Morning Brief

The 15th Parliament reconvened for its first meeting of the third session on Monday, with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim delivering his inaugural royal address. What were the key takeaways and how does this set the tone for this sitting's parliamentary proceedings? Political scientist Dr. Syaza Syukri of UIA discusses the expectations for parliament and the Madani government.Image Credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The legal fraternity is convening in Sabah this week for the Borneo Rainforest Law Conference 2024, spotlighting issues related to environmental conservation. As rising climate change risk underscores the importance of conserving the environment, are Malaysia’s environmental laws sufficient to meet these challenges and how can our legal framework be strengthened? We get recommendations from lawyer Kwong Chiew Ee of the Bar Council Environment and Climate Change Committee.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Japanese contradiction is leaving many observers scratching their heads: despite its economy falling into a technical recession and weak economic data, the stock market has never been stronger with the Nikkei surpassing 1989 highs. What explains the dissonance between markets and the economy? We ask economist Norihiro Yamaguchi from Oxford Economics for his analysis.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 1st of March will see the sales and services tax (SST) rate rising from 6 to 8%. With two days to go, the government has announced an expansion in the scope of SST to include most categories of maintenance and repair jobs. We ask Alan Chung, Senior Executive Director of Indirect Tax and Transfer Pricing Practices, Grant Thornton Malaysia to clarify the implications of this amendment on SST, and if there has been enough transparency.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US-China trade tensions are showing no signs of abating. And the rivalry between the two major powers are putting pressure on the smaller nations, particularly in Southeast Asia. We will be speaking to Chong Ja Ian, Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, National University of Singapore on how Malaysia and other nations can leverage on this position amid the contending narratives. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia is emerging as a major hub for higher education with the establishment of foreign university branch campuses, many ranked in the top 100 globally. How do these international branch campuses (IBC) impact the academic landscape? We speak to Dr. Sharifah Munirah Alatas, Independent Scholar and Deputy Chair of the Malaysian Academic Movement (GERAK) on the pros and cons of the burgeoning presence of foreign universities in the market.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asia is home to around 63% of the world’s commercial laying hens, but the vast majority of them are confined to battery cages. How do different countries stack-up in terms of encouraging cage-free practices and regulating for better welfare conditions in the poultry industry? We get insights from the latest Asia Cage-Free Benchmark report with Jonathon Tree of the Environment & Animal Society of Taiwan.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump has secured another Republican nomination to be the GOP candidate for president after winning the South Carolina primary. However, the only contender left, Nikki Haley, isn't giving up. John S Jackson, Visiting Professor at Southern Illinois University, analyses if the former South Carolina governor still stands a chance and what a Trump-Biden rematch might look like.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Russia may have invaded Ukraine on Feb 24, 2022, but the war really started ten years ago in 2014, with the annexation of Crimea. Denys Mykhailiuk, Chargé d'Affaires at the Ukrainian Embassy in Malaysia talks to us about his countrymen's fight to expel Russian troops and take back its territory, as military aid from its western allies begin to hit roadblocks.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently a restaurant chain came under fire for deducting salaries due to medical leave taken or frequent visits to the washrooms during working hours. Sunitha Ruthram, Advocate & Solicitor of Sunitha Ruthram & Co tells us what are the rights of the employees under the Act and what are the remedial actions they can take if those rights are infringed on.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government is expected to table a raft of amendments to the constitution on the issue of citizenship, which civil society and human rights observers criticise will exacerbate the issue of statelessness in the country. We speak to Dr. Farah Nini Dusuki, Children's Commissioner of SUHAKAM about the implications of these proposals for vulnerable groups such as foundlings and abandoned children.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore’s Budget 2024 recently unveiled saw a renewed focus on skills training and income support. What are the some of the measures to emulate here in Malaysia to address the current skill gaps we have. Anthony Raja Devadoss, Country Managing Director at Korn Ferry Malaysia gives us his suggestions.