Evening Edition

The Pakatan-Barisan coalition has won both the Pulai and Simpang Jeram by-elections in Johor. We take a look at the significance of these results and what the victory means for the unity government.Image: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever been curious about the possibility of taking a psychology course through online learning? Whether you’re juggling a busy work schedule or seeking a flexible education experience, virtual classrooms might just be the right option for you. We speak to Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Tajudin Mohamad Ninggal, vice president of Open University Malaysia, on how online education is reshaping the way we learn psychology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Curator Jo-Lene Ong's recent project, which focused on the role of British PR and information campaigns during the Malayan Emergency, was inspired by her desire to unearth her own family's history during the period. We speak to her about the project, the value of personal histories in telling the different stories of a nation, and why access to these stories is important. We also asked our listeners for their own experiences in researching their family history.Image Credit: ongjolene / InstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An X user has shared how some billboards along the road might terrorise citizens at night (ahem, a giant glowing poster of "The Nun 2")! We talk about when billboards cross the line into being distracting, and why sometimes, less might be more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Results of applications to study in public universities was released today, 7th September. As successful applicants make their decision on whether to accept or reject the offers, or choose something completely different, we're wondering: How did you decide what to study? What influenced that decision? We get into it with Ida Thien, co-founder of Closing The Gap.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rapid KL has announced that they will soon have Women’s Coaches on the MRT Kajang Line. The reception to this announcement has been controversial, to say the least. We get into it.Image Credit: XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ArtsEquator, a online platform that champions Southeast Asian arts and culture, has been carrying out a wide-ranging study on arts censorship called the Southeast Asian Arts Censorship Database. The project includes researchers from six countries: Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. We discuss what the project aims to do, and what it tell us about arts censorship in the region, with Kathy Rowland, co-founder of ArtsEquator as well as Zikri Rahman, the Malaysian researcher for the project.Image Credit: ArtsEquatorSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A discussion has emerged on X, about what is a dealbreaker when considering a new job, with people chiming in to talk about being underpaid, overworked, or about toxic work environments. We discuss.Image: PexelsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ministry of Higher Education has proposed guidelines on entertainment such as concerts, for higher education institutions. The Universiti Malaya Association of New Youth (UMANY) are challenging this with a judicial review, saying that such guidelines go against the values of freedom and autonomy that universities should uphold. We speak to UMANY's vice-president about their stand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On September 1, 2023, Malaysia Airlines ended their 26-year partnership with Brahim's Food Service, causing flight delays as the airline attempts to sort out their in-flight catering. Following this, the airline announced that they will now allow passengers to bring their own meals on selected flights. So we ask, what would you bring to eat on a flight?Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's bid for a full acquittal in his Yayasan Akalbudi trial has been declined by the High Court. The discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) means he may still face trial for the same charges in the future if the prosecution decides to reinstate them. We talk about the significance of this decision and how it will be viewed in the public's eye.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We continue our new series, BFM's Clean Cut, where we invite comedians to come to the station and perform a set in front of the BFM staff, we record it, and air it just for you! The challenge, though, is for them to perform a set that would be playable on air, and not get us or them in trouble. Comedian Kavin Jay joins us for this episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A discussion has emerged from X, about salary discrepancies and how it affects the way we hang out with friends or our friendships in general. So where do you stand when it comes to accommodating your friends? Do you offer to pay for their meal, or spend time in less inexpensive ways? We get into it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore held its first contested presidential election in more than a decade on the 1st of September 2023. Observers have said that the result of this election would be an indicator of support for the People's Action Party ahead of the general election. This is also following on a series of recent scandals including a corruption probe into the transport minister, and the resignation of two PAP legislators over an affair. So we get into all of this with Sudhir Vadaketh, editor in chief of Jom Media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A discussion on tapir diplomacy has emerged from X, following the news of the two panda cubs from Zoo Negara, Yi Yi and Sheng Yi, being sent back to China. Which led to the idea: why not loan out (the equally cute) Malayan Tapirs to zoos globally in the same way. So we talk about this idea, and the notion of animal diplomacy.Image Credit: 123rf.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Kembara Stories and Food Trail Project aims to give people a new lens through which to experience Kuala Lumpur: a walking tour led by migrants, who take you through the city's neighbourhoods and cultural gems. Perhaps most exciting, during the tour, participants get to experience the culinary traditions of these migrant communities. We check in with the people behind this project. To check them out and see how you can participate, you can visit https://projectfuturemalaysia.com/Image Credit: kembarastories/ InstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Back in school, whether you were the teacher's pet, the one who was always dozing off in class, or the one who scored consistent good grades, apparently everyone was famous (or infamous!) for something! We discuss those glory days.