Transport Minister Anthony Loke says the government is operating in “crisis mode” as the Middle East conflict disrupts global supply chains and pushes fuel prices to record highs. With short-term measures like WFH flexibility, air-conditioning limits, and calls for carpooling, questions remain over who will bear the brunt of the crisis, whether subsidy rationalisation should be accelerated, and how far belt-tightening can go without slowing the economy. We explore this with Dr Tricia Yeoh. (Starts at 22:58)


• AG defends murder charge in Klang DUI case: Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar has justified the rare decision to pursue a murder charge against R. Saktygaanapathy over a fatal DUI crash in Klang, citing dashcam evidence and witness testimony that the driver’s actions were “imminently dangerous.” We speak to criminal lawyer Goh Cia Yee about what the courts need to do to prove the charge. (Starts at 16:19)

• Govt offices to raise AC temperatures: In a bid to cut energy use amid rising fuel costs, the government has ordered all government offices to set air-conditioners at 24°C and allow casual attire. The move is part of wider efforts to manage national energy consumption as global supply disruptions push diesel prices in Malaysia to record highs. We discuss this move. (Starts at 11:17)

• Contract pharmacists face job loss amid delays: Forty-five contract pharmacists are set to lose their jobs tomorrow after months of waiting for permanent appointments, with more facing expiry in July. Despite high demand in public hospitals, delays in issuing letters have left many in uncertainty. We speak to Amrahi Buang, President of the Malaysian Pharmacists Society about this. (Starts at 6:13)

•  Artemis II marks historic return to the moon: NASA’s Artemis II mission has launched, sending humans beyond Earth’s orbit for the first time in over five decades. The 10-day journey will carry the diverse crew farther from Earth than ever before, setting the stage for future moon landings and eventual missions to Mars. (Starts at 0:23)


Image Credit: Shutterstock

Transport Minister Anthony Loke says the government is operating in “crisis mode” as the Middle East conflict disrupts global supply chains and pushes fuel prices to record highs. With short-term measures like WFH flexibility, air-conditioning limits, and calls for carpooling, questions remain over who will bear the brunt of the crisis, whether subsidy rationalisation should be accelerated, and how far belt-tightening can go without slowing the economy. We explore this with Dr Tricia Yeoh. (Starts at 22:58) • AG defends murder charge in Klang DUI case: Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar has justified the rare decision to pursue a murder charge against R. Saktygaanapathy over a fatal DUI crash in Klang, citing dashcam evidence and witness testimony that the driver’s actions were “imminently dangerous.” We speak to criminal lawyer Goh Cia Yee about what the courts need to do to prove the charge. (Starts at 16:19)• Govt offices to raise AC temperatures: In a bid to cut energy use amid rising fuel costs, the government has ordered all government offices to set air-conditioners at 24°C and allow casual attire. The move is part of wider efforts to manage national energy consumption as global supply disruptions push diesel prices in Malaysia to record highs. We discuss this move. (Starts at 11:17)• Contract pharmacists face job loss amid delays: Forty-five contract pharmacists are set to lose their jobs tomorrow after months of waiting for permanent appointments, with more facing expiry in July. Despite high demand in public hospitals, delays in issuing letters have left many in uncertainty. We speak to Amrahi Buang, President of the Malaysian Pharmacists Society about this. (Starts at 6:13)• Artemis II marks historic return to the moon: NASA’s Artemis II mission has launched, sending humans beyond Earth’s orbit for the first time in over five decades. The 10-day journey will carry the diverse crew farther from Earth than ever before, setting the stage for future moon landings and eventual missions to Mars. (Starts at 0:23) Image Credit: Shutterstock

Top 5 at 5: Malaysia in Crisis Mode Amid US-Iran Conflict

Several individuals have been arrested over alleged sexual abuse of boys at a Selayang children’s home, which was found to be operating without Social Welfare Department oversight. The case only came to light after former residents spoke out, raising concerns about gaps in monitoring, delayed detection, and systemic failures in child protection. We discuss what needs to change with James Nayagam, chairman of Suriana Welfare Society. (Starts at 23:50)


