malaysia.For these stories, we heard from Associate Professor Keith Tan Kay Hin from the School of Architecture at Taylor’s University; Chan Ai Cheng, Immediate Past President of the Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents (MIEA); Nazari Ismail, the chairperson of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanction (BDS) Movement; and Shazwan Mustafa Kamal, Director of Vriens & Partners.Image credit: Robert Kuok, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. The increased use of air-conditioners amidst the country's heatwave, which has led to complaints of high electricity bills.2. The discovery of tadalafil, an aphrodisiac to treat erectile dysfunction, in ginseng candies manufactured in Malaysia. The issue here is that tadalafil is only supposed to be prescribed by medical professionals.3. The issue of under-enrollment of students in more than 3000 schools in Malaysia.4. EPF introducing a third account, which allows users to contribute 10 percent of their monthly contributions, and withdraw them at anytime.5. Our top story: Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announcement that he will step down from office next month, to be succeeded by the current Deputy Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong.For these stories, we heard from Ko Chuan Zhen, the CEO of Plus Xnergy; Chong Wai Yip, a teacher in SJKC Papan in Perak; Suraya Zainudin, founder of ringgitohringgit.com; and Professor Chai Lay Ching, a researcher in food safety from Sunway University.Image credit: Wikimedia CommonsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Higher education institutions play a pivotal role in shaping the future of academia. We hear Professor Sibrandes Poppema, President of Sunway University and Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer from Times Higher Education (THE) about the complexities of globalised learning. From forging transnational partnerships, to adapting to technological innovations, we explore how Sunway University and THE is putting Malaysian education on the world map.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. Sabah's Sogindai stones potentially becoming tourist landmarks. For context, Kadazandusun tribes used these stones a century ago, to dry their headhunting trophies which is why locals believe it to be haunted. 2. The death of an elephant calf in a road accident at the Gerik-Jeli road, after it was hit by an SUV. 3. The calls for Visa-free travel between Malaysia and China to be extended. 4. 10 river basins in Sarawak are set to be transformed into hydroelectric power generation sources. 5. Our top story: Iran carried out strikes against Israeli territory in response to the suspected Israeli attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus earlier this month. For these stories, we heard from Angelica Suimin, a member of the Kadazan-dusun community; Jia Cherng, an elephant movement researcher from the Management and Ecology of Malaysian Elephants (MEME); Nigel Wong, Honorary Treasurer and Spokesperson of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA); and Peter Kallang, chairman and founding member of SAVE Rivers. Image credit: Hamara, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. The government's consideration of an e-filing system for those who want to report sexual harassment. 2. Kuala Lumpur climbing the ranks in the list of Smart Cities in the world. 3. The passing of O.J. Simpson, former NFL athlete. We looked back at his trial in 1995, where he was acquitted of murdering his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend, Ron Goldman. 4. The government’s plans on expediting facilities in the third class ward of the Hospital Kuala Lumpur. 5. Our top story: Calls from Undi 18 for the EC Chairperson to be someone who is independent, competent and reform-minded. For these stories, we heard from lawyer Goh Siu Lin; Murali Ram, Director of Arup Advisory Malaysia and Azrul Khalib, CEO of Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy. Image credit: Vicki L. Miller, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. How some people will be celebrating Raya away from home. This is coming from TikTok user @cikguding who asked people to share their reasons for not returning home. 2. A recently released annual survey by ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute has found that elites in Southeast Asia have a relatively low level of concern for the political crisis in Myanmar. 3. The issue of academic fraud, after Malaysian Academic Movement, or Gerak called for a a collective effort involving educators, university leaders, and the government to uphold academic excellence and denounce fraudulent practices. 4. Asean+3 Macroeconomic Research Office has announced that Malaysia might be on its way to becoming a high-income nation. 