Morning Brief

Bank Negara maintained the overnight policy rate at 3.0% following its first Monetary Policy Committee meeting of 2024, meaning no change since May 2023. Ray Choy, Chief Economist at Malaysian Rating Corporation analyses how this might affect the FBM-KLCI, the value of the ringgit and the overall Malaysian economy.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister has called for an end to the "old bureaucracy" between the Ministry of Higher Education and the nation's public universities. Will this spark a paradigm shift in the governance of higher education? We speak to academic Dr. Sharifah Munirah Alatas about much-needed reforms to foster the independence and autonomy of public HEIs.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although it has been 3 weeks since the launch of PADU, registration for the database has been underwhelming, standing at some 4.5% of the targeted number. What accounts for the tepid response? Tai Zee Kin, a Digital Political Communications Consultant, imparts insights on how to enhance the effectiveness of the government's messaging strategy.Image credit: BernamaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The AI boom in 2023 led to a rebound in US stocks, especially for the tech-heavy Nasdaq. Meanwhile, the concept of ESG has been picking up pace in recent years and investments are expected to continue to soar. Abel Lim, Executive Director and Head of Wealth Management Advisory and Strategy at UOB shares his perspective on these two themes and how will they impact investment strategies.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.

There were initial expectations that the reign of King Dollar would come to an end as the Federal Reserve looked set to cut rates as early as March. However that prognosis is less certain as macroeconomic data point to inflation remaining stubbornly high while Fed minutes confirm that the  timing of the cuts is hard to forecast. What then is the outlook of the US dollar and other major currencies? Saktiandi Supaat, Head of FX Research, Global Markets, Maybank Group tells us.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mohamad Safiq Rosli was the first person to be charged under Malaysia’s anti-stalking law for stalking a woman for 8 years. A Magistrate’s Court subsequently declared that he was of unsound mind when committing the crime and ordered him to be detained at a psychiatric facility at the Sultan of Selangor’s pleasure. Criminal lawyer Sreekant Pillai explains the details of this case and its implications going forward.Image credit: BernamaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The International Energy Agency has raised its 2024 global oil demand growth forecast to 1.24 million barrels per day, the third consecutive upward adjustment in recent months. Fernando Valle, a Senior Equity Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence breaks down the factors at play including geopolitics, demand and even the climate, that might impact prices this year.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The world’s fourth most populous country, Indonesia, is going to the polls on February 14th and the presidential race is heating up among the three main candidates. What are the factors that could influence the outcome of these elections? We get analysis from political scientist Dr. Ahmad Rizky M. Umar of Queensland University.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How has the Malaysian shipping industry been impacted by the ongoing tensions in the Red Sea? We hear from Datuk Ruben Gnanalingam, Group Managing Director of Westport on the spillover effects, including whether we'll see a surge in freight rates. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, former Singapore Transport Minister S. Iswaran was charged with 27 counts of corruption, the latest in a series of scandals that have rocked the island republic since 2023. We’ll speak to James Gomez, Regional Director at the Asia Centre to discuss the implications of the recent developments for Singapore’s political landscape in light of the leadership handover later this year.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Independent Police Conduct Commission has already seen five out of seven members appointed, confirming that the Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission, which the Pakatan Harapan administration tabled in 2019, has been replaced. Edmund Bon, a lawyer at Amer Bon Advocates, compares the differences in how the IPCC and the IPCMC can help put a stop to police misconduct incidences which have been on the rise recently.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak continues to draw attention even behind bars. Having so far served 17 months of his 12-year prison sentence for charges pertaining to 1MDB-linked SRC International, there is speculation that his royal pardon could be decided by the end of this month. Independent business writer P. Gunasegaram, makes the case why this would be disastrous for the country.