Morning Brief

Bank Negara Malaysia's latest monetary policy statement has shown that central headline inflation eased from 1.7% in January to 1.5% in February 2025, while core inflation, which excludes volatile items like fresh food, inched higher to 1.9% in February 2025 compared with 1.8% in January. Ahmad Mohd Ripin the Deputy Director, Monetary Policy Department of Bank Negara Malaysia explains the disconnect between official inflation figures and the public’s lived experience of rising costs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore has dissolved its parliament and will head to the polls on May 3rd. PAP Leader, Lawrence Wong faces his first test against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty and rising cost of living. James Gomez, Regional Director of the Asia Centre tells us how the election will pan out and the issues that will arise.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meta is facing a historic antitrust trial that could force the tech giant to sell off Instagram and WhatsApp, despite Mark Zuckerberg's efforts to charm the US President. What is the Trump administration's strategy in regulating the tech sector? We discuss this with Dr Kathryn Robison of the University of Sydney.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two days after the announcement of US President Donald Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs, Beijing ordered a ban of seven rare earth elements unless companies have a special license to do so. Since these rare earth elements and products are crucial for multiple manufacturing industries, can Malaysia seize this opportunity and move up the rare earth value chain? We discuss this with Gloria Lin, Research Officer with the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute.Image Credits: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The global semiconductor industry is entering a critical phase, amid escalating US-China tensions, driven by Washington tightening export controls as well as prohibitive tariffs. Masahiro Wakasugi of Bloomberg Intelligence breaks down the cost pressures, supply chain shifts, and strategic pivots plus what comes next for giants like ASML and Nvidia.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today marks China President Xi Jinping’s second day of his three-day official visit to Malaysia. What do both countries hope to achieve, especially considering the ongoing trade war and tariff storm? Professor Shandre Mugan Thangavelu, Head of the Jeffrey Cheah Institute for Southeast Asia, Sunway University shares his thoughts.Image Credit: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Sabah gears up for its 17th state election, political alliances are shifting. Sabah UMNO Chief Bung Moktar, announced BN’s alignment with PH. While PKR and DAP back the move, they want clarity on BN’s ties with GRS. Ariff Adi Putera Anwar, Research Associate from the Institute for Development Studies (Sabah) unpacks what’s driving this realignment.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US Treasuries suffered a five-day selloff last week, with 10-year US bonds yields surging to their highest in over 20 years, as markets were whipsawed by President Donald Trump’s shifting trade policies. While treasuries have somewhat rebounded since, can these gains be sustained? We discuss the outlook for the US and Asian bond markets with Winson Phoon of Maybank Investment Bank.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the U.S. considers new tariffs on imported pharmaceuticals, Malaysia is preparing for potential supply disruptions. In response, the government is exploring alternative sources from China and India to lessen reliance on U.S. imports. We discuss the implications and next steps with Prof. Amrahi Buang of the Malaysia Pharmacists Society.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry has downgraded its GDP growth forecast for 2025 to 0 to 2 percent, from its previous projection of 1 to 3 per cent. At the same time, MAS has eased its monetary policy. Khoon Goh, Head of Asia Research, ANZ tells us what this means for the island city economy and what can they do to mitigate the impact of tariffs.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s 5G rollout has officially reached 82% coverage in populated areas, but the quality and consistency of internet service, especially in underserved and even urban fringe zones remains a core issue. In response, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil recently issued an ultimatum to telcos to propose concrete solutions to internet access gaps - what are the problems that need to be resolved? We discuss this with Amin Ashaari of SoyaCincau.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Banking stocks in Malaysia and Singapore are under pressure as analysts issue downgrades amid concerns of weaker loan growth and higher credit costs, brought on by the global trade war that US President Donald Trump’s tariffs started. Sarah Jane Mahmud, a senior industry analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence shares her insights into how regional banks may be bracing for a potential slowdown.