5. Our top story: The Ministry of Communications is looking into enacting a Music Act to ensure that the arts will have their own legislation to protect the welfare of musicians. For these stories, we heard from Debbie Stothard, founder of Altsean-Burma; Professor Zaharom Nain, exco member of Gerak and Lee Heng Guie, Executive Director of the Socio-Economic Research Centre. Image credit: Salivanchuk Semen, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. University Malaya recently released a dress code for students, which has been met with criticism from members of the Universiti Malaya Association of New Youth (UMANY).2. As Malaysia is struck by extreme temperatures, cases of heatstroke rise, claiming the lives of two and incapacitating many others. We discuss how we can handle the heat.3. Sabah's state government plans to relocate residents of Pulau Gaya to the mainland in an effort to further boost tourism to the island.4. Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul suggested tapioca as an alternative to rice as Malaysians' main diet, in light of Malaysia's rice shortage problems.5. Our top story: We discuss driving safe during the festive season, and how best to plan for travels.For these stories, we heard from Lai Yue Yi, Vice President of UMANY; Dr Teoh Aik Poey, Emergency Physician; Adi Putera Anwar, Research Associate at the Institute for Development Studies in Sabah; and Ramana K. Naidu, CEO of Famox Group of Companies.Image credit: arfa adam, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. Amazon scrapping its grab-and-go supermarket model, where customers can get an item, have it be scanned by AI sensors, and Just Walk Out. This is following reports that in actuality, 1,000 Indian workers were watching customers as they shopped, to make sure checkouts were accurate. Amazon, however, has said that their workers only validated a small amount of visits, when its AI couldn't make a determination.2. Kelantan recording nearly 600 fires in the first 3 months of this year.3. Popek Popek Senate (the cousin of Popek Popek Parlimen), our coverage of the recently concluded Dewan Negara, which approved 17 bills.4. The arrest of Umno Youth Chief Dr Akmal Saleh, who is being probed under the Sedition Act. This comes after two police reports were lodged against him for a controversial speech he made regarding KK Mart's socks.5. Our top story: Mussels found in a resort town in Port Dickson has been reported to be contaminated by dangerous biotoxins, following eight cases of food poisoning.For these stories, we heard from Ahmad Afandi, Senior Analyst from ISIS Malaysia and Ryan Chua of Pusat KOMAS.Image credit: Sundry Photography, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. A deadly 7.2-magnitude earthquake hits Taiwan, making it the country's most devastating natural disaster in 25 years.2. It's that time of the year for Raya ads that pull at our heartstrings. This year, RHB Bank delivers with a short film telling the real-life story of lawyer, Ahmad Zaharil Muhaiyar who defended a woman accused of stealing a pencil case for her son.3. The government is launching a power separation initiative of the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor which will be phased in through empirical studies in Canada, Australia and the UK.4. PKR celebrates the 25th anniversary of the party's formation, featuring clips from the Breakfast Grille's interview with PKR Vice-President, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.5. Our top story: The police's 'no report, no probe' stance comes under question.For these stories, we heard from Erin Hale, a freelance journalist based in Taiwan; Aira Azhari, Senior Manager at IDEAS; and Dr Wong Chin Huat, Professor of Political Science at Sunway University.Image credit: Ismunazif Fendy, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. Adidas banning fans from putting the number '44' on their jerseys, due to it resembling the symbol used by the Nazi's SS units during WWII.2. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's decision for government institutions to use imported white rice, to ensure local rice supply for the public. This is amidst supply shortage issues.3. Former student of MRSM Tumpat being sued RM3 million in defamation, after accusing a teacher of paedophilia.4. Tan Sri Robert Tan has pleaded not guilty to a charge of cheating the Finance Ministry to secure a RM3.9 billion contract for his company Spanco.5. Our top story: The Dewan Rakyat passes the Cyber Security Bill 2024, aimed to enhance national cybersecurity through compliance with specific measures, standards and processes in managing cybersecurity threats.For these stories, we heard from Sean Ng, co-founder, Oblique; Professor Fatimah Mohamed Arshad, research fellow at the Institute of Agricultural and Food Policy Studies of UPM; civil rights lawyer, Azira Aziz as well as Emmanuel Samarathisa, journalist and founder of The Malaysianist, and activist Ain Husniza. Image credit: thinkhubstudio, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. The possibility of Sarawak using the Cambridge syllabus assessment for Primary 6 students starting from 2026.2. The controversy surrounding the Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek appearing to reject the use of the word 'kafir' to refer to non-Muslims. 3. A third Molotov cocktail thrown at a KK Mart outlet, this time in Kuching. 4. The Prime Minister warning governmental agencies and departments that they're under close watch, following recent headlines about corruption. 