Morning Brief

After a shaky start, the peace truce between Thailand and Cambodia appears to be holding, following two rounds of talks in Kuala Lumpur under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, current chair of the ASEAN bloc. Dato’ Dr Ilango Karuppannan, former Malaysian ambassador and Adjunct Senior Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, says personal relationships remain a critical ingredient in brokering lasting peace.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 13th Malaysia Plan sets bold targets for public transport reform. With major rail projects, structural changes, and increased investment in the pipeline, will these efforts be enough to drive real improvement? We get insights from Dr Law Teik Hua, Associate Professor, Universiti Putra Malaysia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two key indicators that economists monitor to assess the strength of China’s economy are industrial production and domestic demand. With China approaching the August 12th deadline to renew its tariff truce with the US, how might this impact the outlook for the country’s manufacturing production and domestic consumption? For insights, we’ll be speaking with Ada Li, Senior Industry Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Parliament convenes for its second meeting of 2025, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has released multiple reports. Teresa Kok, Vice Chairman, Public Accounts Committee (PAC) & Member of Parliament for Seputeh reminds us about the critical role they play and how it is the best example of bipartisan politics at work.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the tabling of the 13MP announced that the country is targeting MSMEs to contribute 50 per cent of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030, a significant increase from about 39 per cent in 2023. Datuk William Ng, Chairman, Small and Medium Enterprises Association (SAMENTA) tells if the 13MP initiatives can help MSMEs achieve this goal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Edmund Bon Tai Soon, Chair and Representative of Malaysia to the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR), shares an update on a proposed legally binding human rights resolution targeted for adoption within five years. He also discusses two key declarations on the environment and on peace that are expected to be adopted at the 47th ASEAN Summit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. has raised tariffs on a number of ASEAN countries, with rates ranging from 19% to as high as 40%. Could this hurt the region’s growth and push Southeast Asia to rethink its trade ties? We speak to Dr. Jayant Menon, Visiting Senior Fellow at ISEAS–Yusof Ishak Institute.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia has officially made secondary education mandatory following passing of the Education (Amendment) Bill in Parliament. Meanwhile, plans to build vertical schools in the Klang Valley are progressing, with the Education Ministry announcing that development guidelines have been finalised. Joining us now is Chan Soon Seng, CEO of Teach For Malaysia, to help us unpack what these developments mean.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Under this plan, the economy is projected to grow by 4.5-5.5% a year, with aspirations for Malaysia to be a high income nation by 2030 and one of the top 30 economies in the world. This plan is also supposed to have a sharper focus on domestic demand, good governance, digital transformation, and sustainable growth, Professor Tricia Yeoh, Associate Professor of Practice, University of Nottingham Malaysia's School of Politics & International Relations tells us if these goals are achievable.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The tariff deadline for US tariffs has just passed and with many countries not having a trade deal, what impact does that have on Asia's economy? Tommy Xie, Head of Asia Macro Research, OCBC Bank gives us his perspective and what is the reason for the US dollar to appreciate of late.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

International support for Palestinian statehood has been gaining momentum with Canada and Britain lending their voices. Additionally, a group of 15 countries including Australia and New Zealand have signed a New York Call joint diplomatic appeal to revive momentum for a two-state solution. Amin Saikal, Emeritus Professor of Middle Eastern & Central Asian Studies at the Australian National University shares his views on these developments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s government debt could top the statutory ceiling of 65% debt-to-GDP ratio this year amid a moderating economy and sustained spending. Dr Cassey Lee, Senior Fellow and Coordinator, Regional Economic Studies Programme, ISEAS - Yusof Ishak Institute gives us his thoughts if this is cause for concern.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s mobile service providers have come under increasing scrutiny, with the Malaysian Communications & Multimedia Commission issuing over 900 directives for non-compliance since 2022. Amin Ashaari, CEO of tech news site SoyaCincau.com talks to us about what this reveals about the quality (or lack thereof) of our wireless networks and what needs to change.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Dewan Rakyat on Monday passed the Offenders Compulsory Attendance (Amendment) Bill 2025, meaning courts are now empowered to sentence certain offenders to community service instead of imprisonment. Giving his thoughts on whether this alternative form of punishment works, is Dato’ Vignesh Kumar, Advocate and Solicitor and former Deputy Public Prosecutor.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government’s decision to run two immigration systems in parallel, the Foreign Worker Centralised Management System (FWCMS) and the upcoming National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe) has raised concerns about overlapping functions. We speak to Alex Ong, Country Representative of Migrant CARE, to unpack the implications. Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. economy remains steady, while China grapples with an overcapacity issue that’s weighing on its corporate sector. With expectations building over whether the trade truce will be extended—or if tariffs will snap back to over 100%—Beijing and Washington are once again at a critical crossroads.