• Sungai Buloh nurseries face eviction deadline: More than 50 nursery operators in Sungai Buloh have been ordered to vacate their land by April 15 for a road widening project, raising concerns over the short timeline and lack of a confirmed relocation site. With plants requiring careful handling and no viable alternative in place, operators are calling for more time and support. We speak to Sivarajan Arumugam of Parti Sosialis Malaysia about what could happen if the eviction proceeds. (Starts at 17:17)

• Civil servants set to begin WFH: Malaysia’s government will roll out a work-from-home policy for civil servants and GLC employees starting April 15, as part of the People’s Support Initiative to reduce energy use amid rising global oil prices. We discuss the good and the bad of the policy. (Starts at 11:10)

• Israel's controversial death penalty: Israel’s parliament has approved legislation that would impose the death penalty on Palestinians convicted of deadly attack. Critics, including the UN and human rights groups, warn the law is discriminatory and could amount to a war crime. We speak to Saul Takahashi, visiting professor of legal studies at New York University Abu Dhabi, about what this signals for Israel’s broader intentions in the occupied territories. (Starts at 6:30)

• China bans 'bone ash apartments': Authorities have outlawed the practice of storing cremated remains in residential flats, as families increasingly turn empty apartments into private ancestral shrines amid rising funeral costs and expensive cemetery plots. We discuss rising costs in the local funeral industry. (Starts at 0:23)


Image Credit: Shutterstock

Several individuals have been arrested over alleged sexual abuse of boys at a Selayang children’s home, which was found to be operating without Social Welfare Department oversight. The case only came to light after former residents spoke out, raising concerns about gaps in monitoring, delayed detection, and systemic failures in child protection. We discuss what needs to change with James Nayagam, chairman of Suriana Welfare Society. (Starts at 23:50) • Sungai Buloh nurseries face eviction deadline: More than 50 nursery operators in Sungai Buloh have been ordered to vacate their land by April 15 for a road widening project, raising concerns over the short timeline and lack of a confirmed relocation site. With plants requiring careful handling and no viable alternative in place, operators are calling for more time and support. We speak to Sivarajan Arumugam of Parti Sosialis Malaysia about what could happen if the eviction proceeds. (Starts at 17:17)• Civil servants set to begin WFH: Malaysia’s government will roll out a work-from-home policy for civil servants and GLC employees starting April 15, as part of the People’s Support Initiative to reduce energy use amid rising global oil prices. We discuss the good and the bad of the policy. (Starts at 11:10)• Israel's controversial death penalty: Israel’s parliament has approved legislation that would impose the death penalty on Palestinians convicted of deadly attack. Critics, including the UN and human rights groups, warn the law is discriminatory and could amount to a war crime. We speak to Saul Takahashi, visiting professor of legal studies at New York University Abu Dhabi, about what this signals for Israel’s broader intentions in the occupied territories. (Starts at 6:30)• China bans 'bone ash apartments': Authorities have outlawed the practice of storing cremated remains in residential flats, as families increasingly turn empty apartments into private ancestral shrines amid rising funeral costs and expensive cemetery plots. We discuss rising costs in the local funeral industry. (Starts at 0:23) Image Credit: Shutterstock

Top 5 at 5: Why Does Abuse in Children's Home Go Unnoticed?

