Morning Brief

January 20th marks the official inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th US President, and the lead-up to his second term is vastly different from 2017. What are the immediate moves expected once Trump returns to the White House? We discuss expectations for Trump 2.0 with Wendy Schiller of Brown University. Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) launched the Belanjawanku Guide 2024/2025 in tandem with its new Retirement Income Adequacy (RIA) Framework to help Malaysians improve their financial management towards a decent living post-retirement. We speak to Balqais Yusoff, Head of Policy and Strategy Department at EPF for insights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Joe Biden leaves the White House after one term in office with an approval rating at the lowest point of his presidency. Dr Adrian Ang, Research Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, takes a look at some of Biden's achievements and how he thinks the oldest US president ever will be remembered in the annals of history.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the world seeks cleaner energy options, nuclear power is gaining attention as a potential solution to meet rising demands and reduce carbon emissions. While some countries like Germany are moving away from it, others including Malaysia are considering nuclear energy with an emphasis on safety and sustainability. We discuss these developments with Dr Alvin Chew, Senior Fellow, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Annually, CLSA, a Hong Kong-based capital markets and investment group releases a tongue-in-cheek Feng Shui guide on how the Hang Seng index will perform. Susan Zhang, the Sorcerer’s Apprentice from CLSA, shares her tips on what zodiac signs and elements might do well or otherwise when the Year of the Snake slithers in next week.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government has formed a committee to review the Contracts Act 1950 and bring it up to date with modern economic developments. What are the gaps in the law that need to be addressed? We discuss this with Dr. Adnan Trakic, Director of the Centre for Commercial Law and Regulatory Studies, Malaysia Hub, Monash University. Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After months of negotiations, a ceasefire deal in Gaza between Hamas and Israel has finally been agreed on, brokered by Qatar, the US, and Egypt. Will this agreement provide a foundation for stability in Gaza, or is the region facing more uncertainty ahead? We speak to Dr. James Dorsey, Adjunct Senior Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies for immediate reactions.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bank Negara Malaysia and the Finance Ministry have now approved all five licensed digital banks, with three of them - GXBank, AEON Bank and Boost Bank - already up and running. Ryt Bank and KAF Digital will follow soon. Ravi Kittane, Partner, Ernst & Young Consulting, assesses the impact of these 5 entities in shaping Malaysia's digital banking space.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following a viral video where someone questioned the police for detaining a person and checking their phone, IGP Tan Sri Razarudin Husain has clarified that this is allowed under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA) 1998. Criminal lawyer, Sreekant Pillai, helps us understand the legality of mobile phone inspections and what your rights are.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Absenteeism in schools has become a growing concern in Malaysia, with many students missing out on crucial educational opportunities. In response, the government is set to introduce a compulsory secondary education policy next month to reduce dropout rates and enhance the quality of education. Prof. Dr. Ismi Arif Ismail, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic and International at Universiti Putra Malaysia, shares his insights on this issue.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Biden administration plans to introduce new export restrictions on artificial intelligence chips under a three-tier system based on country, in addition to limiting AI computing power coming out of providers based in the US to other countries. How will these restrictions impact global supply chains and the growth of Malaysia’s digital economy? Farlina Said, Senior Analyst, ISIS Malaysia shares her insights with us.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The wildfires in Los Angeles and the floods in Malaysia have underscored the escalating effects of climate change on urban areas. What's needed to build climate resilience against future threats? We discuss this with Dr. Camelia May Li Kusumo of Taylor's University.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government plans to review proposals to amend digital-related laws to address online scams, including making telcos one of the entities responsible for combating such crimes, along with financial institutions. CF Fong, Executive Chairman of Malaysian cybersecurity firm LGMS Berhad share his views on how these law might look going forward.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US Supreme Court will soon considers the constitutionality of a law that would ban TikTok in the country if its China-based owner, ByteDance, doesn't sell off its American operation by January 19. Bradley Freeman, Professor of Creative Arts & Media, School of Arts, Sunway University helps us understand the issues at stake.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ASEAN has benefited from the US-China trade tensions as countries opt for a China-plus-one strategy to diversify their supply chains, but will this continue under a second Trump administration? We discuss the global trade landscape with economist Jayant Menon of the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Penang’s transportation future depends on the successful integration of the LRT system, Mutiara Line and the Pan Island Link 1 (PIL 1) highway. With the increasing traffic congestion, it’s crucial that both projects are developed to improve connectivity and create a more efficient, sustainable transport network. We discuss the impact of these developments with Transport Consultant Dr Rosli Azad.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Incoming US President Donald Trump has made headlines recently for reiterating his desire for the US to acquire Greenland and the Panama Canal, calling both critical to American national security. How serious is this rhetoric and what are the implications of this for partner countries? We discuss this with Dr. Kathryn Robison from the University of Sydney.