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) will be continuing its electoral pact with Pakatan Harapan for the upcoming state election, reaffirming a partnership that began in 2023. This comes amid allegations of corruption linked to a former aide to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. James Chin, a professor in Asian Studies at the University of Tasmania, shares insights into the latest developments there.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Hang Seng Index has hit a four year high yet property prices are down by 30% since June 2021. We ask Patrick Wong, Head of Hong Kong & Senior Analyst, Asia Pacific Real Estate, Bloomberg Intelligence as to why this negative correlation exist. We also ask if the Chinese property market which is in the doldrums has any impact on Hong Kong.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is in Indonesia to meet President Prabowo Subianto as both neighbours hold their first Annual Consultation in almost eight years. Julia Lau, Senior Fellow, and Coordinator of the Indonesia Studies Programme at ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute shares insights into what both leaders are expected to address.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia's Human Rights Commission, Suhakam, is now left with only three commissioners left, below the minimum required by law, with one more due to step down soon. Jerald Joseph, Director of Pusat Komas, Chair of CSO Platform on Reforms and a former Suhakam commissioner talks about the implications of this leadership vacuum and what needs to change.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, the Securities Commission (SC) Malaysia said it may introduce mandatory corporate governance practices in the upcoming revision of the Malaysian Code on Corporate Governance. P. Gunasegaram, Independent Business Writer tells us if this is good for Malaysia Inc and why it needs to be followed by enforcement.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia is likely only if both sides can reach a deal that allows their leaders to “save face” domestically. Sebastian Strangio, Southeast Asia Editor at The Diplomat, shares his insights on what it will take to secure lasting peace in the region.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Turun Anwar Rally, on July 26, drew thousands of protesters, though crowd estimates vary depending on the source. However, the biggest challenge facing the opposition coalition in rallying support for a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Anwar is the absence of a clear and credible alternative to lead the government. Dr. Azmi Hassan, Senior Fellow at the Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research, offers his take on Malaysia's evolving political landscape.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Widespread starvation has reached alarming levels in Gaza. While Israel eased some restrictions on aid entry over the weekend, relief agencies say far more needs to be done. Joining us to unpack the hunger crisis is Dato' Dr Ahmad Faizal Mohd Perdaus, President of MERCY Malaysia.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The proliferation of online scam centres, particularly in Southeast Asia, has been a major concern despite various multilateral efforts to combat these crimes. Consequently, hundreds of thousands of victims may still be trapped in situations deemed less than human. Dr Surachanee Sriyai, Visiting Fellow, Media, Technology & Society Programme at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute shares her insights. Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ahead of the “Turun Anwar” rally tomorrow, both the chief secretary to the government and the Attorney-General’s Chambers have cautioned civil servants from attending. Faisal Aziz, Bersih Chairman joins us to discuss our civil liberties when it comes to peaceful assemblies. Image Credit: Shutterstock.com   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia Keeps BBB+ RatingDespite recent populist measures, Fitch Ratings has reaffirmed Malaysia’s sovereign credit rating at BBB+. Kathleen Chen, Associate Director of Asia-Pacific Sovereigns, explains the rationale.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's to designate this coming Sep 15th an additional public holiday in celebration of Malaysia Day has sparked concern among business stakeholders. Datuk Shamsuddin Bardan, Advisor to the Malaysian Employers' Federation share his thoughts on this and the impact such last-minute public holidays can have on business operations.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Dewan Rakyat has passed amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010. Key changes include allowing protection even if disclosures breach written laws, and giving agencies more discretion to protect whistleblowers involved in wrongdoing. Raymon Ram, President of Transparency International Malaysia discusses this development.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam have each announced new trade deals with the United States, signaling a significant shift in regional trade dynamics. But the agreements have also stirred concern, with several terms still vague or potentially contentious. Dr. Deborah K. Elms, Head of Trade Policy at the Hinrich Foundation, unpacks what’s really at stake.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taiwan’s political landscape is under pressure as 24 Kuomintang lawmakers face an unprecedented recall vote. Could this political upheaval jeopardise Taiwan’s security? Brian Hioe, Co-Founding Editor of New Bloom Magazine, discusses the potential outcomes for the island’s future.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2nd 2025 Auditor General’s Report revealed a staggering 48.78 billion ringgit in mismanaged government projects, exposing deep-rooted failures across seven ministries. This raises urgent questions: Are laws and processes enough, or do we need a political and institutional overhaul?. Joining us to unpack this issues is Sri Murniati Yusuf, Senior Research Fellow, IDEAS Malaysia.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A truly “liveable and loveable” city isn’t built on technology alone. It is shaped by people empowered by good technology. Hj. Ihsan Zainal Mokhtar, Registered Town Planner at IZM Consult, outlines the critical success factors that must accompany Kuala Lumpur’s AI push to ensure the city’s digital transformation serves its people, not just its systems.