Bank Negara Malaysia’s latest Economic and Monetary Review highlights that while minimum wage policies have helped low‑income earners, they have not lifted middle‑income wages proportionally. The central bank is urging the creation of new wage‑setting institutions tied to workers’ needs and productivity, citing Japan’s Shunto system as a model. We speak to economist Geoffrey Williams. (Starts at 23:36)


• Najib ordered to repay billions in civil suit: Former PM Najib Razak has been directed by the High Court to repay over USD 1.3 billion to SRC International, after being found to have abused his authority and acted as a “shadow director” in misappropriating funds meant for civil servants. The ruling, separate from his earlier criminal conviction, includes USD 120 million traced to his personal accounts. We hear thoughts from Cynthia Gabriel of C4 on public trust, and Anand Raj of the Bar Council on whether this sets a precedent for future corruption cases. (Starts at 16:27)

• SPM 2025 results released: The first Form 5 cohort to sit for SPM without UPSR or PT3 has delivered improved results, with the national average grade rising to 4.42. Over 13,700 students scored straight As, including 376 with A+. We discuss this. (Starts at 10:25)

• New laws to regulate donations: In a 2–1 majority decision, the Federal Court has dismissed appeals by PEKA Malaysia and the Shah Alam Community Forest Society, effectively allowing the degazettement of 406ha of forest land to stand. The case, marked by controversy over backdated gazette notices, has sparked years of protests over transparency and environmental risks tied to a road project. We hear from SACF’s Dr Teckwyn Lim, Treasurer of the Shah Alam Community Forest Society. (Starts at 6:02)

• Eurovision's first Asian edition: Eurovision marks its 70th anniversary with a first‑ever Asian edition in Bangkok this November. Ten countries, including Malaysia, South Korea, and the Philippines, have confirmed participation, with more expected. The launch comes amid boycotts of the main gala over Israel’s inclusion, but excitement for Asia’s debut remains high. (Starts at 0:23)


Image Credit: Pexels

*Note: This podcast picture was edited with generative AI

Bank Negara Malaysia’s latest Economic and Monetary Review highlights that while minimum wage policies have helped low‑income earners, they have not lifted middle‑income wages proportionally. The central bank is urging the creation of new wage‑setting institutions tied to workers’ needs and productivity, citing Japan’s Shunto system as a model. We speak to economist Geoffrey Williams. (Starts at 23:36) • Najib ordered to repay billions in civil suit: Former PM Najib Razak has been directed by the High Court to repay over USD 1.3 billion to SRC International, after being found to have abused his authority and acted as a “shadow director” in misappropriating funds meant for civil servants. The ruling, separate from his earlier criminal conviction, includes USD 120 million traced to his personal accounts. We hear thoughts from Cynthia Gabriel of C4 on public trust, and Anand Raj of the Bar Council on whether this sets a precedent for future corruption cases. (Starts at 16:27)• SPM 2025 results released: The first Form 5 cohort to sit for SPM without UPSR or PT3 has delivered improved results, with the national average grade rising to 4.42. Over 13,700 students scored straight As, including 376 with A+. We discuss this. (Starts at 10:25)• New laws to regulate donations: In a 2–1 majority decision, the Federal Court has dismissed appeals by PEKA Malaysia and the Shah Alam Community Forest Society, effectively allowing the degazettement of 406ha of forest land to stand. The case, marked by controversy over backdated gazette notices, has sparked years of protests over transparency and environmental risks tied to a road project. We hear from SACF’s Dr Teckwyn Lim, Treasurer of the Shah Alam Community Forest Society. (Starts at 6:02)• Eurovision's first Asian edition: Eurovision marks its 70th anniversary with a first‑ever Asian edition in Bangkok this November. Ten countries, including Malaysia, South Korea, and the Philippines, have confirmed participation, with more expected. The launch comes amid boycotts of the main gala over Israel’s inclusion, but excitement for Asia’s debut remains high. (Starts at 0:23) Image Credit: Pexels *Note: This podcast picture was edited with generative AI

Top 5 at 5: Rethinking Wages for Malaysia's Future

A man was recently killed in Klang, after a car hit his motorcycle. The car was speeding dangerously and and overtaking several vehicles before he collided with the motorcycle. The driver was later found to be driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. This has renewed calls for stricter measures, including the death penalty in cases where DUI leads to fatalities. We discuss the right way to go. (Starts at 21:56)