5. A look ahead to the Kuala Kubu Bharu by-elections, widely seen as a bellwether for national politics, and the unity government. For these stories, we heard from Shahnaz al-Sadat, Chairperson of LeapEd Services, Associate Professor Dr Surinderpal Kaur, Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Linguistics at University Malaya, Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii, Sudhagaran Stanley, Anti-Corruption & Good Governance Consultant, and Ben Suffian from Merdeka Center. Image credit: BUTENKOV ALEKSEI, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. In a move to protect marine life, whales in the southern Pacific have been granted personhood, led by the indigenous marine conservation group, Hinemoana Halo Ocean Initiative. 2. Disputes over leadership in the Women's Aid Organisation has triggered mass resignations among Excos in protest. 3. PADU registrations reach 41% of the adult population in Selangor, with the highest ratio observed in Perlis, Kelantan, Terengganu and Negeri Sembilan. 4. The Shah Alam City Council's proposal to mobilize a volunteer task force to capture 500 stray dogs faces opposition from both activists and the general public. 5. Activists are urging a halt to construction work cutting through part of Bukit Cherakah amid a final appeal to challenge the de-gazettement of the forest reserve. For these stories, we heard from Dr Jillian Ooi, Marine Ecologist & Senior Lecturer in Universiti Malaya; Kiu Jia Yaw, Co-Deputy Chair of the Bar Council Environment & Climate Change Committee; Majidah Hashim, Executive Committee Member at the Women's Aid Organisation; Datuk Seri Mohammad Uzir Mahiddin, Chief Statistician of the Department of Statistics; and Rajesh Nagarajan, animal rights lawyer. Image credit: Craig Lambert Photography, Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. A new study that looks at whether generative AI tools are helpful for students in academia, and found that different types of students are more likely to use it than others. 2. A significant uptick in provocative content on social media, compared to last year, driven by 3R issues. 3. A rise in e-cigarette poisoning cases, with experts raising the alarm that children and teenagers are more heavily affected, partly due to accessibility and a lack of safety protocols. 4. A look once more on the advantages and possibilities (but also possible things to be wary of) with the Belt and Road Initiative, on the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China bilateral ties.5. The issues behind the Malaysian Medical Council not recognising the parallel pathway programme for cardiothoracic specialists, from the Fellow of Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in Cardiothoracic SurgeryFor these stories, we heard from Prema Ponnudurai, Head of School of Media and Communication at Taylor’s University, Mediha Mahmood, CEO of the Content Forum, Mohamad Haniki Nik Mohamed, Chief Coordinator of Certified Smoking Cessation Service Providers, Dr Farhan Rusli, Public Medicine Specialist, Angeline Tan, Researcher in the Foreign Policy and Security Studies Programme at ISIS Malaysia, and Dr Timothy Cheng, Vice Chairman, Malaysian Medical Association (SCHOMOS). Image credit: Robert Kneschke, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. Our mini Popek Popek Parlimen, where we cover updates from the Dewan Rakyat. Today's main topics: renewable energy project between UAE company Masdar and MIDA, taxes and e-invoice, and the implementation of the Malaysian Checkpoint and Border Agency (MCBA).2. Last Friday, southern Thailand witnessed multiple bombings and arson attacks by insurgents who have been in conflict with the government for decades. This incident happened 20 years after the Tak Bai Massacre, where 85 villagers from south of Thailand were killed by Thai authorities.3. AirAsia announces 22,000 fixed-fare seats for citizens who are returning to East Malaysia to celebrate Hari Raya, but not all flyers are benefitting off this initiative.4. Onion prices are expected to rise with ongoing supply issues, and the government is looking at India to import 100,000 tonnes of this vegetable ahead of the Hari Raya celebrations, as onions are a staple ingredient in many dishes.5. And today's top story: the interest in STEM studies and wages has been at a consistent low in Malaysia, which is detrimental to the growth of our country. We discuss how companies can recruit and retain engineers through higher wages and better working conditions.For these stories, we heard from Bunn Nagara, Director and Senior Fellow at the BRI Caucus for Asia-Pacific and Honorary Fellow at the Perak Academy, Luqman Zulkifli, Mohd Fauzain Izzuddin Ahmad Fauzi, and Datuk Wira Dr Ameer Ali Mydin, Managing Director of Mydin. Image credit: YP_Studio, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. Our mini Popek Popek Parlimen, where we cover updates from the Dewan Rakyat. Today, we look at the possible impact of the the SST increase, the decline in STEM interest from students as well as discussions on the low registration rate of PADU, particularly