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ministry of Human Resources is piloting a One-Stop Centre in Penang to simplify services for workers and employers. Anthony Raja Devadoss, the country managing director for Korn Ferry Malaysia shares his insights on this development and what more needs to be done to support Malaysia’s evolving workforce.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Malaysian Bar supports a constitutional challenge against the Judicial Appointments Committee over concerns of executive influence. Chief Justice Tengku Maimun calls for reform to restore trust. Bar Council VP Anand Raj discusses how the case could impact judicial independence and shape Malaysia’s broader institutional reform agenda.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PKR has begun internal elections at the divisional level, ahead of central leadership polls on May 24. With party leaders holding top government roles, including Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, these elections may reflect shifts in Malaysia’s political landscape. Dr. Oh Ei Sun joins us to explore the broader implications.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even as US President Donald Trump called for a 90-pause on US tariffs, he raised them to an eye-watering 145% on Chinese imports. In response, Beijing fired back with its own 125% tariffs on US goods. Todd Brighton, Senior Vice President, Portfolio Manager, Franklin Income Investors discusses whether this could be the end of free trade, and what strategies investors can consider adopting.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are gloves in Malaysia one sector that benefits from these tariffs? After all, a proposed 24% tariff is vastly lower than the 145% rate imposed on China. But do rising costs, cautious buyers, and potential supply gluts add pressure to glove markets? Oon Kim Hung, President of MARGMA (Malaysian Rubber Glove Manufacturers Association) joins us to share his insights on the issue and its broader implications.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia will be heading to Washington DC later this month to discuss the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the US, which have now been paused, with the original 24% tariff reduced to 10%. Liew Chin Tong, the Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry talks about the current situation and what Malaysia hopes to gain from the negotiation.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The April 26 Ayer Kuning, Perak by-election tests Malaysia’s political coalitions, with BN, PN, and PSM contesting a BN stronghold. Analysts warn that low turnout or a split vote may reflect deeper disillusionment and influence future state election strategies. Prof. Azmi Hassan discusses its broader political implications.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia is the fifth largest exporter of liquified natural gas (LNG) and has ambitions to become an ASEAN hub for LNG. How much does this align with the nation's energy transition plans and low-carbon economy aims? We discuss the future of LNG in the energy sector with Dr. Renato Lima de Oliveira of ASB and IDEAS.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A US-China trade war has fully erupted, with sky-high tariffs coming into force from both sides. What impact will this have on China’s economy and will Beijing bring out its fiscal stimulus bazooka in response? We discuss this with economist Heron Lim of Moody’s Analytics.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz at a press conference, responded to the US-imposed 24% tariffs with five key measures to cushion the impact on the economy and export sectors. The strategy centres on export diversification and trade ties—but questions remain if it relies too much on short-term fixes over deeper structural trade challenges. Dr. Calvin Cheong, Vice Dean and Associate Professor from the Sunway Business School joins us to break down the implications.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Housing Ministry has blacklisted 109 developers for failing to submit required reports on project progress and financials, undermining regulatory oversight. With persistent delays and abandoned projects, concerns grow over the effectiveness of existing checks. Dr. Joshua Netto, Immediate Past President of the Project Management Institute Malaysia Chapter, offers insights on whether deeper reform is needed.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vietnam was once a poster child of the "China Plus One" strategy as the nation became a popular destination for manufacturing giants wanting an inexpensive location and a skilled labour force. This followed US President Donald Trump's move to isolate Beijing during his first term in office. Daniel Moss, a Bloomberg opinion columnist, shares his take on how a second Trump presidency and its slapping of a 46% tariff on Vietnam has changed everything.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US has imposed a 24% reciprocal tariff on Malaysian imports, reduced from an earlier proposed 47% tied to trade imbalances. Key sectors—steel, aluminum, automobiles, and semiconductors—remain exempt. Malaysia has opted for diplomacy over retaliation, though growth projections have been revised downward. Azril Rosli, Economist at Maybank Investment Bank, shares his perspective on the long-term economic and global implications of this approach.