Rubber Glove Manufacturers Brace For Uncertainty

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is sending shockwaves through global supply chains, sharply raising the cost of energy and petrochemical-derived raw materials. As a result, Malaysia’s rubber glove industry, which produces nearly 45% of the world’s supply, is facing heightened pressure. Surg…

Malaysia’s Economy in a Shifting World

The World Bank Group is projecting economic growth for Malaysia this year coming in at 4.4%, slower than the robust 2025, where real GDP outperformed expectations at 5.2%. Dr Afzanizam Abdul Rashid, Chief Economist, Bank Muamalat, discusses this latest 2026 Malaysia Economic Monitor. Image Credi…

Is Thailand’s Inflation Turning A Corner?

After nearly a year of deflation, Thailand’s headline inflation is edging back toward positive territory. Sathit Talaengsatya, an economist at UOB Thailand, shares perspectives on how price pressures are being driven by energy and selected food items, while core inflation remains subdued, potential…

Ceasefire Now, Conflict Later? US–Iran’s Fragile Pause

The US and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, but key issues like sanctions, nuclear enrichment, and control of the Strait of Hormuz remain unresolved. Can both sides bridge their differences and prevent a return to conflict? Dr James Dorsey, Adjunct Senior Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School…

Ceasefire Announced, Markets Recover: But For How Long?

Equities rallied across the world immediately after a two-week US-Iran ceasefire was announced, while crude oil prices tumbled 16%, its largest one-day drop since 2020. Tony Nash, CEO of Complete Intelligence, discusses what he anticipates as more details about these latest developments become clea…

Two Presidents, Two Paths

Vietnam and Myanmar have both installed new presidents, but under vastly different circumstances. As Vietnam consolidates power under To Lam while pursuing ambitious growth targets, Myanmar’s military leadership tightens control amid ongoing conflict and limited international recognition. What do t…

Markets Volatility, Opportunities In Asia

Asian equity markets are entering the second quarter on uncertain footing, as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East reshape investor sentiment and capital flows. Aidan Yao, a senior investment strategist for Asia at Amundi discusses how geopolitical risks might guide sentiment after the S&P Asia…

Leaf It To The Courts: Forest Rights On Trial

For over 30 years, Malaysia has committed to maintaining 50% forest cover. A recent lawsuit by six youths under the 'Mana Hutan Kami' campaign now challenges the government in the High Court, alleging that more than 4 million hectares are slated for conversion. Environmental lawyer Jia Yaw Kiu disc…

Can Madani Mart Coexist With Small Businesses?

The government’s Madani Mart initiative aims to lower the cost of living while empowering local entrepreneurs through a licensed, privately run retail model backed by Yayasan Madani. Syahnis Salleh, Board of Trustees Member of the Malay Economic Action Council (MTEM), discusses concerns over whethe…

Can Malaysia’s Orange Economy Deliver Real Growth?

Malaysia is launching an Orange Economic Council to boost its creative industries, from live events to digital content, as part of a broader push for growth. With the sector already contributing significantly to GDP, what policies will drive real impact, how can bottlenecks be addressed, and can Ma…