among non-Malays.2. Calls to reconsider the amendments to the citizenship law, ahead of its second reading in parliament tomorrow. Civil society groups have labelled these amendments as regressive.3. The introduction of artificial intelligence in primary schools curriculums starting in 2027.4. Suggestions to increase student quota for Indians in Matriculation.5. And today's top story: The UN Security Council has adopted a resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan.For these stories, we heard from Maalini Ramalo, director of Social Protection for the Development of Human Resources for Rural Areas, Danutcha Catriona Singh, the managing director of the SOLS Foundation. We also heard from Paniirselvam Jayarama, assistant director of the Constituency Coordination Department of APPGM-SDG and Senator Dato’ Sivaraj Chandran.Image credit: lev radin, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. Our mini Popek Popek Parlimen, where we bring you updates from parliament, including: improving internet services nationwide, the distribution of essential goods and subsidies, and the proposal of enlisting students and youths who are not enrolled in university in PLKN.2. ISIS-K launched a terrorist attack near Moscow, which has led to 137 casualties.3. Vivekananda Ashram is in jeopardy after losing its heritage status in the draft KLLP 2040, as interested parties may want to redevelop the land.4. A math teacher is being investigated by the police for sexually assaulting a secondary school student.5. And our top story! McDonald's Malaysia has withdrawn their defamation suit against BDS Malaysia, after "positive outcomes" from their mediation talks.For these stories, we heard from Julia Roknifard from the School of Politics, History and International Relations of University of Nottingham Malaysia, chairman of Save Kuala Lumpur Datuk M. Ali, and lawyer and co-chairperson of CRIB Foundation Ajeet Kaur.Image credit: MH Capture, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. The United Nations General Assembly has adopted the first global resolution on Artificial Intelligence, to encourage countries to safeguard human rights, protect personal data and monitor AI for risks2. A look ahead of tomorrow's annual Earth Hour event!3. The shifting demographic in Chinese vernacular schools, following a Chinese school in Negeri Sembilan seeing more Malay student enrollment.4. Bersih Chairperson Faisal Aziz alluding that Bersih 6.0 may happen sooner than we think.5. And our top story: The nationwide water shortage crisis!For these stories, we heard from Dr Sia Chin Chin, Senior Lecturer at the School of Law and Governance at Taylor’s University, Woon Tai Hai, advisor to the National Tech Association, Dora Hashim, Senior Communications Manager at WWF-Malaysia, Chong Wai Yip, a teacher in SJKC Papan Ipoh.Image credit: R_Tee, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many Malaysians, student loans are an essential tool for pursuing higher education, and essentially, achieveing their dreams. But many struggle to repay their loans after graduating, due to financial difficulties. In this interview, we speak to Joe Hanni Mohamad, General Manager at PTPTN, about the repayment incentives and services that PTPTN offer, designed to make the the repayment process more manageable and flexible.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. Our mini Popek Popek Parlimen, where we look at talks on hosting the Commonwealth Games, complaints on police personnel, and foundlings' citizenship. 2. Hari Raya is fast approaching and parents are worried that celebrations will be dimmed in the face of rising costs, especially when the school year just started earlier this month. We discuss how families can deal with overlapping costs. 3. The Subang Airport Regeneration Plan commences with the expansion of the city airport, which will bring with it 8000 new jobs by 2030. 4. Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim commented on the Agong's new role as the honorary commissioner chief of police due to possible legal implications that may expose the Agong to prosecution, under the Rome Statute and the International Criminal Court. 5. Our top story: We're joined by PSM's Deputy Chairperson, to discuss his thoughts on the Progressive Wage Policy - of which the pilot project is expected to launch in June this year. For these stories, we heard from founder and blogger of RinggitOhRinggit Suraya Zainuddin, head of KLIA Aeropolis Randhill Singh, and lawyer Fahri Azzat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. Our mini Popek Popek Parlimen, where we bring you updates from the Dewan Rakyat. Today's main topics: the Progressive Wage Policy, the reparation of potholes and damaged roads, and PADU registrations.2. Ipoh white coffee is ranked 10th most popular coffee in the world! We dive into the history and cultural significance of our local brew from Ipoh.3. A proposed reactivation of ferry services between Peninsular and Borneo, which may improve tourism and travels between these two parts of Malaysia.4. Police probes into a news anchor's claims of being treated rudely by two policemen, which