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bursa Malaysia saw 55 IPOs in 2024, marking a near-20-year high for the bourse. This has not gone unnoticed by Singapore companies with two receiving approval to list on Bursa Malaysia. We ask Wong Kar Choon, Disruptive Events Advisory Leader of Deloitte SEA-Malaysia if the pipeline is still strong in 2025 or are tariffs going to disrupt this.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil prices have dropped to a four-year low, driven by higher output from OPEC, the US, and Brazil. Concerns over China’s demand recovery and ongoing tariff tensions add to market uncertainty. Vandana Hari, Founder and CEO of Vanda Insights, joins us to discuss the outlook for oil prices.Image Credits: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US is one of the biggest export destinations for Malaysia’s electrical and electronic products, and while our semiconductors have been exempted from the April 2nd tariffs, what knock on effects will we see affecting the sector? Although Malaysian semiconductors have been exempted from the US’s newly imposed 24% tariffs, broader concerns. remain. Discussing this with us is Andrew Chan, Director of the Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Korea is at a crossroads following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-Yeol last Friday. With a snap election most likely set for June, the country is also facing rising tensions with the U.S. and the ongoing threat from North Korea. What lies ahead for South Korea? We delve into this with Prof. Donald Leslie Baker, Professor in the Asian Studies Department at the University of British Columbia.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sabah unveiled the Rural Agricultural Economic Revolution (RAER), a six-year initiative anchored in agro-based development and rural empowerment, backed by RM10 million in funding. Targeting idle land utilisation, RAER aspires to uplift local economies. But gaps in infrastructure and coordination question its feasibility. We seek clarity from Adrian Lasimbang, Founder of TONIBUNG and President of Pertubuhan Suara Anak Sabah.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Trump’s sweeping tariffs are hitting Asia hard, with China, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia facing hefty levies going up as high as 49%. Selena Ling, the Chief Economist at OCBC Bank, breaks down the economic impact, the hardest-hit sectors, and how countries might fight back.Image Credits: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seven of the world’s largest tech companies, which have already been experiencing a brutal quarter, were hit with another blow after U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs set to disrupt their supply chains. While the Magnificent Seven had a stellar run in 2024, will they be able to sustain the rally in 2025 on the back of Trump’s tariffs? For answers, we’ll turn to Dan Ives, Managing Director at Wedbush Securities. Image Credits: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia is rolling out AI-powered point-to-point speed monitoring to curb accidents but is enforcement really the best way to address road safety and to reduce accidents on our highways? Dr Law Teik Hua, Associate Professor at the Road Safety Research Centre, Universiti Putra Malaysia shares his views on this and what more can be done for road safety.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marine Le Pen, the head of France’s far right National Rally party was convicted of embezzlement by a Paris Court on Tuesday. Is this truly the end of the road for Le Pen’s fight for French presidency, and who could take her place if her appeals fall through? We speak to Benjamin Barton, Head of School of Politics and International Relations, University of Nottingham Malaysia for some insights.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A minimum of 10% tariff on all exporters to the US will be imposed whilst additional duties will be slapped on 60 other countries. Preston Caldwell, Senior US Economist, Morningstar helps us breakdown what this annoucement means for the US economy and if this will cause the world's largest economy to slip into a recession.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A powerful gas explosion in Putra Heights ignited a massive blaze that took hours to bring under control. The incident caused extensive damage, affecting over 200 homes and displacing more than 300 residents. Assemblywoman for Subang Jaya, Michelle Ng Mei Sze shares updates on the ongoing relief efforts and the investigation into the cause of the explosion.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s electoral map may shift dramatically—not through legislation, but as voters update their addresses. Tindak Malaysia highlights potential rises in Malay-majority, mixed, and even Orang Asli-majority seats, while Chinese-majority areas may shrink. This raises concerns about overcrowding, underrepresentation, and systemic readiness. Danesh Prakash Chacko, Director at Tindak Malaysia joins us to share his insights on the issue and its broader implications.Image Credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AI is projected to add USD$1 trillion to South East Asia's GDP by 2030. Piyush Jain, Technology, Media & Telecommunications Industry Strategy, Risk & Transactions Leader, Deloitte Southeast Asia tells us why important for there to be the right infrastructure in place to benefit from this and how countries can also help their local companies to thrive from this.