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Licensed childcare centres nationwide have been facing rising costs especially when the new RM1,700 minimum wage policy starts on Feb 1st, adding on to already escalating financial commitments. These will of course be passed down to parents. Norsheila Abdullah, President of the Malaysia Association of Registered Early Child Care and Development shares her thoughts on the challenges to the industry.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto visited Malaysia for the first time since taking office, aiming to enhance trade ties. His leadership is focused on major projects, including Indonesia joining BRICS and relocating the capital to Nusantara. We discuss how these initiatives will shape Indonesia's future and its role on the global stage with Julia Lau, Senior Fellow and Co-coordinator, Indonesia Studies Programme, ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The semiconductor industry has become a driving force behind Malaysia’s economic growth, contributing an estimated 25% to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). However, 2025 is expected to be a volatile year, especially for the semiconductor sector, due to escalating US-China trade tensions and the incoming deregulation policies under American President Donald Trump. So, what is the outlook for local semiconductor players, and how should they navigate the expected turbulent times? Andrew Chan, Director of the Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA), tells us.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farmers’ organisations and civil society groups are urging the government to not table the Plant/Crop Seed Quality Bill in Parliament, citing the lack of consultations with stakeholders and the detrimental impact on small scale farmers. Nurfitri Amir Muhammad, the head coordinator of Forum Kedaulatan Makanan Malaysia, explain the issues.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders' Retreat witnessed the official agreement to establish the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which is expected to catalyse economic returns on both sides of the Causeway. We speak to Dr. Walter Theseira of the Singapore University of Social Sciences on the potential growth levers and challenges to overcome in making the SEZ a success.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest development in the media industry is the merger of Walt Disney’s Hulu Plus Live TV streaming service with the online sports-focused company FuboTV Inc, creating the second-largest digital pay-TV provider. Geetha Ranganathan, a senior analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, shares her insights on how streaming media might progress going forward.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil and gas contribute about 20% to Malaysia's GDP, but production in Peninsular Malaysia has declined, with more focus now on Sabah and Sarawak. As reserves decrease and imports rise, the government is pushing for a quicker shift to renewable energy. We delve into the impact and future outlook of the sector on industry players with Gordon Lim, Communication and Media Secretary, Petrol Dealers Association of Malaysia (PDAM).Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We speak to Dr Muhammad Mohan, President of Transparency International Malaysia about when the 2024 edition of the Corruption Perception Index might be released and how prolific graft cases from last year might affect our rankings in the index.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Madani Government launched the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2024-2028 in May as part of its bid to rank among the top 25 in the global Corruption Perception Index (CPI) within the decade. What is MACC's role in achieving this target? We speak to Norul Ashikin, Head of the Governance Policy Sector at MACC on the whole-of-government approach to combat corruption.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Malaysia and Singapore officially signed an agreement formalizing the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ) to boost collaboration on both sides of the Causeway. Which equities stand to benefit from the enhanced ties? We discuss expectations with Lim Sue Lin, Co-Head of Research at Maybank Investment Bank.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Phase 2 of the National Digital Network, JENDELA, is set to be launched to improve 4G connectivity nationwide. However, this initiative has been facing mounting criticisms for its delays and inefficiencies since it was initiated in 2021. Dr Rachel Gong, Deputy Director of Research at Khazanah Research Institute, helps us understand the challenges surrounding JENDELA and Malaysia's digital strategy.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the past month or so, South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol, who had attempted to impose martial law, was impeached with a warrant subsequently issued for his arrest but was thwarted. PM Han Duck-soo was then appointed acting president but was also impeached almost immediately after. William Pesek, a columnist at Nikkei Asia helps shed some light into what is happening in South Korea.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jailed former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak is now a step closer to serving the rest of his sentence under house arrest, after the Court of Appeal allowed his judicial review application related to a royal addendum. Criminal lawyer, Goh Cia Yee, explains what the implications of this decision might be as well as how a house arrest might work when there are no provisions for this in Malaysian law.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PUSPAKOM, the sole provider of vehicle inspection services for over three decades, is back in the news with four of its officers under investigation for approving vehicles that do not meet safety standards, putting lives at risk. Transport consultant, Wan Agyl Wan Hassan, shares his insights into how vehicle inspections can be improved especially with PUSPAKOM's monopoly ending and at least 10 companies applying to provide these services.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bitcoin has rallied 42% since the US presidential election in early November which saw Donald Trump win. Since then, the coin has hit an all-time of US$107,000. Andy Baehr, Managing Director and Head of Product at CoinDesk Indices, talks about what we can expect as the pro-crypto Trump officially moves into the White House.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although economic indicators appear positive going into 2025, SMEs are not fully convinced that this will translate to better business this year. We do a channel check with Chin Chee Seong of the SME Association of Malaysia about the headwinds concerning SMEs in the new year.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia is taking on the role of 2025 ASEAN Chair at a time of uncertainty over geopolitical dynamics with an incoming Trump presidency. How should Malaysia position itself as the leader in tackling regional challenges? Analyst Bunn Nagara weighs issues that should be prioritised.