Morning Brief

According to Fitch Solutions, the global rice market is heading towards a record shortfall this year. What factors underpin these projections and what does this mean for the global 3.5 billion rice consumers? We discuss the trends with Priyanka Kishore of IMA Asia.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On World Press Freedom Day, we check in with founder and managing director of our own station, Malek Ali to ask the questions about editorial freedom and the challenge of operating an independent radio in a digital age.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, rumours were ablaze that certain BN MP's were going to join PN to topple the government. Dr Azmil Tayeb, Political Scientist, Universiti Sains Malaysia tells us if there was any truth to this. He also tells us the chances of sacked UMNO members who may or may not run on the opposition ticket at the upcoming state elections.Image by: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It seems like every other month, company databases are being breached and our personal details are sold on the dark web. Is our PDPA Act strong enough or is this an enforcement issue of the existing laws? Kenny Lam, Partner, RDS Law, joins us to share his thoughts on the state of cyber security and data protection in the country.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Luxury sector continues to be recession proof for the world’s richest person, LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault. And with China reopening, will the good times continue to roll or will the boom end? Deborah Aitken, Senior Equity Analyst for Global Luxury Goods Bloomberg Intelligence, gives us her insights on the industry moving forward.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Regional banks in the US play a significant role in the economy serving small town communities which went unnoticed until the failure of SVB bank. Herman Chan, senior analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence tells us the health of these regional banks and if there should be regulatory changes.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Penang South Islands reclamation project recently received Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval from the Department of Environment, to the dismay of fishing community associations and environmental activists who have long protested the mega development. We speak to Mageswari Sangaralingam of Sahabat Alam Malaysia on the implications of the project for marine biodiversity.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

India is set to overtake China as the world’s most populous country, reaching 1.43 billion people by the end of the month. We discuss what these demographic shifts mean for policymakers with Sanghmitra Singh from the Population Foundation of India.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2016 Companies Act was arguably a game changer for Malaysian standards of corporate governance, demanding more accountability from company directors and specifying their duties. But what are the standards expected to ensure good corporate standards?Ranjit Singh, founding partner of Ranjit Singh & Yeoh tells us.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Continuing our two part episode focusing on scams, Ooi Beng Cheang of FPAM comes on the show again this time to talk about online scams. He shares tips on how to spot online phishing scams, what to do when you're caught in one and what you can do if you fall for one.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Joe Biden has officially declared that he is running for re-election in 2024, setting up a potential showdown with erstwhile rival Donald Trump. We discuss the variables in the presidential race with Prof. Robert Shapiro of Columbia University.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Asian central banks begin to press pause on rate hikes while the Fed continues its tightening cycle, what effect would this have on FX trends? We discuss the outlook for Asia-Pacific currencies with Stephen Chiu of Bloomberg Intelligence.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the 15th straight year, the Economist Intelligence Unit has named Singapore as the world’s leading business environment in its annual Best Place to do Business Report, and that it will hold that position for the next 5 years as well. What sets Singapore apart from other nations? Where is Malaysia? Cheah Wen Chong, an analyst at the EIU, discusses what is in the report.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The list of ingredients in many a packaged food product frequently reads like a chemistry textbook. In light of Taiwan's health authorities detecting excessive levels of a carcinogenic substance in 2 instant noodle brands - one from Malaysia and the other from Indonesia - it is good to know what is safe and what isn't to eat. Dr Chai Lay Ching, Associate Professor at the Institute of Biological Sciences, Universiti Malaya, takes us through how authorities sift through the different chemicals inevitably found in foodstuff.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intellectual property isn’t always a priority for businesses, be it small or big. Yet, as Malaysia moves toward a knowledge driven economy, it should be essential. Gerald Peter Samuel, Director at Marks & Clerk explains what IP is and the process involved.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Datuk Ramanan Ramakrishnan, the newly-appointed committee chairman Mitra has said that the agency will undergo a comprehensive audit to clean up its accounts after being mired in controversy with claims that millions had been syphoned out since its establishment.Prof Dr P Ramasamy, Perai assemblyperson and Penang deputy chief minister II tells us what reforms needs to be in place to ensure that it does indeed serve the needy Indian community with accountability.Image credit: TwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fighting broke out on 15 April between 2 Generals, previous allies that has since caused the deaths of more than 400 and thousands fleeing the country. David H. Shinn, Adjunct Professor, Elliott School of International Affairs at the George Washington University gives us the reasons for this war, the power brokers involved, the repercussions it has on Sub-Saharan Africa and can peace be achieved?Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In conjunction with World Malaria Day, we speak to Dr Paul Divis, Director of Malaria Research Centre at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) on efforts to eliminate malaria.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently headlines have been dominated by the bankruptcy of a tycoon. We separate fact from fiction as to the laws regarding bankruptcy with Christopher Guo, Legal Associate at Kenny Tan & Co.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We discuss the progress and developments on Malaysia’s 5G roll-out, including speculation that the government could introduce a second wholesale network with Alex Wong of tech news portal Soya Cincau.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Menu Rahmah is an initiative aimed at providing affordable meals, especially the B40 group at 5 ringgit a meal. Great for consumers but what about F&B players? Abdul Mukthahir Ibrahim, Vice President of Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association tells us their side of this initiative.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We discuss the implications of the online leaks of classified US intelligence information on the war in Ukraine and the current progress of the Russia-Ukraine conflict with Dr. Alexey Muraviev of Curtin University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maybank investment bank recently released their 1st Quarter ESG report. We speak to its author Anand Pathmakanthan, who is also the regional head of research at Maybank Investment Banking Group for the methodology behind it and what companies meet that criteria.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Federal Court dismissed an appeal by DBKL and 3 others to reinstate the development order over a certain part of Taman Rimba Kiara, upholding the 2021 Court of Appeal ruling. What does this judgement then mean for controversial development projects in Kuala Lumpur, and what does it say about the protection of already scarce public spaces? Alliff Benjamin Suhaimi of Messrs Thomas Philip, which represented the TTDI residents explains the implications.Image credit: Low Yen Ying / EdgePropSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China’s GDP grew more than expected in the first quarter, increasing by 4.5% on-year. What does this bode for its economic trajectory for the rest of the year? We get analysis from Gary Ng, APAC economist with Natixis.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The public social media squabble between Transport Minister Anthony Loke and his predecessor Dato’ Sri Wee Ka Siong has put the spotlight on transport links to East Malaysia. We speak to transportation consultant Khair Mirza of Integral Capital on the mechanics of airfare pricing and the viability of state-owned airlines.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the weekend, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida escaped unhurt after an explosive device was thrown at him at a campaign event. The incident echoed the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe less than a year ago and raises questions about security concerns ahead of the G7 Summit. We discuss domestic reactions to the incident and political dynamics ahead of local elections with Tokyo-based journalist William Pesek.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia is always in the headlines for the wrong reasons over migrant worker issues from how they are recruited, to how we treat them to and the middlemen involved. Adrian Pereira, Executive Director, North South Initiative gives us the hard honest truth on the existing system and what changes must be made.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new Covid Variant which has been detected in 33 countries has now been found in Malaysia too. Dr Vinod Balasubramaniam, Leader, Infection and Immunity Research Strength, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences at Monash University Malaysia tells us how virulent and deadly this variant is. Whilst reminding us that we still need to keep the SOPs especially as Hari Raya is just round the corner.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia aims to achieve 40% renewable energy capacity by 2035, from the present ratio of 25%. What’s the pathway to reach this target and what are the roadblocks that need to be overcome? We discuss this with Amin Abdul Majid, Head of Energy, Infrastructure and Utilities and Zaid Ibrahim & Co.Image credit: AisyaqilumaranasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does the present demand for hotel rooms during this Raya season indicate about the state of the Malaysian economy? We do a channel-check with Dato’ Indera Naresh Mohan on how hoteliers are faring and his views on regulations for short-term rental accommodation.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore’s economy shrank by 0.7% in the first quarter, larger than projected by economists. What does this mean for the outlook of the island-state? We discuss the economic headwinds buffeting Singapore with Khoon Goh of ANZ Bank.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, the government declassified its report on the 1976 Double-Six tragedy that killed then-Sabah Chief Minister. What have been the implications of the tragic incident and how should this inform government policy on the right to information? Lawyer Roger Chin weighs in.Image credit: adriannanduSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Home Minister Dato’ Seri Saifuddin Nasution informed the Dewan Negara that the Printing Presses and Publication Act is still relevant to preserve peace and security. We ask Watshlah Naidu of the Center for Independent Journalism why she disputes this assertion and how best to uphold freedom of speech without stirring up racial or religious tensions.