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nurses in Malaysia are frequently described as overworked, underpaid, and undervalued. But in countries like Singapore, long-term retention incentive schemes are being introduced for both local and foreign nurses in the public healthcare system. Dr. Timothy Cheng, Vice Chairman, Malaysian Medical Association or SCHOMOS breaks down why this might amplify brain drain, and how to nurse working conditions to better health.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Economist Intelligence Unit released their annual democracy index which provides a snapshot of the state of democracy in 165 countries and 2 territories. This year’s report title which is “AGE of Conflict” is not an auspicious one but aptly describes the current state with Wars in Ukraine and Gaza still raging with no end to the cycle of violence. We speak to Sumedha Dasgupta, Senior Analyst at EIU to find out how Malaysia ranks and is the world becoming more or less democratic.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We delve into how far Sarawak has come and the economic potential that lies ahead with Adam Mohamed Rahim, Equity Research Analyst, RHB Research as the Land of the Hornbills aims to achieve a GDP of 282 billion ringgit by 2030, double of the value achieved in 2023.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even with its relaunch last December through a collaboration with Tokopedia, TikTok Shop remains under regulatory scrutiny in Indonesia. The platform's allowance of direct transactions on social media continues to breach local regulations. Nathan Naidu, Equity Research Analyst, Bloomberg Intelligence shares his insights into the implications of this regulatory scrutiny and potential measures to mitigate its impact on their business.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How should regulating misinformation and protecting media freedoms be balanced, especially in social and digital media? The new code of ethics for journalists was launched this week, sparking concerns over the generic wording which could grant unwarranted powers to the Communications Ministry. We get reactions from media expert Dr. Benjamin Loh of Taylor's University.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Israel-Palestine issue is in the spotlight again this week, as hearings on the legality of Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories run from February 19th to 26th at the International Court of Justice. We discuss what to expect from the proceedings with Juliette McIntyre, Law Lecturer, University of South Australia, and whether a ruling can have any material impact on the ground.Image credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ringgit continues to slide against the USD despite the strength of the economy inching perilously close to the all time low seen during the Asian Financial crisis in 1998. We explore reasons for this two decade decline and what should be done to restore the Ringgit's fortunes with P Gunasegaram, independent business writer.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The widespread availability of unregistered medical devices, notably on e-commerce platforms, is a significant concern for public health and safety. These products may lack adherence to essential quality and safety standards, potentially posing health risks to its users. Dr. Muralitharan Paramasua, CEO, Medical Device Authority shares his insights into these hazards and how they are addressing this issue.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Historically, markets do well in the Year of the Dragon. Could we expect similar trend in 2024? Francis Tan, Investment Strategist at UOB shares his views whilst weighing in on how the world’s two largest economies; US and China will fare.Wealth Advice That Matters is brought to you by UOB Privilege Banking. Visit www.uob.com.my/bfm to find out more about upcoming topics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sustainable fuels are paramount for the aviation space amid the green transition. Most recently, Singapore has announced an initiative mandating that its flights use at least 1% sustainable aviation fuel by 2026. We get comments from Shantanu Gangakhedkar, Aviation Consultant, Frost & Sullivan, who will also weigh in on the aviation industry’s postpandemic recovery status.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite a striking 47.3% surge in domestic tourism spending during the Lunar New Year Holidays totalling a substantial 632.7 billion yuan or 87.96 billion dollars, is the Chinese economy on track to recovery? Tommy Xie, Head of Asia Macro Research at OCBC Bank tells us how views whilst weighing in what are the other levers the government can pull to revive the economy and restore confidence.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Indian farmers won a major coup in 2021 when long-running mass protests led to the withdrawal of controversial agricultural laws.  Ahead of elections in April and May, why are Indian farmers taking to the streets again? We speak to RN Bhaskar, contributing editor of The Free Press Journal for his take on what is spurring the latest protests.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Amjad Rabi, a visiting expert at the Social Wellbeing Research Centre with Universiti Malaya, has proposed several measures to address how the Madani government could proceed with its subsidy rationalisation plans. He takes us through some of his suggestions that include a package of cash assistance in the form of periodic payments to vulnerable groups but is against poverty targeting which tends to stigmatise the poor.