The Breakfast Grille

Penang, Malaysia's second smallest state punches above its weight when it comes to GDP contribution and FDI inflow but what is the next phase of growth for the Silicon Island of the East? Dato’ Loo Lee Lian, CEO of InvestPenang tells us their plans, how they overcome the challenges of talent shortage and manage the competition even from other states.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia is the 12th largest furniture exporter in the world based on 2021 data, with a total export value of some RM13 billion ringgit in 2022. This is the landscape that Synergy House operates in, a pure-play e-commerce furniture design, development and distribution company that listed on the ACE Market in June last year. How have they put their RM34 million IPO proceeds to use? We get updates from Executive Director Tan Eu Tah.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 18th every year is celebrated as Nelson Mandela International Day honouring the first post-apartheid president of South Africa. Its High Commissioner to Malaysia, Dave Malcomson, discusses how the past 30 years of post-apartheid has led to the country accusing Israel of genocide for its actions in Gaza, balancing it out with its continued engagement with Russia and how the BRICS intergovernmental organisation might bring some balance to an inequitable world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

French ambassador to Malaysia His Excellency Axel Cruau joins us in the studio for a wide-ranging conversation on the recently concluded French legislative elections, bilateral ties in Malaysia, geo-politics and how the upcoming Olympics will be more economically and environmentally sustainable.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2024 is the year the global airline industry turned the page on the Covid-19 pandemic - traffic has returned to pre-pandemic levels and airlines are making profits once again. But the positive numbers belie the many headwinds that could still weigh down on future growth. How are airlines navigating these challenges? We discuss these themes with Marie Owens Thomsen, Senior Vice President for Economics & Sustainability at the International Air Transport Association (IATA).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The shifting political landscape since 2018 has meant that the dynamics in Parliament have changed - to what extent are the present rules and conventions in keeping with this new reality? Do the current electoral laws allow for the maximum public participation? We discuss priority reforms for parliament and elections to strengthen Malaysian democracy with our expert panel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