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grab Malaysia recently announced a restructuring of its delivery fee and bonus framework, effective last Tuesday. However, this decision has been met with dissatisfaction among certain riders, primarily due to the reduction in wage fees. Consequently, a group of riders is considering a boycott as a visible expression of their disagreement. Bryan Ng Yih Miin, Advisor to Persatuan Perpaduan Rakan Penghantar Malaysia shares his insights on the potential impact of the revised structures on the affected e-hailing riders.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bursa Malaysia started the year on a much-welcomed positive note; but in recent days, selected counters have seen such strong selling pressure that they hit limit down each successive session. This negative sentiment has spread to the broader market with losers outnumbering gainers on a ratio of 885 to 218 stocks. We check in with Business Commentator, Pankaj C Kumar to understand why this is happening, and can more be done by the regulators to ensure orderly trading?Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia has imposed a freeze on new foreign worker recruitment, affecting labour-intensive industries grappling with manpower shortages, despite there currently being 2 million migrant workers distributed across five sectors. Adrian Pereira, Executive Director at the North South Initiative talks to us about how he thinks the country can address these issues.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does 2024 look like for Malaysia's automotive industry, after last year saw total industry volume for sales of new motor vehicles increased 11% year-on-year to nearly 800,000 units, a second consecutive annual all-time high? We find out from Daniel Fernandez, Managing Editor of dsf.my.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Data released yesterday showed that China’s 2023 GDP grew by 5.2% y-o-y, in line with government’s estimates but disappointing market expectations for recovery. Gary Ng of Natixis analyses the latest economic data with us, and tells us if he is optimistic for the year ahead.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chronic weight management market is at an inflection point. Analysts have forecast that sales of weight-loss drugs could potentially hit 100 billion US dollars by 2030, buoyed by promising results in recent clinical trials. We speak to Michael Shah, Senior Equity Research Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence for insights into this growing market.  Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The legal fraternity convened in Putrajaya on Monday for the opening of the Legal Year 2024, and the Attorney General Datuk Ahmad Terrirudin Mohd Salleh raised eyebrows when he asserted that he is not constitutionally bound to provide reasons for prosecutorial decisions, such as the dropping of criminal charges. We get reactions to these comments from constitutional lawyer New Sin Yew, and also discuss whether the separation of the attorney general and public prosecutor roles could make a difference.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s been some progress on the proposed Singapore-KL High Speed Rail, with news emerging that seven local and international consortiums have submitted request for information proposals for the lucrative RM100 billion ringgit contract. Which companies are in the running and will this provide a catalyst for construction equities in Malaysia? We get views from Loong Chee Wei of Affin Hwang Investment Bank.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former President Donald Trump dominated the Iowa caucus on Monday, winning more than 50% of the vote share and solidifying his lead over rivals Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley. What does Iowa portend about the rest of the Republican presidential race? We get analysis on the outcome with political scientist John S. Jackson of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.Image credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Its early days yet for the FBMKLCI but its already one of the best performing markets in Asia with only Japan and Philippines doing better. We ask Simon Lim, Head of Equities at Hong Leong Asset Management if this trend will persist for the rest of the year and what sectors we should be paying attention to.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new capital gains tax officially came into force on January 1st this year, but it was recently brought to light that the actual scope of this new tax surpasses the initial impressions conveyed during the budget presentation. Soh Lian Seng, Head of Tax at KPMG tells us what are the other surprises in the rollout of this new tax and what have been the implications so far.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Conversations about a Fixed Term Parliament Act is regaining traction in political circles especially with rumours that MPs may be orchestrating another attempt to topple the Anwar Ibrahim government. Dr Wong Chin Huat, Political Scientist with Sunway University, explains the proposal and its impact to Malaysia's democratic and constitutional processes.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Africa created waves on the international stage when it recently brought a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice for genocide. Why does South Africa have legal standing to do so? For a better understanding of the proceedings at the ICJ and the workings of the international justice system, we speak to Juliette McIntyre, Law Lecturer at the University of South Australia.Image credit: EPA ImagesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

