Morning Brief

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.

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.