Voters should punish politicians who overstay their welcome At the outset, I wish to make a clear and unequivocal disclaimer. Neither I nor this publication harbor any intention to discredit or cast aspersions on any individual associated with the 38 years as an assemblyman narrative. The reference is used solely as a case study to illustrate and support the points discussed in this article. Any mention is strictly for analytical purposes and should not be interpreted as a personal critique. A ..

As COP30 convenes in Belm, in the heart of the Amazon, the worlds focus is narrowly set on carbon emissions and net-zero pledges. Yet, this tunnel vision blinds us to the elephant in the room: Ecosystem destruction is not a carbon problem aloneit is the systemic sabotage of the planets most powerful climate control mechanism. Since 2023, extreme weather events have shattered most model projections of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Meteorologists are grappling with this new ..

From hip-hop song to satirical cartoons, China-Japan row ratchets up online Set to a catchy hip-hop beat and featuring taunting animation, a Chinese music video on social media is calling Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi a troublemaker and warning her against playing with fire by interfering in the affairs of China and Taiwan. The use of such content that disparages the Japanese leader is part of Chinas arsenal of tools to pressure Tokyo and to influence public opinion both at home and ..

ASEAN must take note: Turkiye wants in but Gazas peace plan isnt legally ready Turkiyes willingness to contribute troops to a proposed International Stabilization Force in Gaza has drawn wide international attention. The devastation in Gaza is immense, and any credible effort to stabilise the territory appears urgent. Turkiyes readiness looks decisive and humanitarian- driven. Until the United Nations provides the necessary mandate, Turkiye cannot move from preparation to deployment. And this ..

Citizenship for sale? The FAM naturalization scandal exposes a two-tier Malaysia Their Bahasa Malaysia was so limited that they admitted to FIFA they couldnt read the very documents they supposedly signed. For many Malaysians, especially non-Malay Malaysians who grew up hearing citizenship is a privilege, not a right, the scandal is not just shocking, but also equally painful and an insult. What this episode reveals is not simply cheating in football. It reveals the existence of a two-tier ..

The theme for this years World Children's Day, 20 November 2025, is My Day, My Rights. World Children's Day 2025 focuses on the right of children to be heard, protected, and empowered. The theme encourages listening to children about their daily lives and experiences, and supporting their right to participate in decisions that affect them. As I reflect on this theme, I look to our National Children's Policy and Action Plan, recently released in full by the Ministry of Women, Family and ..

Inclusive AI governance: Charting Vietnams digital future As Vietnam advances its digital transformation, governing artificial intelligence (AI) has become a key strategic focus. The passage of the Law on Digital Technology Industry in June 2025 highlights the nations ambition to make AI and semiconductor technologies central to its development. However, a pressing concern remains: how inclusive is Vietnams AI governance, particularly for individuals with disabilities? Vietnams digital and AI ..

Road to Westports: Malaysias golden artery now a national bottleneck Malaysia, lauded as the regions top 10 container port in the world, celebrated across ASEAN for logistics excellenceparalyzed in an instant by a single stalled lorry or minor crash on a critical stretch of road. This is not a distant threat. It is the daily, growing risk on the two-lane artery leading to Westports, the lifeblood of Malaysias tradeand the choke point jeopardizing billions in exports and the nations global ..

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi looks to have made a good diplomatic debut, considering that she just took office. She made her first solid step forward at summits associated with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Shortly after, she held a Japan-U.S. summit with President Donald Trump, where she seemed to inherit the good relationship between the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and the U.S. leader. To deliver on her policy goal of a Japanese diplomacy that flourishes on the worlds ..

Port Klangs meteoric rise: ASEANs maritime beacon and Malaysias pride In the summer of 2025, Port Klang shattered records and expectations: catapulted into Lloyds Lists top 10 busiest container ports, it leapfrogged regional titan Hong Kong and staked its claim as a new global maritime powerhouse, right on ASEANs shores. This achievementperhaps Malaysias proudest logistics milestone of recent decadesdid not occur by chance. It was the result of bold vision, strategic investment, tireless ..