William Lai Ching-te, the Democratic Progressive Party candidate secured victory in Taiwan’s presidential polls over the weekend. The result signifies a continued distancing from Beijing's influence. Chong Ja Ian, Associate Professor at the National University of Singapore weighs in on the implications of the election outcomes.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The conflict in the Middle East sees no signs of easing with the recent airstrikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen by the US and some of its allies. Likewise, there is no concrete action pointing to a de-escalation of conflict in the Israel-Hamas war. We speak to Middle East expert Dr. James Dorsey for updates on the situation in the region.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia has imposed a windfall tax levy of 3% on palm oil prices above RM3000 for Peninsular Malaysia and RM3500 for East Malaysia since 1998. Industry players have made calls to the government to do away with this levy - what justifications are they putting forth? We speak with economist Khor Yu Leng of Segi Enam Advisors to find out what needs to be done for Malaysia to remain relevant in the palm oil supply chain.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, the home of Beruas MP Dato' Ngeh Koo Ham was torched in the wee hours of the morning, destroying three of his vehicles but thankfully, there were no injuries. Remember also that in July last year, lawyer-activist Siti Kasim found pipe bombs underneath her car. We speak to the Perak DAP leader himself about his experience, as police work hard to uncover the motive behind such attacks.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, the world was confronted with two aviation incidents involving Japan and Alaska Airlines, evoking widespread concern. These occurrences have prompted a thorough examination of safety protocols and procedures within the aviation industry. Shantanu Gangakhedkar, Aviation Consultant from Frost & Sullivan shares his insights on airline safety.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) approved exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that invest directly in Bitcoin, after more than a decade of opposition from the regulator. This is considered a watershed moment for the digital-asset industry. Sam Reynolds, senior reporter at Coindesk explains why and if this means that cryptocurrencies have gone mainstream.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia and Singapore on Thursday signed an MOU on a new Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone to enhance economic cooperation, while also boosting the cross-border flow of goods and people as well as developing a framework that will lead to a full-fledged agreement. We speak with Tan Sri Dr Sulaiman Mahbob, Chairman of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) on Malaysia’s trade initiatives and how we need to compete against rising ASEAN neighbours.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gabriel Attal has been appointed as France's new prime minister following the resignation of Élisabeth Borne after a 20-month stint. Peter McPhee, Emeritus Professor of French History at the University of Melbourne analyses what the future holds for the 34-year-old former Health and Education minister, who also once served as président Emmanuel Macron's spokesperson.Image credit: EPA ImagesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia invests significantly on public transport but issues faced by commuters such as punctuality, poor last-mile connectivity and expensive fares do not help build user confidence. Also, big investments are made towards station construction, but maintenance has often been lacking. We speak with transport expert Wan Agyl Wan Hassan to understand what Malaysia needs to create a better public transport system that users will appreciate.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There have been calls for Malaysia to work harder to be a green investment hub, even more so as we face strong competition from our ASEAN neighbours. One way is the reformation of the power sector to accommodate the potential export of renewable energy. We speak to Dr Renato Lima de Oliveira, Senior Fellow at Institute of Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) to understand what direction Malaysia needs to take as it pivots towards becoming a leader in sustainable development on a global scale.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2023 was a tale of two halves for the world's biggest economies, with the US and China markets diverging in sentiment. Will we see similar trends this year and how should investors recalibrate their portfolio in response? Francis Tan of UOB weighs in on investment strategies for 2024.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.

