Morning Brief

Recent PKR divisional election surprises and Rafizi Ramli’s leave and resignation offer have stirred concerns over party unity. With speculation around a possible leadership contest involving Nurul Izzah or Saifuddin Nasution, questions arise over PKR’s cohesion and its positioning within the broader national political landscape. Dr Azmil Mohd Tayeb, Political Scientist and Associate Professor at Universiti Sains Malaysia shares his insights.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bank Negara Malaysia retained the OPR at 3%, signalling a measured yet optimistic stance despite mounting global volatility from U.S. tariffs and inflationary pressures. With subdued Q1 inflation and a ringgit vulnerable to external forces, focus shifts to policy adaptability and structural reforms to fortify resilience. Julia Goh, Senior Economist at UOB shares her analysis.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Xi Jinping is on a four-day visit to Moscow for talks with President Vladimir Putin at a time when geopolitical dynamics are in flux. How are China-Russia relations evolving under a mercurial Trump White House? We discuss expectations for this visit with Dr. Malcolm Davis of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s chip sector faces growing risks from U.S. tariffs and global supply chain shifts. The Madani government is pursuing strategic deals with AMD and ARM, but questions remain about industry readiness, resilience, and long-term design ambitions. Dato' Wong Siew Hai shares key insights.Image Credits: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following the April 22 terrorist attack in Kashmir that killed 26 civilians, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” striking nine suspected militant sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. In response, Pakistan claims to have shot down five Indian jets. We speak with Dr Rahul Mishra, Associate Professor at the Centre for Indo-Pacific Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi to better understand the implications of this escalation.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first quarter of 2025 has seen significant developments among major US tech companies, with many surpassing Wall Street expectations, driven largely by advancements in AI and cloud services. Dan Ives, Managing Director at Wedbush Securities, shares his insights into what tech companies to pay attention to.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Taiwanese dollar jumped more than 6% in the span of two days this week, causing ripples across global forex markets. How much is this related to ongoing US-Taiwan trade negotiations? We discuss this with Caroline Wong, APAC Country Risk Analyst at BMI.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods have prompted exporters to use tactics like "place-of-origin washing," routing goods through third countries like Malaysia. This raises concerns about Malaysia's reputation, leading the Airfreight Forwarders Association of Malaysia (AFAM) to call for stricter checks on certificates of origin. Its Chairman, Thomas Matthew shares insights on the need for stronger regulations to prevent misuse.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On May 5th, Israel expanded ground operations in southern Gaza and introduced a new aid plan, triggering backlash from humanitarian groups. As civilian tolls rise, Netanyahu faces pressure at home and abroad—despite U.S. backing. How could this shift Israel’s diplomatic standing? For more insights, we speak with Amin Saikal, Emeritus Professor of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies at The Australian National University.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parliament convened urgently to address the 24% U.S. tariff on Malaysian exports, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim outlining a 90-day negotiation window. The tariff threatens Malaysia’s growth targets, prompting calls for strategic responses to safeguard trade, attract investment, and sustain global economic partnerships. Tan Sri Datuk Dr. Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria, Director of IDEAS unpacks the potential strategies and outcomes.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia has moved up 19 places in the World Press Freedom Index, signaling progress despite structural concerns. Radzi Razak, from Gerakan Media Merdeka (GERAMM) and a pro-tem member of the new Malaysian Media Council, discusses the factors behind the improvement and the key hurdles that remain for the country’s media landscape. Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bank of Japan has cut its growth outlook while maintaining monetary policy in the face of global tariffs. In South Korea, snap elections next month is ramping up political uncertainty. William Pesek, a columnist at Nikkei Asia helps us unpack what we can expect in the days and weeks ahead.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Singapore, the People’s Action Party (PAP) dominates again with 87 out of 97 seats, as Prime Minister Lawrence Wong scores 65.6% of the vote. Despite the strong win, growing concerns over housing and living costs continue to weigh on many Singaporeans. Eugene Tan, Associate Professor of Law at Singapore Management University shares his analysis on what the election results really mean for the future of the country.