• Journalist arrest sparks concern: Kalidas Subramaniam, from Tamil news portal Thinathant, was arrested last week at a factory construction site in Kulim. Many have spoken out against his arrest, including the Malaysian Media Council. We hear thoughts from Nalini Elumalai, senior program officer at Article 19 and Watshlah Naidu, Executive Director of the Centre for Independent Journalism. (Starts at 16:37)

• Touts at KLCC: Complaints of unlicensed photographers harassing tourists at KLCC have escalated into scuffles, arrests, and calls for tougher enforcement. Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh With reports of exorbitant charges, aggressive tactics, and even violence, along with KL Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud have promised tighter patrols and penalties. (Starts at 11:00)

• New laws to regulate donations: The MACC has proposed new laws to regulate fundraising and donations, including a Royal Charities Commission. The move comes after a series of investigations into NGOs accused of misusing public donations. We speak to Arief Hamizan, head of research and policy advocacy of C4, or the Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism, on what needs to be considered when regulating NGOs. (Starts at 5:42)

• The KitKat heist: More than 400,000 KitKats (that's 12 tonnes of chocolate) vanished after leaving Nestlé’s factory in Italy. Nestlé insists supply is unaffected, even saying the thieves showed “exceptional taste.” But this points to a more serious problem of cargo theft, especially those targeting food. We talk about what this heist means for producers and consumers. (Starts at 0:23)


Image Credit: Pexels

A man was recently killed in Klang, after a car hit his motorcycle. The car was speeding dangerously and and overtaking several vehicles before he collided with the motorcycle. The driver was later found to be driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. This has renewed calls for stricter measures, including the death penalty in cases where DUI leads to fatalities. We discuss the right way to go. (Starts at 21:56) • Journalist arrest sparks concern: Kalidas Subramaniam, from Tamil news portal Thinathant, was arrested last week at a factory construction site in Kulim. Many have spoken out against his arrest, including the Malaysian Media Council. We hear thoughts from Nalini Elumalai, senior program officer at Article 19 and Watshlah Naidu, Executive Director of the Centre for Independent Journalism. (Starts at 16:37)• Touts at KLCC: Complaints of unlicensed photographers harassing tourists at KLCC have escalated into scuffles, arrests, and calls for tougher enforcement. Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh With reports of exorbitant charges, aggressive tactics, and even violence, along with KL Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud have promised tighter patrols and penalties. (Starts at 11:00)• New laws to regulate donations: The MACC has proposed new laws to regulate fundraising and donations, including a Royal Charities Commission. The move comes after a series of investigations into NGOs accused of misusing public donations. We speak to Arief Hamizan, head of research and policy advocacy of C4, or the Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism, on what needs to be considered when regulating NGOs. (Starts at 5:42)• The KitKat heist: More than 400,000 KitKats (that's 12 tonnes of chocolate) vanished after leaving Nestlé’s factory in Italy. Nestlé insists supply is unaffected, even saying the thieves showed “exceptional taste.” But this points to a more serious problem of cargo theft, especially those targeting food. We talk about what this heist means for producers and consumers. (Starts at 0:23) Image Credit: Pexels

Top 5 at 5: Fatal Klang DUI Sparks Calls for Stricter Measure

Human rights NGO Pusat Komas has released their annual Malaysia Racism Report, a comprehensive documentation of racial and religious discrimination across the country across all sectors. The report reveals that last year was the highest number of cases involving racism nationwide since reporting started 11 years ago. We discuss the reasons for this increase and discuss systemic policy-based solutions with Jerald Joseph, director of Pusat KOMAS. (Starts at 25:23)