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US earnings season kicks off this week, with some of the major banks reporting results on Friday, including JP Morgan, CitiGroup and Wells Fargo. We get a preview of what’s expected with Walter Todd of Greenwood Capital.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At present, many who find themselves caught in the criminal justice system are unable to pay for legal representation, especially from the lower income segment. We speak to SUHAKAM Commissioner Ragunath Kesavan on how setting up a Public Defender’s Office could remedy this.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government is embarking on several initiatives to raise Malaysia’s port competitiveness, including plans for a new port on Carey Island with a price tag of RM28 billion. We ask Ooi Lean Hin, Chairman of the Shipping Association of Malaysia for his views on measures needed to elevate Malaysian ports.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gold is currently trading at above 2000 US dollars - what does this say about market sentiment? We discuss what’s driving gold prices with Diego Cacciapuoti of Oxford Economics.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The newly appointed chairs of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) have called for its meetings to be open to public. What value does this bring to Malaysian democracy? We hear from former Chair of the PAC, YB Wong Kah Woh on why this move strengthens parliamentary oversight.Image credit: Friko KeiroSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government estimates that as many as 1 million Malaysians are grappling with drug addiction, far more than official records suggest. What does this say about the effectiveness of policies to tackle drug issues? We discuss policy recommendations with Tham Jia Vern, international engagement coordinator at the Anti-Death Penalty Asia Network.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China has long been known for its economic diplomacy, especially through the Belt and Road Initiative spanning 150 countries over two decades. However Beijing is also trying to build its credentials as an international mediator, as seen in its successful attempt in brokering rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran. spans infrastructure projects and investments across 150 countries over the past two decades. What are the implications of this shift in strategy? We discuss this with Richard McGregor of the Lowy Institute.Image credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Consumer Credit Oversight Board (CCOB) task force which comprises Bank Negara, Securities Commission and officials from the Ministry of Finance has been looking at ways to bring about balance on the consumer credit front. On their radar is Rule of 78 in the Higher Purchase Act and also regulation on BNPL. Hann Liew, founder and director of RinggitPlus, a financial marketplace provider gives us his views on what is required to protect the interest of the borrowers.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Umno is seeking a royal pardon for convicted Ex-Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Razak. What are the repercussions to the relationship between BN and PH? Dr Oh Ei Sun, Principal Adviser at Pacific Research Centre breaks it down for us.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China concluded three-days of military drills in the Straits of Taiwan yesterday, a show of force in response to Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen’s meeting with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. We discuss whether this ratchets up the likelihood of conflict particularly in ASEAN with security analyst Ridzwan Rahmat of Jane’s, a military defense portal.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week the government signalled plans to amend the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971, also known by its Malay acronym AUKU, to address complaints by students of administrative restrictions and financial constraints in carrying out activities on campus. Do the AUKU amendments go far enough to empower students or should we be looking to repeal the act entirely? Dr Sharifah Munirah Alatas, Visiting Professor, Faculty of Social Sciences, Indonesian International Islamic University.Image credit: FacebookSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There has been increasing talks of upgrading or setting up new cross-border rail links as its seen as environmentally friendly. Malaysia is not the exception as there are proposals to establish rail links between Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Kunming. Dr Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah, Professor of Transport Engineering at Universiti Sains Malaysia tells us if we should proceed whilst discussing the woes that KTM faces.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tensions are boiling between Israel and Palestine, following raids by Israeli forces on the Al-Aqsa mosque last week. This has sparked tit-for-tat attacks on civilians in Tel Aviv and the occupied West Bank. Is this the precursor for deterioration into military conflict? We discuss geopolitical developments with Middle East expert Dr. James Dorsey. Image credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Anwar Ibrahim is keen to revive Belt and Road Initiative projects with China. What lessons can be learned from previous experiences with BRI projects? Economist Jayant Menon gives us his thoughts.Image credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is there a black market for organ donation here in Malaysia? We distill the facts from rumours on organ donation with Dr. Hasdy Haron of the National Transplant Resource Centre.Image credit: ShutterstockSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing Wen met with US House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy in southern California yesterday. What kind of impact could this have on broader geopolitical tensions between the US and China? We get analysis from Dr. Adrian Ang of the S. Rajaratnam School of International StudiesImage credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.