Morning Brief

The Malaysia 2020 Census Report was released which revealed data including population growth, urbanisation rates and even gender imbalance. The next step is using it for crafting national policies. Dr. Geoffrey Williams, Economist at Malaysia University of Science and Technology helps us understand why this is so important. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Korea has started the 22-day campaign period for the Presidential post that began last Tuesday with balloting on March 9. This election is closely watched by foreign countries as the candidates hold very different views. With just 6 weeks to go, what can we expect from the campaign season and how will the election likely pan out? William Pesek, Tokyo-based journalist and a columnist with Nikkei Asia tells us more. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Oh Ei Sun unpacks the latest developments taking place in the upcoming Johor state elections as more parties throw their hat into the ring and begin announcing their candidates. Image credit: Adi Haririe / Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government is planning to introduce a series of affordable home programmes as part of its "Liveable Malaysia" initiative. However Bank Negara Malaysia has said that attention should be given to the supply and demand mismatch in the housing market as well as focus on price transparency issues instead. What is the solution needed to enable the M40 and B40 groups to purchase a home? Dr Suraya Ismail, research director, Khazanah Research Institute shares her thoughts. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humanitarian aid and financial flows to Afghanistan have been halted since the Taliban’s return to government, with donors seeking to tie aid funding to conditions such as the upholding of human rights. But as countries haggle around the diplomatic table, the collapse of the economy in Afghanistan has plunged up to three-quarters of the population into acute poverty, and impacted the delivery of basic services such as education and health care. Can the international community act to prevent humanitarian catastrophe in Afghanistan without emboldening the Taliban government? We discuss the situation with Herizal Hezri, Chief Executive of ISIS Malaysia. Image credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin is planning to table a new Tobacco and Smoking Control Act in the upcoming Parliament session in replacement of the old and some of the proposed measures of the legislation is to prohibit the sale of cigarettes and tobacco products including vape and e-cigarettes to people born after 2005. But will this be effective? Dr. Helmy Haja Mydin, consultant respiratory physician and newly appointed technical advisor to the Ministry of Health on the tobacco & smoking legislation shares his thoughts. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

World Radio Day, which has been observed on 13 February since 2011 has just passed but this year's theme is “Radio and Trust". It’s still challenging times for traditional media, and radio is no exception. Meera Sivasothy, General Manager at BFM gives us the insider's view of how we as a station have pivoted in this new normal. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cabinet has approved the addition of 1,500 permanent positions for doctors annually from 2023 to 2025. Is this welcoming news for contract doctors? Dr Kevin Ng, the former chairman for Malaysian Medical Association’s Section Concerning House Officers and Medical Officers from 2018 to 2020 shares with us his views. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the past month, protests against Covid-19 mandates have grown into a catch-all anti-government movement that has disrupted economic activity in Ottawa and also crippled US-Canada border movements. We discuss the factors driving the ongoing protests with Dr. Matthew Kerby of ANU. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bank Negara released GDP for the last quarter of 2021 which was above consensus expectations thanks in part to the removal of most lockdown measures. Yet the Central Bank Governor warned that the balance of the risks are tilted towards the downside amid the pandemic. Firdaos Rosli, Chief Economist at MARC Ratings gives us his expectations for 2022 growth and whether inflation will be a risk to watch out for. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Datuk Seri Garry Chua, Immediate Past President of the Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA), addresses the woes of the F&B sector post-pandemic as the New Normal possibly heralds the end of one of Malaysia's most-loved pastimes: 24-7 dining. Image credit: Unsplash.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Malaysian GDP numbers to be released today beholds and what would the story be for the other countries in the region? Khoon Goh, Head of Asia Research for ANZ speaks to us. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The internet is one of the greatest inventions of the modern age, but its widespread usage has created various challenges for governments, tech platforms and individuals alike. How should we balance the right to access to information and freedom of expression, with the duty to prevent misinformation and hate speech? We discuss the issues at hand with media rights expert Gayathry Venkiteswaran. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There has been some fresh developments in the usually muted utilities sector lately; Tenaga Nasional's legal win against the Inland Revenue Board and YTL Power International's disposal of their stake in Australia’s ElectraNet. Moreover, sustainability is the latest talk of the town (or sector). So, how will utility companies in Malaysia perform and develop with regards to the nation's aim of renewable energy generation? Chong Lee Len, analyst at UOB Kay Hian provides some insights on the current and future landscape of Malaysia's utilities sector. Image credit: Pixabay.