sparks discussion on how criticism towards public authorities should be handled.5. Our top story: Malaysia's aggregated household debt reaches a whopping RM 1.53 trillion, which may severely impact consumption and the future of our economy.For these stories, we heard from food historian, Nadge Ariffin, and lawyer, Kee Shu Min. Image credit: Charlie Waradee, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. Our mini Popek Popek Parlimen, where we bring you updates from the Dewan Rakyat. Today's main topics: supply of local white rice, late salary payments and EPF contributions.2. Food wastage and single-use plastics during Ramadan: how will it affect us, and how we can decrease these practices as consumers.3. Two kopitiams in Penang going viral for imposing a RM2 fee for customers who do not order drinks.4. The impact of the amended Akta Universiti dan Kolej Universiti 1971 (AUKU) on university students.5. The Minister of Education's announcement to implement an early detection assessment for Year One students, to improve their mastery of reading, writing and counting skills.For these stories, we heard from Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, PR and communications manager at The Lost Food Project Gayathri Liew, and former president of IIUM Student Union Aliff Naif.Image credit: fuadstephan, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. Our mini Popek Popek Parlimen, where we bring you updates from the Dewan Rakyat. Today's main topics: The Kawasan Rukun Tetangga initiatives as well as plans to revert to the pre-covid school calendar.2. A ruling by the Federal Court of medical negligence, which have raised concerns of practitioners resorting to "defensive medicine".3. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek's warning that teachers and school staff will be sacked if they are found guilty of sexual harassment. This is in line with her ministry's rolling out of the Safe Schools Programme, which will see guidelines to prevent sexual harassment cases in schools.4. The Malaysian Bar's motion to challenge former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's reduced sentence.5. KK Mart faces a boycott, following their sale of socks bearing the word Allah went viral online.For these stories, we heard from Manvir Victor, Chairman of the Patient for Patients Safety Malaysia, child psychologist, Katyana Azman, and lawyer Lim Wei Jiet.Image credit: Gwoeii, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. The Russian presidential elections, and we're spotlighting a few things, including Vladimir Putin's likely win, online voting being a first for the Russians as well as political and cultural interests of Russians (and why it's significant to our region.)2. The issue of overcrowding in SK Cyberjaya, which has culminated in a relocation of students to nearby schools.3. Gua Lepak, a popular food court eatery operating within Batu Caves, being given an eviction notice. Apparently, they have been operating without legal authorisation.4. Eight districts in Sabah have been identified to have hardcore poverty rates exceeding the national average.5. And today's top story: The extreme climate situation in Sabah and Sarawak. For these stories, we heard from Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim, Chairperson, Parent Action Group for Education, Dr Lim Teck Wyn, Adjunct Professor of Ecology at University of Nottingham Malaysia and also Kapayan Assemblyperson, Jannie Lasimbang. Image credit: szefei, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. Parliamentary updates, in which the MPs discussed the sale of dates from Israel, hardcore poverty and what it means to "eradicate" it as well as the issue of individuals smoking in prohibited public areas. 2. The Education Ministry's announcement of an initiative to improve students' mastery of Bahasa Malaysia by reading Malay newspapers. 3. Updates from the government on how they plan on helping individuals in the transport and film industry to contribute to Socso. 4. The hot weather in Malaysia, and in tangent, Papar being declared a drought disaster area, as it faces water supply issues. 5. The United States passes a bill that could see TikTok being banned in the States.For these stories, we heard from Associate Professor Dr Adelina Asmawi, Department of Language and Literacy Education of Universiti Malaya and Mohamad Haron Othman, Head of Self Employment Social Security Scheme Division at PERKESO. Image credit: salarko, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. Our Mini Popek Popek Parliament, looking at the Parliamentary Services Act, Kampung Baru's development plan, and protecting our children on social media. 2. Concerns surrounding vegetable price hikes due to a production decline in the agriculture sector. This is brought on by the lack of foreign labour, after the government announced that the unused foreign labour quota will be cancelled 3. Vendors at the bazaars being forced to hike up their prices due to the increase cost of raw goods. 4. Mavcom's announcement of a revised passenger service charge, for both domestic and international flights. 