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has announced plans to promote traditional longhouses as homestays - specifically Sibu and Kapit longhouses. We look into how a concerted state government effort for this might mean, how it might help the communities involved, and how it would bolster tourism in Sarawak.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More specifically, what can you do, within a 10-minute walking distance from your house? That's the question we're asking today, after an X user brought up walkable urbanism, and essentially how it's made their life more fulfilling. We discuss the issue with our listeners.Image Credit: 123rf.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has announced that they will be focusing on four dimensions of food security as defined by the Food and Agriculture Organisation, specifically: availability, access, utilisation, and, stability and sustainability. So we discuss these focus areas and how they could be applied to the Malaysian context, as well as what else needs to be done to bolster our food security.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An X user shared that she and her friends discuss how much they earn, as a way to gain insight into their careers and how to negotiate for a fair salary - which led us to ask, do you discuss what you make with your friends? This opened a discussion on what is often viewed as a sensitive subject, with listeners both in support of this sort of openness, and also pointing out why it might be uncomfortable or problematic.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Starting August 24, 2023, Japan is releasing treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. Despite assurances of safety from the Japan government as well as the International Atomic Energy Agency, some countries, including China have expressed criticism and put in place bans on Japanese seafood. We speak with Nigel Marks, associate professor of physics at Curtin University, Australia, to understand the science behind this move by Japan, and whether the safety concerns are warranted.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An X user recommends that restaurant owners gather honest feedback about their food or services. We talk about giving honest feedback to restaurants and how far we'd be willing to take it.Image Credit: 123rf.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Aug 23, 2023, Chandrayaan-3 landed on the South Pole of the Moon, making India the first nation to mark this achievement - as well as being only the fourth country to have a successful lunar mission. We talk about the significance of this, what the scientific potentials of it are, and how India managed it on a shoestring budget.Image Credit: ISRO / AFP PICSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kids do say the darndest things, don't they? But where do we draw the line? We're talking about this because the term "sebab boleh" (translation: because I can) has gone viral, and now a lot of Malaysian students are using the cheeky retort with their teachers or even to answer test papers. We talk about the trend, and other annoying kid phrases we've used.Image Credit: TiktokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A reported raid on indie bookstore Toko Buku Rakyat, resulted in the confiscation of two books, supposedly under the Printing Press and Publications Act 1984 - although the Home Minister has since said it is inaccurate to call this a raid, and that the books had been "taken" to be reviewed. Notably, neither of the books are on the banned books list. The incident has drawn a lot of criticism for what is being seen as heavy-handed response from the government; we discuss the legalities of what happened.Image Credit: Benz Ali/ FacebookSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An X user asks, how many hours do you have to yourself between getting home from work and falling asleep? We discuss this question, lament about how little time (and sleep!) most of us have, and why so many might resort to revenge procrastination.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A study of online behaviour during the recent state elections provided interesting insight into how both the Pakatan-Barisan and Perikatan coalitions used cybertroopers to sway voters. We discuss the findings and what they might say about how online conversations are shaping our political landscape - and more crucially, who people might vote for.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The idea of whether married couples should share a bank account has led to a rather robust discussion online. Our listeners weigh in on financial independence, questions of trust, and whether insisting on separate accounts indicates something negative. We explore the different arguments.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Now that the elections are behind us, it's time for the government to get to work! At least, that's what we're hoping for. Mary Magdaline Pereira, executive committee member at Aliran, joins us to talk about their call for the federal and state government to focus on the People's Agenda. We get into what that means, and what the priorities should be.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A private aircraft carrying six passengers and two flight crew crashed in the Elmina township in Shah Alam on August 17, 2023, and claimed 10 lives, including two road users. We speak with an aviation expert to unpack the details and possible explanations for the tragedy, as well as the potential outcomes of the ongoing crash investigation.Image Credit: BernamaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First there was radio, next there were podcasts... what's next? With the rise of new platforms and digital innovations like AI, what transformations should we take into account when creating engaging audio content? James Cridland, editor of the Australia-based Podnews, joins us for the conversation.Image Credit: PexelsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An X user suggested that office politics might actually be necessary to make it in the workplace. We discuss the responses and whether there is such a thing "good" office politicking vs. bad.Image Credit: PexelsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A video went viral, showing members of the public rushing into a house and rescuing a child who had allegedly been abused by his mother and companion. The two of them have since been arrested, but it highlights the role neighbours or bystanders can play in aiding victims. We ask our listeners whether they would intervene in situations like this.