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bank Negara Malaysia on Friday announced that Malaysia’s GDP expanded 3.0% yoy in 4Q23, lower than reported by Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) advanced GDP estimates and also consensus figures of 3.4%. Firdaos Rosli, Chief Economist of Ambank Group explains this disappointing figure and what this means for growth in 2024.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, the government announced plans to introduce a new category of white rice known as Beras Putih Malaysia Madani to replace the existing local and imported categories. The Minister of Agriculture has since clarified that no final decision has been made - but would the Madani white rice create more problems than it resolves? We speak to Prof. Dr. Fatimah Arshad of UPM to better understand the flaws in our rice agricultural industry.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore has unveiled a comprehensive Budget plan for 2024 amounting to S$131.4 billion, constituting roughly 18% of its GDP. This is also 0.5% more than what was set aside for 2023. Khoon Goh, Head of Asia Research, ANZ Bank, helps us unpack what the different focus points are in this latest plan.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The recent property scam case involving the prominent Puthucheary family in Johor is a cautionary tale to remain vigilant against fraudsters, including those with legitimate real estate credentials. We speak to Tan Kian Aun, President of the Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents (MIEA) on how prospective property buyers or sellers can safeguard against unscrupulous actors. More information available at lppeh.gov.my and miea.com.my. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peace remains elusive with tensions in the Middle East showing no signs of de-escalation. Over the past weekend, the US military has launched dozens of airstrikes on targets in Iraq, Syria and Yemen. We speak to Dr. Asif Shuja, Director of GeoPo Consult, a geopolitics management consultancy based in Dubai for his outlook on the ongoing tensions in the region.Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Indonesian voters have spoken - unofficial results indicate that defence minister Prabowo Subianto has won the presidential election by a comfortable margin. What does this mean for the policy direction of the country? We get colour and analysis from journalist Erin Cook who’s on the ground in Jakarta.Image credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently, Malaysian hoteliers have warned that next month's increase in the Sales & Services Tax (SST) from 6% to 8% will likely result in room rates going up by between 10% and 30%. Shaharuddin Saaid, Executive Director of the Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners (MAHO), explains what the challenges are for the industry which has yet to recover to pre-pandemic.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Lunar New Year is China's second without Covid restrictions since the pandemic and official data have revealed that nearly 274 million passenger trips were handled by the country's transport sector on the second day of the dragon year, up 23% from last year. Angela Han Lee, Senior Equity Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence also breaks down how this impacted Macau's recovering gaming sector.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump’s antipathy towards NATO was a well-known feature of his presidency. What would his return to the top job mean for the security alliance? We discuss Trump’s NATO policy and updates on the war in Ukraine with security analyst Alexey Muraviev of Curtin University.Image credit: Alexandros Michailidis / Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tensions between Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and DAP national chairman Lim Guan Eng have started to surface. Will this impact DAP nationwide or is it just a state issue. Dr. Oh Ei Sun, Principal Adviser, Pacific Research Centre gives us his view and if the recent reduction in sentence and fine of Datuk Seri Najib Razak has caused dissatisfaction among its grassroot supporters.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The recent surge in popularity of energy sticks - nasal inhalers marketed as energy boosting health products - have become a cause for urgent concern. Promoted to minors under taglines such as ‘Snort first, then head to school’, health experts have cautioned they may carry some of the health risks that vapes do. We speak to NV Subbarow, Senior Education Officer, Consumers Association of Penang or CAP for his comments.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elections for the world's 3rd largest democracy takes place on 14 February. We examine the legacy left behind by President Jokowi - is he really the king maker in these elections? Erin Cook, a journalist based in Jakarta gives us her views and if it is a foregone conclusion that Prabowo Subianto will emerge victorious.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last Friday the S&P 500 hit record highs on the back of investor enthusiasm over tech earnings and in anticipation of Fed rate cuts. Does this tech rally continue to have legs, or is there a reality check ahead? We discuss trends affecting US tech equities with Santosh Rao, Technology Analyst & Head of Research at Manhattan Venture Partners.