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Israel’s prolonged war on Gaza and expanding strikes in Syria are reshaping the region’s geopolitical fault lines, deepening humanitarian crises and igniting fresh instability. Dr James Dorsey, Adjunct Senior Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, weighs in on the deepening turmoil in the Middle East.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump has been US president for six months, and his second term is already marked by sweeping, radical change. Samuel Garrett, Senior Research Associate, United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney assesses Trump's performance so far, measured up against his stated goals and campaign promises.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parliament reconvened yesterday for the second meeting of the fourth session of the 15th Parliament, which runs until August 28 putting the spotlight back on its role in a functioning democracy. We ask Maha Balakrishnan, Parliamentary Researcher, UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, Sunway University  as to what to expect and how parliament's role can be made even more robust in Malaysia.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s property sector continues to show strength in the first half of 2025, with resilient demand across residential, industrial, and hospitality segments. Yulia Nikulicheva, Head of Research & Consultancy at JLL Malaysia, joins us to break down the key drivers, emerging risks, and what investors should watch for when navigating Malaysia’s real estate market.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shares of Malaysian listed glove makers, including Top Glove, Hartalega, and Kossan Rubber, have each shed around 50% since the start of the year. Oong Chun Sung, Equity Research Analyst, RHB Investment Bank tell us if it's time to bottom fish or should we remain underweight the sector ahead of the existing headwinds.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Things are looking increasingly challenging for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba following the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s loss of control in the Upper House elections. William Pesek, columnist for Nikkei Asia, weighs in on the mounting pressures facing Japan, especially with the August 1 deadline for US tariff negotiations approaching.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Advance estimates by the Statistics Department show that Malaysia’s economy grew by 4.5% in the second quarter compared to a year earlier. Helping us unpack how the economy performed and what lies ahead with a potential tariff storm is Woon Khai Jhek, Head of Economic Research and Senior Economist at RAM Ratings.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new Chief Justice of Malaya, Datuk Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh, has finally been appointed after weeks of speculation, but vacancies remain within the country’s judicial system. Dato’ Sri M. Ramachelvam, lawyer and President of the National Human Rights Society, discusses the importance of maintaining judicial integrity and avoiding leadership vacuums in moments of transition like this.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Datuk Ir. Ahmad Fauzi Hassan, Advisory Board Member of the Malaysian Energy Professionals Association, discusses the growing problem of electricity theft linked to illegal cryptocurrency mining, as well as Tenaga Nasional Berhad’s (TNB) newly introduced electricity tariff system.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia is facing mounting pressure to reform its water sector amid rising costs, ageing pipes, and climate volatility. S Piarapakaran, President of the Association of Water and Energy Research Malaysia (AWER), talks about the challenges of non-revenue water and infrastructure backlogs, even as the government reviews water tariffs in 10 states.Image Credit: shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

International student enrollment continues to lag behind targets, even as Kuala Lumpur secured 12th place in the 2026 QS Best Student Cities ranking. Economist Dr. Geoffrey Williams, Founder of Williams Business Consultancy, discusses the challenges facing the sector, despite a rise in students from China.Image Credit: shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With just two weeks to go before the extended tariff deadline, Malaysia may be forced to accept a one-sided trade agreement. Business writer Pankaj C. Kumar weighs in on what’s at stake for Malaysia and why, in the end, these tariffs could backfire on the American economy.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The world's largest publicly traded dating app companies have seen a drop in earnings and paid subscriptions, reflecting a shift in consumer behaviour resulting in a structural slowdown in user engagement. Nicole D’Souza from Bloomberg Intelligence breaks down what’s behind the slowdown, which platforms are still standing strong, and how AI might shape the future of online dating.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the Freedom of Information Act set to be tabled by year’s end, Dr. Punitha Silivarajoo, Deputy Director General (Policy & Development) at the Legal Affairs Division, Prime Minister’s Department, discusses what it will take for the legislation to deliver true transparency and empower the rakyat with meaningful access to public information.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The tech sector is still running hot with generative AI igniting unprecedented gains and propelling giants like Nvidia to new highs. Jonathan Curtis, CIO of Franklin Equity Group, talks to us about how with valuation as elevated as they are now, are there still legs to this rally?Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The country is still waiting for the appointment of Malaysia's top judges. We ask Ragunath Kesavan, Former President, Malaysian Bar Council & Commissioner, SUHAKAM if there is a current judicial crisis and what should the priorities of this Madani government be to resolve the issues.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Donald Trump is now threatening 100% tariffs on Russia and its trade partners unless the Ukraine war ends within 50 days, a 180° turn from his praises of President Vladimir Putin previously. Dr Alexey Muraviev, Associate Professor in National Security and Strategic Studies at Curtin University, for insights into the shifting dynamics of this global conflict.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.