5. And our top story: PM Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's trip to Germany. What does this spell for the future of Malaysia in terms of investment? For these stories, we heard from co-founder of Agridata Portal and owner of D&H Plantation Shahrizal Denci, nasi ayam goreng kunyit food vendor Khairul Azhar, founder of Pear Anderson Hannah Pearson, and former Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry Ong Kian Ming. Image credit: Anwar Ibrahim, FacebookSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. Our updates from Dewan Rakyat, where we discuss issues with overcrowding in immigration depots, the Media Accreditation Card, and adaptation measures for climate change.2. A Mother’s Day photo of British Royal Kate Middleton breaks the internet amidst rumours of her absence from the public eye.3. Sugar in the workplace? No more! The government is calling for a nationwide campaign against sugar to battle high rates of diabetes, specifically among the working force.4. CTOS files an appeal after being sued for defamation due to an inaccurate credit rating, which brings into question whether CTOS can provide credit ratings which affect the livelihood of citizens.5. And our top story: the highly contested citizenship amendment, and what it will entail for Malaysian mothers, their children, and foundlings.For these stories, we heard from public health medicine specialist Dr Anza Elias, Director of Wealth Vantage Advisory Idham Idris, Intellectual Property and Information Technology lawyer Foong Cheng Leong, and President of Family Frontiers Suri Kempe.Image credit: The Prince of Wales, Kensington Palace Official XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. A mini sampler of today's parliament session, which involves discussion on foreign workers "causing unnecessary competition among locals", medicine prices as well as an outlook on our tourism this year.2. An overview of the Women's March that happened during the weekend, which has culminated in the organisers being summoned by the police, over conduct during the march. For this, we heard from Ruhaishah Zulkifli, Communications & Media Officer at KRYSS.3. The Oscar results are out, and so we bring back the Popcorn Culture gang to talk about the biggest snub and surprises.4. The government's announcement of shorter working hours for female civil servants, to allow for more family time (which has received quite a bit of pushback online).5. And for our top story, the Perikatan Nasional convention, and their desire to bring on more non-Malay votes.Image credit: Oppenheimer, Official XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are:1. A theory that sexist textbooks are contributing to the gender gap.2. The Kelantan state assembly's reintroduction of 16 provisions to the state's Syariah Criminal Court, freshly after they were struck down by the Federal Court.3. Goodyear's closure of its Shah Alam factory: what does it indicate about our economy?4. Remembering MH370, 10 years on.5. A discussion of women's issues and rights in Southeast Asia, in conjunction with International Women's Day.For these stories, we heard from Professor M Niaz Asadullah, lawyer Fahri Azzat, Dr. Shankaran Nambiar from MIER, independent investigator Blaine Gibson, and Misun Woo of APWLD.Image credit: mentatdgt, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. Our parliament update, and today's include an announcement on the new inclusive bumiputera plan, upgrades on our public transportation as well as a discussion on Menu Rahmah for bazaars.2. The Auditor General's office report on the financial statements of the federal agencies.3. Progress on the MA63, with nine demands resolved.4. Selat Klang assemblyman Abdul Rashid Asari from Bersatu saying he was backing Selangor Menteri Besar Dato Seri Amirudin Shari. What does this mean for Bersatu?5. Our top story! The Swifty Power, and how Malaysia can become a destination for music events and festivals.For these stories, we heard from Alissa Rode, Research Manager for Public Finance Unit, IDEAS, Dr. Oh Ei Sun, principal adviser at the Pacific Research Center of Malaysia and Shazwan Mustafa Kamal, Director of Vriens & Partners.Image credit: Brian Friedman, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. Some updates from the Dewan Rakyat, including discussions on Sabah's water issues, the when's and the what's surrounding the tabling of the Social Work Profession Bill and criticisms on the government's non-pensionable permanent employment scheme.2. The waters around the Mersing Islands being gazetted to protect our sea cows.3. Calls to pause changes to our citizenship act by former Former Deputy Minister of Law and Institutional Reform, Ramkarpal Singh, who said the amendments to the act are illogical and unreasonable.4. A report by Human Rights Watch that promises made to reform policies for migrants and refugees have not been fulfilled.5. And our top story, the bilateral relations between Malaysia and Australia, following the Prime Minister's visit to Melbourne.For these stories, we heard from Jillian Ooi, Azira Aziz as well as HRW researcher Shayna Bauchner.Image credit: Anwar Ibrahim, FacebookSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's top 5 stories are: 1. A bite-sized version of Popek Popek Parlimen, which included discussions to bolster our TVET programs and a suggestion to implement a special salary scheme for graduates. 