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia's opposition party has been left reeling after a bruising defeat in Saturday's federal election. Meanwhile, Labor's Anthony Albanese has defied the so-called "incumbency curse" to be re-elected Australia's prime minister in a landslide. Taking us through Australia’s election results is Dr Rob Manwaring, Associate Professor in the College of Business, Government and Law, Flinders University. Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s private healthcare sector is pushing back against a new mandate requiring the public display of drug prices. Doctors argue this policy was imposed without meaningful consultation and threatens the financial viability of smaller private practices. How might this regulatory shift reshape the dynamics between private practitioners and public health policy in Malaysia? Unpacking this matter is Azrul Mohd Khalib, CEO, Galen Centre for Health & Social Policy. Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although officials across the world - including those in Malaysia - have revised downward their economic growth targets for 2025, Tourism Malaysia aims for an even higher number of visitor arrivals to our country this year. To discuss the outlook for the local tourism sector in 2025 amid the US tariffs, we’ll be speaking with Nigel Wong, President of The Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA).Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With Singaporeans heading to the polls tomorrow, the upcoming election marks a significant moment in the country’s political journey. It will be the first major test for newly minted Prime Minister Lawrence Wong amidst a more fluid and unpredictable voter landscape emerging, over concerns of inflation, housing and a demand for diverse political voices. To unpack this, we’re joined by Dr Mustafa Izzuddin of the National University of Singapore.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The number of HIV infections among young people in Malaysia is steadily increasing, with 44% of new cases in individuals aged 20 to 29 and 4% in school students aged 13 to 19. This alarming rise calls for urgent action. Steps must be taken to reverse this trend and safeguard the future of Malaysia’s youth. Dr. Rabiathul Badariah Bazeer Ahmed, a volunteer with PT Foundations and HIV activist, shares her insights on the matter.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s inflation eased to 1.8% in 2024, but food prices climbed 2.5% due to rising costs of staples like rice and meat. As blanket subsidies are phased out, policymakers must weigh targeted support against market pricing. Dr Amjad Rabi explores the policy trade-offs ahead.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A massive power outage hit large areas of Spain and Portugal, as well as parts of southern France on Monday. While officials have yet to disclose the exact cause of the power cuts, this comes as experts warn of an oversupply of renewable energy putting pressure on the region’s power grid. So how do we strengthen our grid infrastructure to accommodate the growing demand for clean energy? We discuss this with Dr Renato Lima de Oliveira, Associate Professor at Asia School of Business.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s expanded SST, expected to generate RM5 billion in revenue, has been delayed to June 1 amid industry pushback. With implementation details still unclear, the delay adds pressure to fiscal consolidation efforts and highlights rising operational and market challenges facing tax reform execution. Dr. Veerinderjeet Singh, Senior Adviser on Tax Policy, KPMG and Adjunct Professor at Monash University joins us to share his insights and broader outlook.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former central banker Mark Carney has led the Liberals to an unexpected victory in Canada's federal election, unseating key Conservative figures and reshaping the political landscape. Dr Cristine de Clercy of Trent University helps us unpack the results, rising nationalism, and what lies ahead for Canada.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump's first 100 days into his second term has been marked by his aggressive policy moves, political battles, and global ramifications. Bryan DeAngelis of the Penta Group shares his perspectives.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With elections just around the corner in Singapore and the Philippines, foreign interference is making headlines. From PAS-linked figures in Singapore to Chinese disinformation campaigns in the Philippines, how will these external influences impact the political landscape? We are going to discuss this with Dr. Benjamin Loh, Course Director for the Bachelor of Digital Media and Communication at Monash University Malaysia.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia is expected to hold its federal election this Saturday, with opinion polls indicating a tight race between the ruling Labor Party and the opposition Liberal-National Coalition. Parties have been campaigning since late March in an effort to secure at least 76 seats for a majority in the 150-seat House of Representatives. Helping us unpack what to expect at the polls down south is Dr. Paul Williams, Associate Professor of Politics and Journalism at Griffith University.