Morning Brief

More funds are expected to flow into Asian equities if US interest rates continue to decline and the de-dollarisation trend persists. Michael Chang, Head of Investments at Eastspring Investments Bhd, says he favours the technology and industrial sectors in North Asian markets, adding that corporate earnings in China are beginning to show signs of stabilisation.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia has made major strides in digital infrastructure, data governance, and institutional coordination as guided by the Public Sector Digitalisation Strategic Plan (PSDSP) 2021–2025. Ayesha Khurshid,  Public Sector Specialist for the World Bank tells us if our  digital capabilities have started translating into real economic payoffs.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Incentives for Budget 2025 introduced several incentives for homebuyers, including first-time owners, and similar measures could be on the way, says Jamie Tan, Managing Director of JLL Malaysia. With housing affordability still a key concern, he notes that additional incentives may also be needed to offset the impact of the expanded SST on developers, landlords, and ultimately, buyers and tenants.Brought to you by Mah Sing. Reinvent Spaces. Enhance Life. Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The tech sector has been the main engine of recent U.S. growth, but a downturn could quickly rattle markets as tech stocks now account for around 40% of the S&P 500. Adam Slater, Lead Economist at Oxford Economics, explains how severely U.S. growth could be hit if the tech sector falters and whether the impact could rival the 2000 dot-com crash.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysian football has fallen to a new low after the FAM and seven foreign-born players were rapped by FIFA for forged documentation. What are the legal consequences that could ensue? We discuss accountability measures with sports lawyer Richard Wee.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

All eyes are on tourism as Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026. Nigel Wong, President of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), outlines the key support measures the industry hopes to see in Budget 2026 to attract more high-value and repeat visitors.Brought to you by Mah Sing. Reinvent Spaces. Enhance Life.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Saturday, residents of Bukit Damansara gathered to protest a proposed plan to redevelop Wisma Damansara into two 60-storey towers. We ask  podcaster and former Health Minister, Khairy Jamaluddin as to why residents object, what are the next steps forward and how can all KLites be protected from overdevelopment.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore’s three major banks turned in a mixed set of results for the second quarter of 2025, reflecting resilience in some areas but also pressure from narrowing interest margins and global uncertainty.  Sarah Jane Mahmud, Senior Industry Analyst, Bloomberg Intelligence tells us what to expect in this tougher operating environment and which bank will do better.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 16th Sabah state assembly has been dissolved, setting the stage for state elections within 60 days. This will be a crucial test for Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and his embattled GRS coalition. Political analyst Dr James Chin from the University of Tasmania shares his analysis of what’s at play.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sanae Takaichi is poised to become Japan’s first female prime minister. However, William Pesek, columnist at Nikkei Asia, says she is unlikely to champion women’s rights or push for greater gender equality. Her biggest challenges may instead come on the diplomatic front if she seeks to renegotiate trade deals with the US.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budget 2026 for the transport sector should prioritise improving existing infrastructure rather than building more, says Transport Consultant Wan Agyl Wan Hassan. He highlights three key initiatives he hopes to see included in the Budget: a National Bus Priority Programme, the establishment of a Road Safety Fund, and the smooth implementation of the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link between Johor and Singapore. Brought to you by Mah Sing. Reinvent Spaces. Enhance LifeImage Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The GRS ruling coalition in Sabah is facing turbulence ahead of the state elections, with the exit of two member parties, STAR and SAPP last week, on top of the ongoing controversy of the Sabah mining scandal. How will this shape the dynamics of the state polls? We discuss the scenarios with Jo-Anna Henley Rampas of UNIMAS.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) marks its 58th anniversary, the question remains whether it has truly lived up to its mandate of combating corruption and abuse of power. Raymon Ram, President of Transparency International Malaysia, weighs in on the commission’s achievements and shortcomingsImage Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US State Department’s 2025 Trafficking in Persons Report, has kept Malaysia at Tier 2. Criminologist Dr Haezreena Begum Abdul Hamid of Universiti Malaya discusses the progress that's been made, where the gaps are and what reforms might be needed for for Malaysia to reach Tier 1 - and sustain it?Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following the Court of Appeal’s landmark decision in the Iris Corp case, the role and accountability of company directors are once again in the spotlight. Dr Ismet Yusoff, CEO of the Minority Shareholders Watch Group (MSWG), talks about what this means for directors in Malaysia and the reforms needed to strengthen governance while still attracting capable leaders to serve.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump came into office vowing to reduce the cost of prescription drugs for the American consumer. But will that relief come at the expense of pharmaceutical balance sheets? We discuss the implications of US policy for pharma companies with Sam Fazeli of Bloomberg Intelligence.