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following the disclosure of the contents of a letter by Tan Sri Shafee Abdullah, the lawyer for convicted former PM Datuk Seri Najib Razak, which purportedly detailed the process in which the decision was made by the Pardons Board, debates have been raging. Arinah Najwa Ahmad Said, Director at BowerGroup Asia breaks down how these developments might affect Umno as well as the Madani government.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Up to 2.4 million vehicles a day are expected on roads this Chinese New Year, as the exodus from city to hometown begins. How can we quell rising road accidents and fatalities? Professor Dr Kulanthayan K.C. Mani, Head of Putra Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion Group, Universiti Putra Malaysia shares his advice for drivers to keep safe this festive season.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With malware scams posing serious threats to user privacy, Google has taken action by launching a trial in Singapore to block sideloading i.e. installations from unverified sources on Android devices. We discuss the efficacy of this feature and whether its implementation should be considered in Malaysia with cybersecurity expert CF Fong. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, New York Community Bank (NYCB) revealed losses of USD$252 million in the fourth quarter due to exposure to the commercial real estate market. Could there be a contagion effect to other regional banks, reminiscent of the 2023 collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank? We discuss the implications with Herman Chan with Bloomberg Intelligence.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The yield of Malaysian planters has been on a downward trend due to a myriad of factors. We explore how to revitalise this sector with Khor Yu Leng, economist at Segi Enam Advisors as it is critical Malaysia maintain its edge as a leading producer of CPO.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Coalition for Clean & Fair Elections has weighed in on the Pardons Board's decision to commute the prison sentence and fine of convicted felon and former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak. It is concerned about the potential repercussions on public trust in the judiciary. Bersih chairman Faisal Abdul Aziz gives us an overview about what Malaysians need to be aware of regarding this issue.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank of Australia recently kept its cash rate target at 4.35% at its first meeting of 2024, as inflation appears to be under control. Canberra also plans to introduce a taxation schedule designed to be more progressive and bring better economic growth down under. Sean Langcake, Head of Macroeconomic Forecasting at Oxford Economics shares his outlook for the Australian economy for the rest of this year.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ringgit has been on a downward trend against the US Dollar since the Asian Financial Crisis. Julia Goh, senior economist at UOB Malaysia gives her views on what measures should be adopted to see an appreciation of the currency.Wealth Advice That Matters is brought to you by UOB Privilege Banking. Visit www.uob.com.my/bfm to find out more about upcoming topics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following the proposal for a Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, there has now been a proposal to transform the Greater Klang Valley into a special economic zone as well. The SEZ plan aims to reposition the region for larger investment inflows. Might its impact be marginal or momentous?  Dr Geoffrey Williams, Economist & Professor, Malaysia University of Science and Technology makes a case for the former.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government is considering a proposal permitting international graduates to work in Malaysia to address talent shortages, particularly in engineering and technical fields. However, there are concerns that this could harm opportunities for locals and hinder the country's investment in skilled graduates. Datuk William Ng, Chairman of Small and Medium Enterprises Association shares insights on how this could impact the SME sector.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bank of Thailand is expected to stand pat on its interest rates later today as the embattled Thai economy recorded its fourth consecutive month of negative inflation in January. Thai Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin has called for coordinated fiscal and monetary policy to revive the struggling economy. Poon Panichpibool, Markets Strategist, Krung Thai Bank provides some insights on recent developments surrounding the Thai economy.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last Friday, the Pardons Board reduced Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s prison sentence and fine. While this has left numerous unresolved questions lingering, criticism has been directed at both the prime minister and political parties within the unity government questioning their commitment to stamping out corruption. Ong Kian Ming, former Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI) and member of DAP gives us his views on the ramifications of this especially among loyal DAP supporters.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.