Federal bloc facing troubles both inside and out in Sabah election The Sabah state election is believed to be the most intense in the history of Malaysia. A total of 596 candidates are contesting 73 state seatsan average of more than eight candidates per seat. In the interior constituency of Tulid, as many as 14 people are vying for the same seat. This is the fantastic nature of Sabah politics. It offers all kinds of opportunities and countless possibilities, making it a paradise for political ..

Selangor's horticultural industry needs the encouraging support of state government The Selangor government has to take the issue of the relocation of the famous Sungai Buloh horticultural nurseries seriously, as horticulture and agriculture are an important component of the state's economy. About three years ago, Selangor Agricultural Development Corporation (PKPS) proposed for the nurseries in Sungai Buloh Greenlane (opposite Kota Damansara) to be re- sited in the Bukit Changgang Horticultural ..

Malaysias moral crossroads: Reflections on our social fabric Recent events in Malaysia have brought to light troubling signs of moral decay among leaders and citizens alike, threatening the foundation of unity, humility, and respect that has defined this country for generations. These days, it feels as if every other headline recounts a new low: political outbursts, shameless self- promotion, tainted institutions, and public disrespect played out on a national stage. This moment invites not only ..

The 13th Malaysia Plan proposition to make preschool mandatory at age five, primary at age six, and secondary education compulsory marks a bold step towards universal education. It signals a determination to ensure that no child is left behind as the nation continues to develop. Yet, ambition without realistic aspirations could be dangerous. Compulsory education, while commendable, risks becoming a hollow promise if access is not compensated by genuine inclusive practices coupled with ..

US President Trumps economic strategy for his second term aims to get the rest of the world, especially its wealthy allies with greater means, to pay more to help strengthen the US economy. Recent US initiatives have undoubtedly accelerated de-dollarization but these have largely been unavoidable consequences of its own actions rather than due to any conspiracy by others to that end. After the Bretton Woods Conference in 1944, the gold price was set at $35 per ounce. In August 1971, US ..

Syamsul Haris Shamsudin was a cadet at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, and at the end of July, his mother Ummu Haiman Bee Daulatgun was notified that he had died during a training exercise. Ummu Haiman was suspicious about how her son met his death, which his superiors said had happened during training. It was alleged that he had suffered a seizure, Dissatisfied with their claims, she unsuccessfully tried to obtain the results of the autopsy report. Undaunted, she sought a court order to have ..

Malaysian hospitality: Time to rekindle the spirit ahead of VMY26 We had decided on a simple joyful birthday staycation treat for my wife along with our daughter and baby grandson at a well-known hotel strategically located near the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station; with visions of a relaxing weekend filled with warmth and Malaysian hospitality. We arrived right on time, bags in hand, hearts light with excitement. Sadly, the experience that unfolded revealed deeper cracks in an industry that was ..

Though Tan Sri Tiong Hiew King has left us, the melody of his favourite song Jasmine Flower still lingers On the afternoon of June 7, 2023, together with a few colleagues from East Malaysia, I accompanied renowned writer Lung Ying-tai to Sibu, Sarawak, to visit the honorary chairman of the Chinese Media International Ltd Tan Sri Tiong Hiew King. He was in good spirits then. When he saw us entering his home, he occasionally lifted his right hand, perhaps to greet us, or signal for us to take our ..

Indonesian deindustrialization: Creative destruction or destructive creation? Economists have widely argued that Indonesia is currently at risk of a middle- income trap (MIT). The World Development Report 2024 proposed a three-stage strategy for countries to escape MIT: first, investment, then investment and infusionand finally, investment and innovation. Without infusion and later innovation, a country cannot sustain economic growth to achieve a high-income status. Infusion and innovation ..