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has unveiled the RM180 million Warisan KL initiative to revitalise Kuala Lumpur’s historic core, pivoting from mega-projects toward community-driven development centered on culture, conservation, and green spaces. As ambitions rise, concerns remain over execution and whether it can catalyse meaningful investment or fall short once again. Mustapha Kamal, Urban Planner and Founder of Arkitek Mustapha Kamal shares his insights.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, it was reported that an unspecified number of investors' trading accounts have been hacked and used for unauthorised share buying on Bursa Malaysia. Both the SC and Bursa Malaysia have acted quickly but questions still remain over the accountability of this and the losses that resulted. Ng Zhu Hann, CEO & Founder, Tradeview Capital give us his views on this.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A deadly attack in Kashmir, resulting in the loss of 26 civilians has reignited the conflict between India and Pakistan. In response, both countries have exchanged accusations and retaliatory actions, including India suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and Pakistan closing its airspace to Indian airlines. To provide further insight into the situation, we speak with Dr. Keith Suter, Managing Director of the Global Directions think tank.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China’s small and mid-sized firms face growing pressure from high U.S. tariffs, weak domestic demand, and shifting global supply chains. How significant is their contribution to the economy, what policy support has been provided and can they mitigate this tariff storm? Giving us some clarity on this matter is Harry Murphy Cruise, Head of China and Australia Economics from Moody’s Analytics.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Barisan Nasional’s Dr Mohamad Yusri Bakir clinched Ayer Kuning with a 5,000-vote majority, but cracks are showing. BN’s vote share slipped, PN gained ground, and PSM doubled its support. Turnout plunged to 58%. The by-election result hints at voter fatigue — and a shifting political undercurrent BN can’t ignore. Helping us unpack the outcome of this by-election, along with other political developments, is Ibrahim Suffian, Programme Director at Merdeka Centre.Image Credti: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The recent rise of AI-generated music has raised concerns about ownership and intellectual property rights. With generative AI tools becoming more accessible, potentially outpacing our local copyright laws. We discuss the implications with Indran Shanmuganathan, IP Litigator and Partner at Shearn Delamore & Co. Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The April 26 Ayer Kuning by-election is seen as a key test for Malaysia’s political coalitions, with BN, PN, and PSM contesting a traditionally BN-held seat. With strong early turnout among uniformed voters and shifting loyalties, will BN retain its hold on Ayer Kuning, or could low voter turnout impact the results? We discuss this with Associate Professor Dr Syaza Shukri, Department Head of Political Science and Madani Studies at IIUM.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hope for ending the war in Ukraine has taken a hit after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected a peace plan from the U.S that heavily favors Russia, including demands for Ukraine to give up Crimea and abandon its NATO aspirations. This rejection led to the scaling down of key talks in London, leaving the future of peace efforts uncertain. Dr. Sonia Mycak, Research Fellow at the Centre for European Studies, Australian National University shares her insights on what this means for the conflict moving forward. Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Law Minister has announced a Cross-Border Insolvency Working Committee to align the country’s insolvency laws with international standards and review the adoption of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law Model Law. We ask Lee Shih, Managing Partner, Lim Chee Wee Partnership the importance of this new legislation and why it's good for Malaysia Inc.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will the US-China trade tensions hamper renewable energy adoption in Southeast Asia? We discuss the developments at play with Prof. Paul Burke, Deputy Director of the Crawford School of Public Policy at Australian National University.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US Commerce Department announced plans to impose tariffs of up to 3,521% on imports of solar panels from four South East Asian countries, including Malaysia. What kind of effect will this have on our local solar industry? We discuss the implications for the renewable energy sector with Shabrina Nadhila, Energy Analyst for Asia at Ember.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The strengthening ties between Malaysia and Indonesia were once again on display this week, with the Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi concluding a three-day visit to Jakarta. How might this visit pave the way for more opportunities for the two neighbours to collaborate amid challenging global conditions? We discussed the trends with Dr. Siwage Dharma Negara of ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Youth and Sports Ministry has introduced new SOPs for organising concerts, aimed at curbing drug abuse. The measures include deploying a medical team for emergency cases and displaying trailer messages about the dangers of drugs. To discuss these SOPs, we’ll be speaking with Rahul Kukreja, Director of Talent Booking at RK Live Asia - a concert promoter and talent booking agency.