George Town, Penang, has celebrated its 16th anniversary of being jointly inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List with Malacca. Think City, a Khazanah Nasional subsidiary, was instrumental in helping to develop George Town since 2009, helping to maintain its status as a living heritage city. Hamdan Abdul Majeed, shares his experience as Think City's managing director as well as a Penangite.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were conceived in 2015 as a pathway to galvanise the whole international community towards the common aims of economic development, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. With 6 years to go until the 2030 deadline, how far have we progressed in achieving the 17 distinct targets - and why has investment in education consistently been overlooked? We discuss these themes with Prof. Jeffrey Sachs, President of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad has just announced an ambitious plan to acquire a stake in a Brunei gas asset. Will this be a value accretive acquisition for this oil and gas exploration and production company with a price tag of nearly USD200mn. We speak to their managing director, Kenneth Gerard Pereira to find out whilst asking why this company appears to be overlooked by the investment community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Optimax, which specializes in a wide range of ophthalmology medical services has now expanded to the aesthetic care industry and set up shop in Cambodia. We ask Sandy Tan, their CEO, about the synergies of their expansion and the challenges of running a business that is capex and human resource intensive.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HE Group Berhad a electrical engineering services company, listed on the Ace Market earlier this year. Since then the share price has tripled. We speak to Managing Director Amos Haw Chee Seng to explore what strategies will fuel the company's future growth and assess the potential for further appreciation in their share price.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The music industry has evolved from the days of cassettes, vinyl and CDs, to streaming and social media over the last four decades or so.  Dinesh Ratnam, the Managing Director of Warner Music Malaysia sits down to talk about how this company now operates in an increasingly digital world where the consumption and promotion of music and creativity are at levels never dreamed of before. Is this a boon or bane for record labels?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kucingko Berhad will become Malaysia's first animation company to list on Bursa Malaysia's ACE Market by the end of July. It started life as Inspidea back in 2002 and has chalked up production credits from the Cartoon Network's Johnny Bravo to the BAFTA-nominated BBC series, Pet Squad. Its co-founder and executive director iCJ See talks about how this IPO might be the next step in this company's ambition to become the Dreamworks of Asia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year, Malaysia-China celebrates 50 years of relations. We speak to Peter T. C. Chang, Deputy Director of the Institute of China Studies, University of Malaya on the evolution of this relationship and what the future may hold in this era of increased geopolitical tensions amidst integrated economic ties.Image Credit: shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), a government agency under the Ministry of Digital has been tasked since 1996 to ensure that Malaysia becomes a digital economy. Mahadhir Aziz, CEO of MDEC tells us if they are on path to achieve their goals despite the plethora of government agencies involved and what are the challenges ahead considering the digital divide and talent shortage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2023 was a banner year for Malaysian cinema in terms of international recognition, however the local industry was bogged down by low box office sales and film censorship controversies. Additionally the consequences of a shift to digitalisation continue to reverberate across the global industry. What role does FINAS play in this changing industry landscape? We discuss this with Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib, CEO of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Twelfth Malaysia Plan targets to grow the economic contribution of MSMEs to 45% of GDP by 2025 from just under 40% currently. But do the policies at hand recognise the nuances of the MSME landscape, including those related to women entrepreneurs? To mark World MSME Day, we discuss these themes  with: Chin Chee Seong, National Secretary General of the SME Association and Gaya Subramaniam, co-founder of Bungalow18, a multi-space boutique featuring local and handcrafted products.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Islamic Finance market is small in comparison to its conventional counterpart but that also means that there are plenty of opportunities for innovation and growth. We speak to Mustafa Adil, Head of Islamic Finance at London Stock Exchange (LSEG) to understand the dynamic landscape, the importance of Shariah compliance, the global sukuk market and Malaysia's role in this field.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MyDigital ID is a national identity and transaction signing platform that hopes to address current vulnerabilities like insecure communication channels and the storage of user credentials. Mohd Mirza Mohamed Noor, CEO of My Digital ID Sdn Bhd, highlights its purpose, integration with existing systems, and goals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Go Hub Capital specialises in enterprise IT services, with a particular focus on the transportation sector. Tan Cherng Thong, their CEO tells us why they are electing for an ACE listing, the usage of their proceeds, the competition and is their IPO priced to perfection.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Poland and Malaysia have had diplomatic relations since 1971 and since the last half-century, trade between the two nations have been chugging along and could be better. Przemysław Zaręba, the Head of the Polish Investment & Trade Agency's Foreign Trade Office In Malaysia, shares with us what he sees could be areas to develop between our countries' businesses as well as challenges he foresees on the horizon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil prices have been volatile in the last two decades affecting all oil and gas players. We speak to T7 Global as to what their outlook is for the industry especially on the back of the shift towards renewable energy. Tan Kay Zhuin, Group CEO, will also share with us the operating landscape, the competition and do they have regional ambitions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For over 32 years, International Medical University Malaysia has provided private tertiary education for those keen to pursue a career in healthcare. It was recently sold off by its original parent company, the Bursa-listed IHH Healthcare, to a consortium comprising US private equity firm, TPG Group, Hong Leong Group and EPF. Professor Gerry George, IMU's group managing director shares his vision for the university's future as a business and as a place from which the next generation of doctors come.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year marks 76 years since the British Council was established in 1948 as an education and cultural centre. But as the geopolitical dynamics have shifted over the decades and as attitudes towards higher education evolve, how much pull does the UK have on Malaysians today? We discuss the role and relevance of the British Council in Malaysia with its Country Director Jazreel Goh.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EUPE Corporation Berhad has been a property developer since 1986 by combining innovative and affordable homes through a unique shared value approach. Dato' Beh Huck Lee, Group Managing Director of EUPE highlights the corporation's distinctive approach to residential design and perhaps explains in the share price has suddenly been on a tear.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia is the second largest producer of palm oil after Indonesia, making up 24% of global production. With the sector facing headwinds including challenges in productivity, regulatory impediments and uncertain demand conditions, how well can Malaysia adapt to the changing ties? We discuss these issues with Datuk Dr. Ahmad Parveez Ghulam Kadir, Director General of the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Johor Plantations Group is set to be the latest oil palm company to list on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia. It is part of the 5-year transformation plan of Kulim Malaysia, which was delisted in 2016, to see a more focused approach to the overall operations. Mohd Faris Adli Shukery, the managing director of both JPG and Kulim explains the overall plan for the company and how an IPO falls in line with the long-term plans of both firms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Both developed and developing countries have experimented with social stock exchanges over the past two decades with little success. Can India's model be the gamechanger in social funding? We discuss the concept and implementation of the Indian social stock exchange with Dr. R. Balasubramian, Chair of SEBI's Social Stock Exchange Advisory Committee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, was recently on an official visit to Malaysia, after having taken over the roles following the country's general election in October 2023. He sits down with us to discuss bilateral relations between Wellington and Putrajaya, as well as New Zealand's stand on international issues including solutions to the Israel-Palestine crisis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