Mamdani's win reflects the power of diversity in a democracy Zohran Mamdani's victory as the New York City Mayor has led to various reactions in the US and around the world. Depending on one's view some termed the win positively and others negatively. The basic reasons why he was elected were the increasingly diversity among the NYC population and the deplorable administration of the City touted as the financial capital of the world. Over the last few decades there has been a vast increase in ..

Mamdani vs. Madani Inclusiveness or just packaging? Democratic left-wing congressman Zohran Mamdani has broken multiple historical records by being elected mayor of New York City, United States. He is not only the first Muslim mayor in New Yorks history but also the youngest in a century. Moreover, he is the first candidate since 1969 to win over one million votes and is expected to secure more than 50% of the total vote share. How did a far-left American politicianwho is also a staunch critic ..

What does high quality development and strong national finance mean? President Xi Jinping's speech at the Fourth Plenum in Beijing last month outlined the guidelines for the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030). There was clear determination to focus on technological self-reliance, building a high quality productive forces economic model based on innovation and strong industrial base that would be resilient against external threats and headwinds. At the Beijing Finance Street Forum at the ..

The two fundamentals of energy security are stability in supply and demand, and affordable prices. A sharp decline in supply or a sudden increase in demand can push up energy prices, triggering inflation and disrupting economic growth. The oil shocks of the 1970s, which led to stagflation in Western economies, are a reminder of the impact of energy prices on international politics and economics. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation economies have traditionally been net importers of energy. But ..

Redefining excellence: The quality and sustainable education of online distance learning in Malaysian higher education The landscape of higher education has undergone a profound transformation in recent years, with online distance learning (ODL) emerging as a cornerstone of modern educational delivery. In Malaysia, this evolution has been particularly significant, not as a stop-gap, but as a strategic pathway to widen access without compromising quality. As universities invest in digital ..

The Mamdani effect: Rekindling hope in a cynical city Today is the big day.Analysts are pretty much unanimous that residents of the Big Apple are set to create history by electing the first Muslim mayor in the financial capital of the United States. Thirty-three-year-oldZohran Mamdanis meteoric political risein the New York mayoral race caught the imagination of the entire world. Initially, appearing to be armed with just a winsome smile and a savvy political mien, especially in tune with ..

The dismissal of the Football Association of Malaysias (FAM) appeal to FIFAs Appeals Committee on Monday was not a surprise at all. Ask any Malaysian football fan and you will probably hear that FAM deserves it. This reaction reflects the deep frustration that Malaysians have long harbored toward our football governing body. For decades, FAM has been seen as inefficient, lacking accountability, and out of touch with the realities of modern football management. The latest fiasco, which led to ..

Australia and ASEAN: Standing together to safeguard our region Southeast Asia understands all too well the value of peace and the true cost of conflict. Violence and instability disrupt livelihoods, displace communities and undermine economic growththreatening food and energy security, and placing long-term development and prosperity at risk. This is why Australia and Malaysia have been close friends and partners for eight decades, working hard to ensure an open and stable region. It is our ..

Selangor Budget 2026 shouldincrease allocations for needy economic sectors and social groups The Selangor 2026 Budget will be tabled on November 14, and as usual a lot of people and economic sectors are anxious to know the budgetary allocations and expenditures of the state for next year. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Bin Shari has hinted that education and poverty eradication are the main budgetary thrusts under consideration. Selangor is Malaysia's premier state with first-world ..

On October 21, Liberal Democratic Party President Sanae Takaichi was elected prime minister, becoming the first woman to assume the post in the history of Japan. Her victory was a breakthrough. A year ago, then Vice President Kamala Harris ran as the Democratic candidate in the U.S presidential election, but she was defeated. The United States has yet to have a female president. With Takaichi now premier, the United States is one of only two Group of Seven countries that has never been led by a ..