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Madani government’s proposed two-term limit for the Prime Minister and revived political financing bill, signal major reform efforts. With no automatic extension to state leaders and ongoing consultations, concerns persist over enforcement, and political will. How might these reforms shape governance in Malaysia? Giving his perspective is Professor Wong Chin Huat, Deputy Head of Strategy, Asia Headquarters of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the U.S imposing up to 145% tariffs on Chinese imports and China retaliating with 125%, the cost of American-made jets, including the Boeing 737 MAX, has surged, leading to delivery delays and even returns to the U.S. Shantanu Gangakhedkar, Aviation Consultant at Frost & Sullivan shares his analysis on the impact of these developments on the global aviation outlook.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Advance estimates by the Department of Statistics, Malaysia’s GDP growth slowed to 4.4% in the first quarter of this calendar year, easing from 5% in the previous quarter. What contributed to this slowing expansion of our economy, and how might our GDP numbers be impacted by global volatility, especially US tariffs? We get some thoughts from Lavanya Venkateswaran, Senior ASEAN Economist, OCBC.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US Vice-President JD Vance is currently in India, on a high-profile trip that blends high-stakes trade talks with family sightseeing. Can the visit pave the way for a bilateral trade deal that would avoid the worst of tariffs for India? We discuss what’s at stake for India-US relations with Dr. Amintendu Palit of the National University of Singapore.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crude palm oil futures have seen a softening this month, as the threat of higher US tariffs raises concerns over weakening demand for the edible oil. How are industry players navigating the uncertainty? We discuss the outlook for the palm oil sector with Alvin Tai of Bloomberg Intelligence.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will create a special task force with the Economy Ministry to supervise projects approved by the Ministry at the state and district levels to ensure transparency, curb corruption, misappropriation, and abuse of power. Dr. Tricia Yeoh, Associate Professor of Practice, University of Nottingham Malaysia's School of Politics & International Relations gives us view on this move and how this might impact state-federal relations.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Japan, first in line with trade talks with the US, ended without any conclusion despite the surprise participation of President Donald Trump. What impact will this have on their economy as they face twin pressures of slowing growth and rising inflation? For more insights, we’ll be speaking with Stefan Angrick, Head of Japan Economics at Moody’s Analytics.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim met with Myanmar junta chief General Min Aung Hlaing in Bangkok last week. Could this overture open the gate for further progress in finding a solution to the civil war in Myanmar that has gone on for 4 years? We discuss the implications with Moe Thuzar of the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amid the ongoing trade tensions, Malaysian SMEs are facing significant challenges with the potential introduction of a 24% U.S tariff, in addition to the 10% blanket tariff.  We speak to Datuk William Ng, Chairman of the Small and Medium Enterprises Association (SAMENTA) on how SMEs are navigating the turmoil and the actions needed from the government to mitigate the economic impact.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As transatlantic ties come under strain due to US President Donald Trump’s tariff threats, China hawks within the European Union are beginning to show a willingness to rethink the bloc’s relationship with Beijing. Initially, will the two foes unite against the greater enemy that is the Trump administration? We discuss this with Dr. Frederick Kliem, Director of Southeast Asia at the Economist Intelligence Corporate Network.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia and China renewed their commitment to jointly promote regional as well as global prosperity and stability during the state visit of President Xi Jinping this week. What were the key takeaways from the 3-day visit and how will it shape bilateral relations moving forward? Bunn Nagara of the Renaissance Strategic Research Institute weighs in. Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Motorcyclists make up over 60% of road fatalities in Malaysia, with heavy vehicle accidents also a major concern. The government is considering dedicated motorcycle lanes and stricter regulations for lorries. UPM Vice-Chancellor Dato’ Prof. Dr. Ahmad Farhan weighs in on the impact of these proposed measures.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.