2. The proposal for home detentions to reduce prison overcrowding, and the ensuing comments about former Prime Minister Najib Razak being "let off the hook." 3. The derogatory use of "Orang Ulu" in Parliament. Then, we talk about MPs in parliament using "Orang Ulu" in a derogatory way. 4. Shortened media card validity for online journalists5. Toh Puan Naimah Khalid arguing that the provision used to charge her for asset declaration with MACC was invalid. For these stories, we heard from Thomas Fann of Projek SAMA, Haresh Deol from Twentytwo13, and Dato' Vignesh Kumar.Image credit: Sebastian Duda, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We take a look at today's top 5 stories, beginning with Popek Popek Parliament where we recount issues such as OKUs in the public sector, humanitarian aid and online scams. Following close up is the ongoing boycott on Starbucks, as well as the permit issue faced by the Women's March Malaysia. Our top two picks are EPF's announcements on dividends and statistics on people who are covered by this retirement scheme, and the Bumiputera Economic Congress. Image credit: Anwar Ibrahim, FacebookSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah expressed disappointment with PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang's remarks on the monarchy after the Federal Court struck down several provisions in a Kelantan shariah criminal enactment. In his post, Hadi claims the Constitution has colonial roots meant to weaken Islam. We speak to Azmil Mohd Tayeb about the complex relationship between Islamist politics and the Malaysian Constitution. Image Credit: zmpixes, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's sitting of parliament, the Ministry of Health explained the of the Madani Medical Scheme due to financial constraints. The Minister of Finance II Datuk Seri also spoke about the reason behind the declining ringgit, and shared the ways we could potentially recover by this year. Image Credit: Shutterstock, Laboo StudioSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wendy's has announced that they are going to be implementing surge pricing in selected locations next year, which has predictably prompted outcry and accusations of predatory pricing. We discuss how this differs from surge pricing in transportation and cinemas, and whether this might be the way of the future.Image Credit: Ralf Liebhold, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the second day of the Parliamentary sitting, the agenda included labour shortages afflicting the palm oil industry, avoiding presumptions on the impact of abolishing the government servant pension scheme, as well as the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security's efforts to develop home-grown shallots. Then, we get into the chaos that ensued after Tasek Gelugor MP, Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan's claimed that shady individuals are bribing him to publicly state his support for the Prime Minister.Image Credit: The StarSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A tweet by @mysteriouskats poses the question: Can an online relationship forged on social media be as meaningful and rich, as the friendships we make in real life? We discuss it from the perspective of shared interests and intellectual connections, and hear from listeners about how they feel! Image Credit: Geralt, PixabaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parliament is back in session, with this sitting set to last all the way until 27th of March 2024. The MPs discussed a bunch of topics, including cost of living issues and how the National Action Council on Cost of Living will help with that, online scams as well as the ruling by the Federal Court that nullified 16 provisions under the Kelantan Syariah Criminal Code Enactment. Toward the end, exciting things happen: A walkout staged by the opposition bloc, as well as Pendang MP being suspended from the Dewan Rakyat, by the speaker.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bak Kut Teh, along with 9 other dishes, including nasi ambeng, kuih lapis, mee kolok and burasak, has recently been declared a national heritage object. We discuss what it means to have dishes that tell the story of our country, and its heritage - and why claiming a dish as ours will always be a little tricky (and maybe even a little close-minded).Image: bonchan, ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Electoral watchdog Bersih has announced a rally in front of Parliament, to pressure the government into carrying out political reforms. We speak to Faisal Aziz, chairperson of Bersih on what the group is calling for, and what they're hoping to get out of this protest. Note: In this interview, our guest referenced Lim Guan Eng's 2018 corruption trial resulting in a DNAA. In fact, the charges at the time were dropped.Image Credit: Bersih Official See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.