There are moments when protocol collides with principle. Trumps visit to Kuala Lumpur, staged with spectacle, was one such moment. To many Malaysians it felt like the surrender of moral authority. EMIR Research has consistently argued that Malaysias strength lies in **credible** neutrality, **dignity** in the Global South, and **policy anchored in justice**. Hosting a figure repeatedly identified with enabling genocide already sits at odds with that stance. EMIR Research warned that rolling out ..

Multilateral diplomacy gains momentum on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the Workers Party of Korea On October 10, Pyongyang celebrated the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Workers Party of Korea (WPK), North Koreas ruling political party. The climax of the various events was, of course, the military parade. For neighboring countries such as Japan, the United States, and South Korea, the parade provided a crucial indicator of North Koreas progress in developing weapons. The first ..

A freewheeling green wave once religious fidelity ascends to intense race While I was waiting at the boarding gate transiting in Istanbul airport on my way back from Europe early October, I suddenly heard an announcement offering any passenger willing to spend a night in Istanbul free hotel accommodation, half-day city tour, 600 travel allowances, and guaranteed departure for Kuala Lumpur on the same flight the next day. What a sweet offer! I almost wanted to stay back and explore this ..

Critique demands a voice, execution demands a vision, courage and the scars of effort Its not a stretch to say that the 47th ASEAN Summit and its related meetings were the most consequentialand successfulin our regions history. Last week, Malaysia played host to virtually the entire world, when political, business and civil society leaders from Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania descended on Kuala Lumpur. Our well-attended ASEAN Summit bucked global trends. In a time of ..

US President Donald Trump is visiting Malaysia, Japan and South Korea this week and enjoying another batch of spotlights as he usually does. However, many in Asia feel uncomfortable, and it is unclear whether he is communicating effectively with Asians. He prides himself on being a smart realist, often invoking a tough, transactional style that he and his followers associate with Machiavelli. Yet political traditions in Asia are different. Many insist that power is most effective when it wins ..

On the sidelines of the recent 47th Asean Summit, FIFA president Gianni Infantino unveiled the concept of a new Asean Cup, a gesture which has received much appreciation from the Asean members and the football fraternity. This Cup, for which the details have not been finalized yet, will be different from the present Asean Football Championship also known as the ASEAN Cup. The FIFA President's initiative is laudable as the Asean nations need more football competitions, better training schemes, ..

Malaysia, China, and the US: Walking the tightrope In October 2025, Malaysia and the United States signed a trade deal that looks amazing in headlines: billions in business, lower tariffs, and promises of closer economic ties. However, if one were to read past the press releases, then the deal looks less like a masterstr

The recently signed U.S.Malaysia Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ARTA) marks a pivotal moment in Malaysias evolving trade strategy. While publicly presented as a mutual liberalization initiative, ARTA reflects less of a free trade breakthro

Establishing a Resilient Asia Together: Building trust through the co-creation and industrialization of disaster prevention standards Asia is both the center of the global economy and the region most frequently struck by natural disasters. According to EM-DATThe International Disaster Database at the Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED), University of Louvain (UCLouvain) in Belgiumthere were 7,348 natural disasters worldwide over the 20-year period from 2000 to 2019. Asia ..

Malaysia: A paradise of kindness, courtesy, and hospitality In the heart of Southeast Asia lies a nation where grace meets grandeurMalaysia. To every ASEAN and world leader gracing our shores, we extend our warmest_Selamat Datang_(welcome). You have arrived not just in a country of beauty but in a home defined by kindness, courtesy, and the world-renowned spirit of Malaysian hospitality. Malaysias essence is written in the smiles of its people. We are a harmonious mosaic of culturesMalays, ..

I wrote and shared the message (below) with my online contacts on October 6, two days before Singapore executed another young Malaysian convicted of a drug offense. It was reportedly the second execution of a Malaysian to be carried out in the island republic in two weeks. It was on October 6 that a group of Malaysians MPs and leaders of some NGOs called a press conference at the media room in Parliament to appeal for the postponement of the execution. A noble action nonetheless but it was too ..