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Malaysiakini investigation has uncovered a network of Facebook accounts allegedly used to artificially boost support for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. We speak with Digital Political Communications Consultant Tai Zee Kin about how this kind of coordinated manipulation can shape public opinion. Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The governments of Indonesia and Thailand have recently unveiled stimulus measures to boost consumer spending and investor sentiment, at a time when both countries are experiencing social and political unease. How much impact might these initiatives have on economic growth? We get economist Krystal Tan of ANZ Bank to weigh in.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Veerinderjeet Singh, Senior Advisor on Tax Policy at KPMG, explains the shadow or underground economy and how the government can tackle tax leakages arising from itImage Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gold has surged past $3,800 US dollars per ounce, breaking record as investors rush to secure safe havens. But how long can this rally last? For insights on what’s driving the momentum, we speak with Christopher Wong, FX Strategist at OCBC.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will Hamas Accept the Latest Peace Plan?The White House has unveiled a 20-point plan to end the Gaza war, from a ceasefire to the release of hostages. But is this proposal truly feasible? We delve into the details with Dr Anas Iqtait, Senior Lecturer of Middle Eastern Studies at the Australian National UniversityImage Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, the government unveiled the Steel Industry Roadmap 2035, introducing a carbon tax mechanism that makes steel one of the first targeted sectors. How will this be implemented, and could it be expanded to other industries? For insights, we’ll be speaking with Dr. Renato Lima, Associate Professor at the Asia School of Business.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Currently, only the Prime Minister can decide when to dissolve the Federal Parliament, giving one person significant control over the timing of elections, says Wong Chin Huat, Deputy Head of Strategy at the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, Asia Headquarters. He recommends setting fixed election dates rather than holding simultaneous federal and state elections.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yet again, the US government is poised to shutdown as Congress struggles to reach a funding agreement before the start of the new fiscal year on October 1st. How severe could this shutdown be, and what positions are the Democrats and Republicans taking in this big stakes political showdown? Wendy Schiller, Professor of Political Science at Brown University, offers her insights.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China’s property developers still hold 5.3 trillion yuan in inventory as of June 2025, yet impairments of high-cost stock amount to just under 900 billion yuan, raising doubts over whether losses are being fully recognised. Andrew Chan, Credit Analyst, Bloomberg Intelligence tells us if recovery is in sight or if we can expect more defaults.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Football Association of Malaysia was fined by the global football body FIFA  for submitting doctored documentation on seven field players in an Asian Cup qualifier. Avineshwaran Taharumalengam, Senior Writer, Sports Desk, The Star tells us what this case reveals about challenges in the Malaysian football landscape and what is the path to sports greatness.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As ASEAN Chair, Malaysia is close to securing a landmark commitment: persuading major powers like China, Russia, and potentially the US to sign the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (Bangkok Treaty). Chong Ja Ian, Associate Professor of Political Science at the National University of Singapore, shares his insights into what this means for the region’s security.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To combat online fraud and better protect users, especially minors, the government is urging social media platforms to adopt electronic know-your-customer (eKYC) verification. According to CF Fong, CEO of LGMS Berhad, the key challenge lies in determining who will carry out the process and how the validity of the submitted data will be verified.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The controversial proposal for both parties to be held accountable in statutory rape cases, including underaged girls has sparked outrage and heated debate. Chief Children's Commissioner Dr. Farah Nini Dusuki reminds us why statutory rape provisions are crucial to protect the interests of children, and also discusses diversion mechanisms for underaged boys.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bersatu’s internal rifts are spilling into the open, with statutory declarations, leadership intrigue, and questions over Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s hold on the party. Ariel Tan, Senior Fellow & Coordinator for the Malaysia Programme at the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, discusses this and how PAS' urban push might shape Perikatan Nasional as we approach GE16.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The nascent digital asset market in Malaysia is expected to grow over time, but it will need the assistance of market makers to build depth and liquidity. Varun Mittal, founder of Fintech Nation, points out that markets like Hong Kong and Singapore have advanced more quickly, partly because they are not restricted by currency controls.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump’s latest move to impose a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas has sent shockwaves through the tech world and beyond, alarming even companies like Amazon and Microsoft. Muzaffar Chishti, Senior Fellow at the Migration Policy Institute, unpacks the political motivations, economic risks, and long-term implications of America's immigration crackdown.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to Nigel Wong, President of the Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA), Visit Malaysia Year 2026 will highlight the country’s cultural richness and unique destinations, aligning with global travel trends. He added that Malaysia should focus on attracting high-value tourists who can contribute more spending during their visits.