Indonesia has had strong relations with Malaysia throughout the years. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim even made his first foreign visit there upon assuming office. However, it has not always been smooth as there are long standing border issues that the two neighbours need to agree on. Thomas Daniel, Senior Fellow of ISIS Malaysia discusses the key issues, why has it taken so long and also the future of relations as Indonesia faces a presidential election.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia's oil and gas industry is a key pillar of the economy, making up approximately 20% of annual GDP. This year, the oil & gas, services and equipment, or OGSE industry anticipates a notable rise in capital expenditure, signalling positive growth prospects. Yet, attention is drawn to the Middle East, where potential conflict escalation could bring both uncertainties and potential advantages for oil and gas entities. Ts. Syed Saggaf Syed Ahmad, President of The Malaysian Oil, Gas & Energy Services Council (MOGSC) shares his analysis of the industry landscape for 2024.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government will be revising the guidelines on the appointment process for board members of Federal Statutory Bodies. Meanwhile, a new format for MPs and administrative officials to declare their assets will be tabled soon in a Cabinet meeting. Alissa Rode, Research Manager for Public Finance Unit, IDEAS shares her insights on whether these efforts will be able to foster better governance and transparency.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The past year or so saw the US dollar reign supreme as the Federal Reserve kept interest rates elevated, and geopolitical uncertainty encouraged people to keep the greenback as a safe haven. Luca Santos, a currency analyst at ACY Securities, shares his views on how other major currencies that didn't do so well, including the Japanese yen, the euro and the sterling pound might fare in 2024.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Malaysia property sector is forecast to grow by as much as 15% this year compared to 2023, thanks to a positive macroeconomic environment, supportive government policies, and a rise in investment inflows. Amy Wong Siew Fong, Executive Director of Research & Consultancy with Knight Frank Malaysia, shares her thoughts on where she thinks these areas of growth might be.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The headwinds of last year which includes geopolitical tensions and a slowdown in global growth, especially in China are likely to persist in 2024. So what is the outlook for mid-tier companies? Callum Chen, President of Malaysian Consortium of Mid-Tier Companies tells us whilst weighing in on what government policies will help their association members to thrive.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

E-Commerce giant Lazada recently retrenched a large number of staff at its Singaporean and Malaysian operations. This amidst tough competition in the e-commerce space as well as the streamlining of functions to remain agile and adapt to customer trends. We speak to Jianggan Li, CEO of Momentum Works to understand the implications of these layoffs to the sector and how they need to manoeuvre before more competitors enter the market.Image credit: Lazada.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Organisational consulting firm Korn Ferry has been in the business of talent for decades. Country Managing Director, Anthony Raja Devadoss shares with us his expectations of the job market, what sectors are hiring, why do companies engage their recruitment services despite the existence of digital platforms as well as what percentage increments employees should look out for.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The stage is set for Taiwan's presidential election on January 13, that is expected to shape future ties between the self-ruled island and mainland China. Three candidates will vie for the post - the Beijing-friendly Kuomintang, the more centre-left and US-friendly Democratic Progressive Party and the smaller Taiwan’s People Party. Brian Hioe, Co-Founding Editor of New Bloom Magazine shares his thoughts.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia may be blessed with abundant water resources but supply disruptions continue to occur as a result of ageing infrastructure, pollution and sometimes bad management. Datuk Abdul Kadir Mohd Din, immediate past president of the Malaysian Water Association, explains how we can better manage this natural resource moving forward.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the Sheraton Move, the Dubai Move and now the Chow Kit Move, Members of Parliament from the Opposition parties are working hard to give the impression that they have the numbers to topple Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Unity Government. We speak with Dr Azmi Hassan, Senior Fellow with Nusantara Academy of Strategic Research to understand the implications of these actions and whether it is possible even with the Anti Hopping Law.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

F&B players in the country continue to grapple with rising cost of living and evolving consumer preferences. Over the last few weeks we have seen boycotts of several international franchises due to affiliation with Israel. Jeremy Lim, Vice-President & Media Liaisons, Persatuan Pemilik Restoran & Bistro shares with us how the industry is doing.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asian economies sailed through a volatile year in 2023 with plenty of challenges abound. Will we see an economic bounceback amid lacklustre growth and geopolitical uncertainties? We discuss the regional outlook with Lavanya Venkateswaran of OCBC Bank. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A prospective legislative change is on the horizon in Malaysia, as the government mulls over the introduction of a law to regulate the size of companies resulting from mergers. It will be the third important aspect of competition laws in the country. We examine the goals and possible outcomes of this potential policy alongside Kwan Will Sen, Partner of Lim Chee Wee Partnership.Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.