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Data from the Statistics Department in 2023 have revealed that nearly 98% of P-hailing and E-hailing workers were youths aged 15 to 30. Another set of data from Statista, show the value of the online ride-hailing and food delivery market in Southeast Asia trebling by this year. Jose Rizal, Chief Activist of the Malaysian eHailing Association (GEM), shares his thoughts on where Malaysia stands.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The equity performance of ASEAN was a tale of two halves with Singapore and Malaysia both ending 2024 on a strong note whilst the laggards were Thailand and Indonesia. Andrew San, Head of EM Equities, Amundi Malaysia tells us his outlook for 2025 and what investment strategy we should adopt to outperform.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Unity Government saw a 2024 that has experienced both momentum and hurdles in 2024 amid public dissatisfaction over economic measures like subsidy cuts and the controversial partial pardon granted to Datuk Seri Najib Razak. Meanwhile, the opposition Perikatan Nasional has struggled to maintain a united front. Dr Syaza Shukri, Associate Professor, International Islamic University of Malaysia shares her thoughts as well as what she thinks 2025 might bring.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chinese equity markets started the year on a lackluster note albeit there was a remarkable turnaround in September when the government issued a bevy of fiscal support. However by the last quarter of the year, Chinese equities have returned half of September's 35% gain and remained in a tight trading range. What then can we expect in 2025? Yip Kah Ming, Assistant Portfolio Manager, AHAM Capital tells us.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two rallies are set to be held outside Menara Kinabalu on New Year's Eve following allegations of corruption involving the state's chief minister and 7 lawmakers. One rally is calling for more anti-corruption action and the other is in support of the chief minister. Dr Oh Ei Sun, Principal Adviser, Pacific Research Centre, shares his analysis on Sabah politics with state elections due to be held next year.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore is the sleeper hit amongst Asean markets, up 16% on a year to date basis. We ask Thilan Wickramasinghe, Head of Research, Singapore and Regional Head of Financials, Maybank Investment Bank as to why the city state has rallied, will this strong outperformance continue and what stocks will outperform in 2025.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s agricultural self-sufficiency came under the spotlight this year given the shortage in locally produced rice. How is the Madani Government responding to the challenges of managing a ballooning food imports bill and ensuring adequate agricultural yield? We discuss this with food security expert Prof. Datin Paduka Fatimah Arshad of Universiti Putra Malaysia.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Palm oil remains the most widely consumed vegetable oil in the world which has seen strong price momentum in 2024. We ask Alvin Tai, Global Agriculture Analyst, Bloomberg Intelligence what explains this price trend and more importantly what is the outlook for 2025 despite the headwinds.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Under the National Energy Transition Roadmap or NETR, Malaysia plans to achieve 70% renewable energy capacity by 2040. How far have we progressed towards that path this year, and can global momentum for renewable energy be sustained under the incoming Trump presidency? We review the year in energy with Dhana Raj Markandu of ISIS Malaysia.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With 2024, eventually seeing challenges for the transportation sector - both aviation and maritime - despite positive expectations when the year began, what fortunes will 2025 bring? Ahmad Maghfur Usman, Equity Analyst at Nomura Malaysia, talks about some of the factors that had played a part in the sector's performance this year and what his expectations will be next year.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since the first meeting on the establishment of the Malaysian Media Council after GE14 in 2018, the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) Bill 2024 is now expected to be tabled for a second reading in February next year, nearly 5 years on. Wathshlah Naidu, Executive Director of the Centre for Independent Journalism, talks about how to make an imperfect bill as perfect as possible.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The tech sector has boomed this year driven by investor exuberance over AI tech, with the Magnificent 7 dominating the equity markets. Will this momentum be sustained in the new year, when variables change under a second Trump administration? We get analysis from Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Bank Negara Malaysia as the financial regulator for the insurance sector announced interim measures to limit the hike in insurance premiums resulting from medical inflation. While broadly welcome by stakeholders, the announcement is but a temporary band aid for what ails healthcare financing. What policies need to be considered to address the issue more holistically? We discuss this with Azrul Mohd Khalib of the Galen Centre.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Chinese equity markets started on a soft note in 2024 until a raft of stimulus measures were announced in mid-September, resulting in a 35% jump. But as markets normalised and are now only around 14% up on a year-to-date basis, Yu Junqiang, Acting Head of Equity, Hong Leong Asset Management, shares his insights on what we can expect in 2025.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Malaysian public healthcare system is at its breaking point, with medical staff overstretched and burnt out due to the various demands on their time and expertise without commensurate reward. What policy measures are needed to resolve the long-term crisis in public sector healthcare staffing? We discuss a proposal to introduce a rotational system in medical placement and other recommendations with Dr. Timothy Cheng of the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA).Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Korean markets have had a dismal 2024, as the country’s benchmark stock index, the Kospi, has lost over 9% on year-to-date basis making one of the worst performing main exchange in Asia. This was made worse by the recent declaration of martial law which was rescinded. Marvin Chen, Senior Asia Equity Strategist at Bloomberg Intelligence tells us if it's time to bottom fish or will that perennial Korean discount continue.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.