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2025 National Health Screening Initiative has revealed that nearly a third of Malaysians are overweight or obese, costing the nation an estimated RM64 billion annually in healthcare, lost productivity, and premature deaths. Dr Sapna Shridhar Patil, a senior lecturer at the School of Medicine, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences of Taylor’s University discusses the drivers behind this and what can be done.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Timor-Leste is set to become ASEAN’s 11th member at the upcoming summit in Kuala Lumpur, after more than a decade of waiting for accession. What will Timor-Leste’s entry mean for the bloc? Sharon Seah, Senior Fellow and Coordinator, ASEAN Studies Centre at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute shares her perspective.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 80th United Nations General Assembly this month is taking place amid shifts in geopolitical dynamics and a general US pullback from the multilateral institution. We speak to Prof. Donald Rothwell of the ANU on how the high-level general debate has unfolded so far and how relations with the US could shape the future of the UN.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The BUDI95 fuel subsidy kicks off on September 30, with RON95 at just RM1.99 ringgit per litre. With 16 million Malaysians set to benefit, will petrol stations be able to handle the rush? We get the industry perspective from Dato' Khairul Annuar Abdul Aziz, President of the Petroleum Dealers Association of Malaysia (PDAM).Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China's recent data points to a sharper-than-expected cyclical slowdown as industrial output, retail sales and investment all stumbled in August, adding to doubts over whether Beijing can sustain its 5% growth target. Heron Lim, Lecturer of Economics at ESSEC Business School tells us if policy makers will be initiating new policy measures to counter this.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s live entertainment scene has been in the spotlight recently, due to discussions over dress codes. Earlier this year, the government introduced new guidelines and incentives to position Malaysia as a concert hub. To unpack these initiatives, we speak with Para Rajagopal, Founder of ALIFE, a collective of concert promoters.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recognition of a Palestinian state at the UN is gaining momentum, with Australia, the UK and France joining over 145 countries in support. Yet major players like the US and Japan remain hesitant. What impact does this have on a long lasting solution to the war in Gaza? We’ll discuss this with Dr James Dorsey, Adjunct Senior Fellow at S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The redevelopment of Kampung Sungai Baru has reignited heated debate after a chaotic eviction operation early this month. However the eviction was not sudden, but rather the result of nearly a decade of planning, disagreements, and legal battles. Lawyer Aliff Benjamin Suhaimi breaks down the legal arguments in the case.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Budi Madani RON95 (Budi95) fuel subsidy does not primarily benefit lower-income households, as initially indicated by the government, but instead rewards those who consume less petrol. Economist Dr Geoffrey Williams explains how this scheme fits into the Madani government’s broader fiscal reform agenda.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heated nation-wide protests have erupted in the Philippines as frustration grows over unmaterialised flood-control projects despite billions of pesos allegedly being poured into them. To help us unpack what these protests reveal about sentiment and corruption in the Philippines is Erin Cook, Journalist for Southeast Asian Affairs.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Deborah K. Elms, Head of Trade Policy at the Hinrich Foundation, says it is time for ASEAN countries to tackle non-tariff barriers to strengthen intra-regional trade,  as external pressures from the Trump administration intensify.Image Credit: Shutterstock.coSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Media authorities have fined Sin Chew Media and Sinar Karangkraf RM100,000 each. What does this mean for press freedom, and do we need clearer guidelines as AI becomes more mainstream in journalism? Joining us to discuss is Dr Benjamin Loh, Course Director of the Bachelor of Digital Media and Communication at Monash University Malaysia.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Election spending limits under the Election Offences Act 1954 have remained unchanged since 2023. Bersih Chairman Faisal Aziz outlines his proposals for updated spending caps and the reforms he believes should be in place ahead of the next general election, GE16.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China’s consumption recovery is losing steam, with August retail sales rising only 3.4% and falling short of expectations yet again. Policymakers are leaning on vouchers, cheaper credit, and holiday demand to revive momentum. Will this be enough to turn sentiment around? Catherine Lim, Senior Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, shares her analysis.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three out of four local manufacturers are already feeling the pinch from U.S. tariffs on their exports. Datuk William Ng, Chairman of the Small and Medium Enterprises Association (SAMENTA), describes how SMEs are responding by collaborating and sharing facilities to cut costs and stay competitive.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Global rice prices have fallen to their lowest level in eight years, with the UN’s All Rice Price Index shedding 24% in August compared with the same period last year. Helping us make sense of what’s shaping global rice markets is Lucrezia Cogliati, Agribusiness Analyst from BMI.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump has just completed his second state visit to Britain steeped in royal ceremony, but also met with public protest and diplomatic friction. Dr Benjamin Barton, Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham Malaysia looks at what’s at stake for London, Washington, and beyond.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.