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An X user asks, do we credit our achievements to effort, or luck and privilege? We discuss this tricky question, and open up the conversation to our listeners.Image Credit: PexelsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The state elections saw Selangor losing the two-thirds majority, as well as former menteri besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali winning in Hulu Kelang. Former PKR vice-president, Tian Chua, joins us to talk about what these results mean for Selangor, especially now that the Pakatan-Barisan coalition will face a stronger opposition in the state assembly.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The state elections are done and dusted, but remnants of the campaign still remain on our streets - this includes campaign materials like flags, banners, billboards, posters, flyers, as well as party merchandise. We discuss what needs to be done to ensure smooth post-election clean ups, and how campaigning can be greener.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Home Ministry officially gazetted a ban on any publication related to the LGBTQ+ Swatch watches of any collection and all associated material, effective August 10, 2023. We look into the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984, the rationale for the ruling, and the possible precedence it sets.Image Credit: SwatchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Polling day is (almost) upon us! Tomorrow, people from six states including Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu, and Penang are going to head off to cast their votes. So we ask our listeners how they're feeling, and what their plans are for the day.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is exactly the argument that one X user is making, saying they find people with F&B experiences are more resilient. We talk about the value of listing jobs from retail or F&B in your resume.Image Credit: 123rf.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The long awaited debate between Economic Minister Rafizi Ramli and Bachok MP Syahir Sulaiman has finally happened! And Malaysians have a lot to say about it. We get into the reactions.Image Credit: Syahir Sulaiman/ TwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Days before the state elections. a social media firestorm erupted over a workout video posted by MUDA's candidate for Bukit Gasing, VKK Raja - because his caption for it was seen as fat-shaming his opponent, incumbent Rajiv Rishyakaran. We discuss what happened and how it seems at odds for MUDA's call for "politik baru".Image Credit: Rajiv Rishyakaran/ Twitter, VKK Raja/ TwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A ginger cat named Oyen officially joined Zoo Negara's capybara exhibit on June 2023, and this has been a major draw for visitors ever since. We talk about why Oyen has managed to capture so many hearts, and the popularity of unlikely animal friendships on social media. Image Credit: BernamaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Female candidates only make up 12% of the candidates running in the upcoming state election, i.e 71 out of 570; woefully far from the recommended 30% quote for representation. We look at what these numbers indicate about our political parties and their commitment to gender parity, and whether there should be a quota in place for female candidates.Image Credit: Sivaranjani Manickam/ Facebook, Michelle Ng/ Facebook, Melanie Ting/ TwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The world of bread is divided into those who enjoy the crust, and those who prefer it crustless. An image of "White Toast Peeled Bread" - essentially sliced bread without crust - being sold in a local supermarket has ignited a fierce debate on social media between the pro- and anti-crust factions. So which side of the bread (slice) do you land on? We get into it.Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The upcoming polls may be for the six states, but Perikatan Nasional has been framing the state elections as a referendum on the federal government - for instance, PN chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has said that a victory for PN candidates would send a clear message of disapproval toward the governing coalition. So we unpack how this is playing out on the ground, and how much sentiments around the unity government might impact state votes.Image Credit: Zahid Hamidi/ FacebookSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

August 6, 2023 was the 78th anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing. We mark the seminal, tragic moment in history by speaking with Aaron Denison, a doctoral candidate at Hiroshima University, who specialises in Malaysian and Japanese politics with a special interest in Malaysian victims of the bombing. He speaks to us about how Japan commemorates this event and how the country's history impacts conversations around nuclear disarmament. He also shares his own research into the three Malaysians who were in Hiroshima during the blast.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The environment and climate change have increasingly become important issues for politicians to attend, and in the lead up to the state elections, we're seeing different approaches to the green agenda. We speak with two politicians who have made the environment the main focus of their campaign; Abe Lim, MUDA's Bandar Utama candidate, and Abdul Razak Ismail, from the Green Party, talk about why standing up for the environment is important, and how they plan to walk the talk when it comes to policies.Image Credit: 123rf.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A bear has been accused of... not being a real bear! A video of a Malayan sun bear at the Hangzhou Zoo in China is circulating online, showing the bear standing upright and interacting with visitors, raising her paws as if waving to visitors. This has caused people to suggest that this bear is actually a human in disguise. We debunk this bear-y odd story.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you're a working adult, the thought of pursuing a higher education might sound scary. So is there a way for one to have both a career and also study part time? And thrive in both areas, without compromising the other. We speak to Prof Dr Ahmad Izanee Awang, the President and Vice Chancellor of Open University Malaysia, on the benefits of online learning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.