IKEA is arguably Sweden’s most prominent export, with a presence spanning 30 years and four outlets in Malaysia. How is the world’s largest furniture retailer navigating the challenges that come with greater competition in the online space, uncertain global economic conditions and increasing pressure to substantiate sustainability credentials? We discuss these themes with Malcolm Pruys, Retail Director of Ikea Malaysia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Insurance is a notorious competitive business made doubly so with the entry of the global players. Kamaludin Ahmad, Group CEO of Etiqa tells us about their regional ambitions, is Takaful their focus and how do we improve financial inclusion in Malaysia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The banking sector is seen an a barometer of the economy and what does a bank with a 140 year legacy have to share about the state of Malaysian consumers and businesses.  CEO of HSBC Malaysia,  Dato' Omar Siddiq tells us whilst sharing with us the current operating landscape, how it creates its own niche in a very competitive environment and the KPIs set by headquarters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Keyfield International Bhd made its debut on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia in April and is in the business of providing Offshore accommodation services. CEO Dato' Kee Chit Huei explains the planned use of proceeds, addresses concerns about customer concentration risk especially on Petronas, and outlines the company's growth potential.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US is Malaysia’s third largest trading partner and also largest contributor of foreign direct investment. However will international unease over US policies in Gaza and its long-running rivalry with China have an impact on our traditionally strong economic ties? We discuss these themes with the US Ambassador to Malaysia, H.E. Edgard Kagan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UNICEF recently released a report titled "Living on the Edge," which focuses on  low-income families in Kuala Lumpur. living in low cost flats. The report's authors, Dr. Juanita Vasquez Escallon, Chief of Social Policy at UNICEF, and Zouhair Rosli, Deputy Director of Research at DM Analytics, share their shocking findings and policy recommendations to assist these vulnerable households.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In just 4 decades the People's Republic of China under the Chinese Communist Party, has transformed itself from an impoverished agrarian economy into an industrial powerhouse, that is the world's second largest economy today. Author and investigative journalist Bethany Allen, whose latest book is "Beijing Rules: China’s Quest for Global Influence", shares her views on how China's influence might shape the world order going forward.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) was set up in accordance with section 153 of the Federal Constitution to educate and empower the Bumiputera Community. To what extent has it fulfilled this role and are race-based education policies still relevant in modern Malaysia? We assess the purpose, achievements and controversies of UiTM with its 7th Vice-Chancellor, Professor Datuk Dr. Shahrin Sahib.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

KTI Landmark, a Sabah developer is gearing for an ACE market listing in mid-June, raising RM48 million. We ask Managing Director, Gordon Loke what are the intentions for the IPO proceeds, their strategy for growth and are they being overly ambitious with plans to start projects in the Klang Valley.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

InDrive, a top-tier provider of mobility and ride-hailing services, is set to redefine the urban mobility scene with its groundbreaking fare negotiation feature. This pioneering approach ensures fair pricing for both riders and drivers alike. We caught up with Mark Loughran, Group President of inDrive, to delve into the company’s core mission, its impact on urban communities, and its expanding presence in Malaysia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renewable energy solutions provider, Plus Xnergy Group, sees much more potential today in Malaysia's solar energy systems business, much more than when it first started out more than 10 years ago. This is thanks to rising utility bills and warmer weather, while government incentives also help spur demand. Ko Chuan Zhen is its CEO and joins us to talk about collaborations, expansion, competition and a possible listing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Automotive cover and seat manufacturer Feytech Holdings is set to debut on Bursa Malaysia’s Main Market today. CEO Connie Go discusses the objectives behind the IPO, the strategies that drove their impressive three-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 39% in revenue, and the measures they take to mitigate risks of margin compression.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After 60 years in Malaysia, Dutch Lady will start operating from their new plant. We speak to Ramjeet Kaur Virik, Managing Director, Dutch Lady Industries about how important this is to growth and address those stories of privatisation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SBH Marine Holdings is a newly-listed  frozen seafood products processor and exporter which is planning to use it RM40 million ringgit IPO proceeds to expand its market and production. Saw Leng Hean, its executive director, talks about the challenges in operating shrimp farms in this highly competitive market, as it starts to explore selling to China from where only less than 3% of its revenue is derived.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HELP University is one of the pioneer homegrown private education institutions in Malaysia premised on making tertiary learning more accessible. How has it navigated the changing landscape of the sector? We discuss the trajectory of the higher education industry, and the fortunes of the HELP Education Group with Prof. Datuk Dr. Paul Chan, co-founder and Chancellor of HELP University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lawrence Wong officially takes over as Prime Minister of Singapore. We take a critical look at the challenges he inherits and if his leadership will be very different from that of his predecessor. Dr. Michael Barr, Associate Professor, Flinders University and Author of “The Ruling Elite of Singapore gives us his perspective.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government will be rolling back petrol and diesel subsidies. What impact will this have on petrol stations and does the increasing proliferation of EVs also mean that this is sunset business.  Dato' Khairul Annuar Abdul Aziz, President, Petroleum Dealers Association of Malaysia tells us how the business model is changing to meet these headwinds.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MYMBN Bhd became the first birds nest processor to publicly list on the ACE Market in 2023, raising RM 21 million on the back of booming business during the Covid-19 pandemic. However high flying hopes have fallen for the stock amid an economic slowdown in China - can they reverse their fortunes? We delve into the business of birds' nests with CEO Lavernt Chen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was announced that Sunzen Biotech will be exiting from its animal health business to focus on human health products and loan financing services. Executive chairman, Ching Chee Pun shares with us the rationale behind this decision, the outlook and why they appear to have a weak track record when it comes to M&A.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Europe Day Michalis Rokas, Ambassador and Head of the EU delegation to Malaysia joins us to delve into topics such as Ukraine, Gaza, and the recently announced Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Malaysia and the EU.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It has been increasingly more challenging to navigate the intersection between corporate responsibility and ethical footing. Alison Taylor, author of "Higher Ground: How Business Can Do the Right Thing in a Turbulent World" joins Philip See to share her insights on the topic and how businesses can help build trust.Image Credit: Shutterstock.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.