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar last Friday, leaving more than 2,000 casualties and 3,900 injured victims in its wake. Relief efforts are still ongoing, and rescuers from several countries have joined local efforts to locate survivors. We speak to Jaw Tu Hkawng, freelance Journalist, legal advocate & activist to get a clearer picture of the situation on the ground. Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, was found via wastewater analysis in Lembah Subang on Wednesday. Just how dangerous can this ‘zombie drug’ be? Professor Dr. Vicknasingam Kasinather, Centre for Drug Research, Universiti Sains Malaysia shares his insights on the matter. Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra successfully passed a no-confidence vote, receiving support from 319 of the 488 lawmakers present. With allegations of economic mismanagement, foreign influence, and policy missteps, can she prove herself as a strong leader and maintain Thailand’s stability? Dr. Greg Raymond, Senior Lecturer, Australian National University shares his analysis on what’s next for Thailand.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s retail sector is rebounding ahead of Raya 2025, fueled by wage hikes, cash aid, and digital-first spending—especially in F&B and fashion. However, inflation, uneven rural recovery, and online fatigue may curb gains. Can retailers sustain this momentum beyond the festive boost, or is a post-Raya slowdown on the horizon? Michael Liew, Secretary-General, Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) weighs in on the outlook of the retail sector this festive season.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD surpassed the 100 billion US dollar mark in sales last year, leapfrogging US-based Tesla. However, can it sustain this performance in light of the 25% tariff on auto imports announced by the Trump administration on Wednesday? To discuss this, we’ll be speaking with Joanna Chen, Asia Auto Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence. Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Madani Government is setting up a committee to review three major pieces of criminal legislation with an 18-month timeframe. What are the key areas of reform that need urgent attention? Lawyer Edmund Bon of AmerBON Advocates. Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s Labor government unveiled fresh tax cuts worth tens of billions of dollars, along with other sweeteners, in its latest federal budget, just a month or two before an election is expected to be held. How might this affect the outcome of elections? We discuss the dynamics with Dr. Jill Sheppard of the Australian National University.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PlanMalaysia, under the Housing & Local Government Ministry (KPKT), is creating a unified app to ease EV charging location and access across providers in Malaysia. What are the pain points in charging that the app aims to address and what’s needed for this to be effective? We get thoughts from Amin Ashaari, CEO and Co-Founder of SoyaCincau.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A recent cyber attack on Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd, has raised concerns about the security of critical infrastructure. With cyber-attacks becoming more frequent and complex, how can Malaysia enhance its cybersecurity measures and what should businesses implement on their end? CF Fong, Executive Chairman, LGMS Berhad gives us his perspective.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fitch Ratings cut its forecast for global economic growth by 0.3 percentage points to 2.3% this year, adding that the expansion of the world’s economy will remain weak at 2.2% in 2026. We speak to one of the authors of this report as to what the impact will be on APAC economies. Alex Muscatelli, Director, Fitch Ratings’ Economics Team joins us.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bank Negara’s 2024 report shows labour productivity rose to 2.4%, but wage growth slowed to 2.9%. Despite a recovering job market, conservative wage-setting driven by economic uncertainties raises concerns. Questions remain about the minimum wage’s broader impact and issues in wage stagnation that could affect talent retention and competitiveness. Dr. Geoffrey Williams, an Economist, Founder & Director of Williams Business Consultancy shares gives us some clarity on this matter.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There have been talks of a potential cabinet reshuffle happening since the end of last year, and after Investment, Trade & Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz confirmed on the Breakfast Grille this month, that he would step down as a minister in mid-December, these rumours have found new life. Dr Syaza Shukri, Associate Professor at the Department of Political Science & Madani Studies at the International Islamic University of Malaysia, shares her take on this.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.