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Election Commission has confirmed that Johor state elections will be held on March 12th, with Nomination Day set for February 26th. Muda has aligned itself as a strategic partner to Pakatan Harapan, and will contest in at least 6 seats, potentially 9 pending negotiations with PKR. Can opposition parties form a united front against Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional parties? Political analyst Dr. Azmi Hassan weighs in. Image credit: MUDASee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Political analyst Andrea Chloe Wong discusses the Philippines’ national elections, where nearly 68 million Filipinos will vote in a new leader on May 9th. We discuss the prospects of the frontrunner candidates, including  Ferdinand Marcos Jr, fondly known as Bong Bong, and current Vice President Leni Robredo, as well as other names in the fray such as former boxer and senator Manny Pacquiao. Image credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MARA is responsible for developing, encouraging, facilitating and fostering economic and social development in Malaysia's rural areas. So what happens when questions of integrity in MARA and its related agencies arise? Dr. Nungsari A. Radhi, Economist answers that question. Image credit: Mara CorpSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Valentine's Day is just a few days away and many singles may be looking for their potential date on an online dating app. But how is the business of dating apps faring, especially during the pandemic? Matthew Martino, Technology Analyst with Bloomberg Intelligence discusses the prospects of the online matchmaking players Bumble and Match Group. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The National Recovery Council (NRC) announced plans to reopen borders to fully vaccinated travellers without mandatory quarantine on 1 March, subject to Cabinet approval. Meanwhile the Ministry of Health introduced measures to increase the take-up of booster shots to safeguard the healthcare system in the face of the Omicron wave. We discuss whether Malaysia is ready to enter the endemic phase with Azrul Mohd Khalib of the Galen Center. Image credit: Unsplash.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Minister of Human Resources Datuk Seri M. Saravanan has mooted for minimum wage levels to be increased to RM1500 by the end of the year. This has sparked a debate between labour unions and employer associations on the right timing for wage increases, given the precarious economic recovery. We discuss the economic considerations at play with business commentator Pankaj C. Kumar. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil prices have rallied to over USD90 per barrel this month, the highest level seen since 2014. What's driving up oil prices and is the rally sustainable? Bloomberg Intelligence senior analyst Horace Chan weighs in on the discussion. Image credit: Pexels.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Johor state elections will be closely watched with 56 seats up from grabs. This time round, will MCA able to recover from their disastrous loss in GE14? Dr James Chin, Lecturer in Asian Studies at University of Tasmania gives us his views whilst also rating DAP's chances. Image credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Election Commission will announce the nomination and polling days for the Johor state elections this Wednesday. Umno is seen as the party with pole position in Johor, but how much of an advantage do they have? Dr. Bridget Welsh, Honorary Research Associate at the University of Nottingham-Malaysia discusses the dynamics within Umno and also with erstwhile allies Perikatan Nasional. Image credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week Meta stock took a plunge after it released results that were below expectations. But market sentiments picked up as more positive tech earnings got released. So will technology remain the darling sector in 2022? We speak to Dan Ives, Managing Director of Wedbush Securities to understand more. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We speak to Dr Khoo Yoong Khean, Managing Editor of Malaysian Medical Gazette to get the low down on Covid-19 vaccination for children aged 5 to 11. And with cases hitting over 10,000 for the first time since October, we also pick his thoughts on relaxing current restrictions. Image credit: Unsplash.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Beijing Winter Olympics will officially commence 14 years after the wildly successful Beijing Summer Olympics 2008 that heralded the opening of China to the world. However, these Winter Olympics are being held under very different circumstances and under intense international scrutiny. China is juggling with the challenges of organizing a major sporting event amid a global Omicron wave, as well as a Western-led diplomatic boycott over allegations of human rights abuses. Phelim Kine, China correspondent with Politico based in Washington D.C. weighs in on the impact of the Games and China's political direction. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Global sovereign credit conditions have improved in the second year of the pandemic when compared to 2020 but with policy makers marching to the tune of monetary tightening, what does this mean for sovereign ratings. James McCormack, Global Head of Sovereign Ratings at Fitch Ratings whilst telling us if Malaysia is at risk of a downgrade. Image credit: Pixabay.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is the latest employment trend in Malaysia? Ridhima Khanduja, Partner and Market Leader, Kincentric Malaysia shares with us glimpses of the current employment market and tips on how to manage employees during these times. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Presidents Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping will be meeting on the sidelines of the Winter Olympics this week, amid increasing tensions with the US. How have Sino-Russian ties evolved and what implications does the Russia-Ukraine stand-off have for geopolitical strategy? We discuss the dynamics at play with Alexey Muraviev of Curtin University. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sime Darby Plantations has become the latest Malaysian company to be served with a Withhold Release Order or W.R.O, by the US Customs and Border Protection department, over allegations of forced labour. Khor Yu Leng, political economist at Segi Enam Advisers weighs in on much needed policy reform. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For analysis on what could be in store for global equity markets, Sean Markowicz, Strategist at Schroders helps us understand different investment strategies as the Fed begins to unwind their accommodative monetary policy. Image credit: Pixabay.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With a disastrous showing in Sarawak and Melaka for the opposition, what is their strategy to retake back the largest state in Peninsula Malaysia. YB Fahmi Fadzil, Communications Director of PKR and MP of Lembah Pantai gives us some insight into their plan and what would be outcome if it fails. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We see more glitzy new hotels springing up, but what does this translate in occupancy rate with the lack of tourists from abroad? Yap Lip Seng, CEO of Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) tells us more. Image credit: Unsplash.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We take the pulse of the region with Steve Cochrane, Chief APAC Economist at Moody’s Analytics, as he gives us an overview on what to expect in the region this year. Image credit: Unsplash.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the Fed expected to raise rates by at least three to four times in 2022, what does this mean for the Malaysian Fixed Income market? Ang Beng Kuan, Head of investment, Hong Leong Islamic Asset Management tells us whilst giving us his investment strategy for this year. Image credit: Pixabay.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pakatan Harapan will be contesting under two banners in the Johor state elections - PKR will use their own party logo, while DAP and Amanah will campaign using the PH logo. What does this move say about the unity of the coalition? We ask Johor DAP Chairman Liew Chin Tong on the rationale for the decision and the PH political strategy ahead of the state polls. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bank Negara Malaysia launched its 5-year Financial Services Blueprint 2022 - 2026 (FSB3) this week, which outlined the key priorities of the financial sector amidst changing market conditions. We hear from Bank Negara Asst. Governor Adnan Zaylani on the objectives of the blueprint. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the year of the Water Tiger fast approaches, we take a look at the Feng Shui Index released annually by the international brokerage and investment group, CLSA. Will the God of Wealth whisper into your ear in 2022? Wand bearer Justin Chan whose real day job is the Hong Kong/China Small and Mid cap analyst tells us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Supply chain disruptions have been a long running issue throughout the pandemic, where a confluence of factors, including bottlenecks at trading ports, panic buying from consumers and rising freight charges, collide into a perfect storm. Amid a broad global economic recovery, will supply chain disruptions dampen the growth outlook? We discuss the situation with Steve Saxon of McKinsey & Co. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Has spending recovered to pre-pandemic levels especially during the run up to Chinese New Year? Datuk William Ng, Chairman of the Small and Medium Enterprises Association (SAMENTA) gives us a channel check of what is happening on the ground and the challenges they still face. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the third year of the pandemic and banking systems are expected to reflect the economic recovery of countries. But how soon can profitability return to pre-pandemic levels despite rising interest rates. Jonathan Cornish, Managing Director and Head of Asia-Pacific Banks of Fitch Ratings tells us. Image credit: Pexels.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Kuljit Singh explains that why public-private collaboration the best way to clear up the medical backlog in public hospitals as we are seeing a backlog of over 50,000 cases at public hospitals. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At MyFintech Week organised by Bank Negara Malaysia, Governor Tan Sri Nor Shamsiah Mohd Yunus launched the Financial Sector Blueprint 2022-2026. Vincent Fong, Chief Editor, Fintech News Malaysia gives his views on this very comprehensive plan and how it integrates with the existing financial system. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The announcement that teachers under the Education Ministry can get involved in politics has stirred intense debate. We discuss the implications of the policy decision and how it differs from previous practice with academic scholar Prof. Zaharom Nain. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tensions in Eastern Europe are heating up this week, amid continued warnings from the UK and US over a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine. What is the likelihood of tensions escalating into armed conflict? We discuss the latest developments with Dr. Christopher Miller of The Fletcher School at Tufts University. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia suffered a further drop in rankings in the latest Transparency International Corruption Perception Index (CPI), falling 6 spots to 62. What reforms are needed to reverse our downward trajectory on the index, and how does our CPI ranking affect perceptions towards Malaysia? We discuss this with Dr. Muhammad Mohan of TI-Malaysia. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Johor's snap state elections could be an interesting bellwether for UMNO's coming GE15 aspirations but also for how the 750,000 young new voters will vote, thanks to Undi18's introduction. Dr. Hamidin Abd Hamid, Research Fellow, Ilham Centre, explores. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Catherine Birch from ANZ Research helps unpack Australia's economic performance and expectations for 2022 as unemployment continues amid a net loss of population at more than 88 thousand people from 2020 to 2021. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been two years since Covid's discovery in Malaysia, so how does Malaysia rate on its policy treatment of the virus and what lessons can be learnt on this anniversary? Dr Vinod Balasubramaniam, Senior Lecturer and Co-Lead, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine & Health Sciences, answers. Image credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The fall out between top badminton player Lee Zii Jia and the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) has raised questions about the management of national athletes and priorities of the sports industry. We dissect the issues at hand with journalist Haresh Deol. Image credit: EPA-EFESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.