• Malaysian activist deported from Singapore: Activist and lawyer Fadiah Nadwa Zikri was invited to be a guest speaker at a lecture in National University of Singapore’s Southeast Asian Studies department. However, she was denied entry into the country because the Singapore government accused her of allegedly inciting local activists to break the law and use violence. We hear from Fadiah herself on how the incident played out. We also unpack Singapore's approach to political advocacy with Khoo Ying Hooi, Associate Professor at the Department of International and Strategic Studies from Universiti Malaya. (Starts at 19:04)

• FBI director's personal emails hacked by Iran-linked hackers: The data derived from Kash Patel's email included mostly old personal holiday photos and over 300 emails. Observers noted that this was part of a broader strategy from Iran to make the US appear more vulnerable. We discuss the impact of this leak. (Starts at 13:14)

• Where are Malaysia's 'loaned' elephants?: Questions have been growing over the fate of 19 loaned elephants after claims circulated that they had been sold to a circus. Perhilitan clarified that the elephants were loaned as part of conservation and wildlife efforts, though the lack of transparency surrounding the situation has become a cause for concern for the public. We speak to Rajesh Nagarajan, President of Pertubuhan Pelindung Khazanah Alam - one of the groups raising concerns about the issue. (Starts at 6:30)

• Bella Said Yes!: Over the weekend, it was announced that actress-singer Bella Astillah and Muar MP Syed Saddiq got engaged. Their engagement ceremony also happened to much fanfare and it drew widespread reactions - both positive and negative - from netizens. We unpack this. (Starts at 0:23)


Image Credit: Shutterstock

Human rights NGO Pusat Komas has released their annual Malaysia Racism Report, a comprehensive documentation of racial and religious discrimination across the country across all sectors. The report reveals that last year was the highest number of cases involving racism nationwide since reporting started 11 years ago. We discuss the reasons for this increase and discuss systemic policy-based solutions with Jerald Joseph, director of Pusat KOMAS. (Starts at 25:23) • Malaysian activist deported from Singapore: Activist and lawyer Fadiah Nadwa Zikri was invited to be a guest speaker at a lecture in National University of Singapore’s Southeast Asian Studies department. However, she was denied entry into the country because the Singapore government accused her of allegedly inciting local activists to break the law and use violence. We hear from Fadiah herself on how the incident played out. We also unpack Singapore's approach to political advocacy with Khoo Ying Hooi, Associate Professor at the Department of International and Strategic Studies from Universiti Malaya. (Starts at 19:04)• FBI director's personal emails hacked by Iran-linked hackers: The data derived from Kash Patel's email included mostly old personal holiday photos and over 300 emails. Observers noted that this was part of a broader strategy from Iran to make the US appear more vulnerable. We discuss the impact of this leak. (Starts at 13:14)• Where are Malaysia's 'loaned' elephants?: Questions have been growing over the fate of 19 loaned elephants after claims circulated that they had been sold to a circus. Perhilitan clarified that the elephants were loaned as part of conservation and wildlife efforts, though the lack of transparency surrounding the situation has become a cause for concern for the public. We speak to Rajesh Nagarajan, President of Pertubuhan Pelindung Khazanah Alam - one of the groups raising concerns about the issue. (Starts at 6:30)• Bella Said Yes!: Over the weekend, it was announced that actress-singer Bella Astillah and Muar MP Syed Saddiq got engaged. Their engagement ceremony also happened to much fanfare and it drew widespread reactions - both positive and negative - from netizens. We unpack this. (Starts at 0:23) Image Credit: Shutterstock

Top 5 at 5: Is Racism in Malaysia Getting Worse?

US and Israel's war on Iran has caused the closure of the Strait of Hormuz which resulted in an energy crisis in many parts of the world, Malaysia included. And while the government has begun to take measures to cushion the impact on consumers and preserve our energy supply, Malaysia will soon have to reckon with dwindling supply and war-time price spikes. We discuss the state of our energy security with S. Piarapakaran, President of the Association of Water and Energy Research Malaysia (AWER) & Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Water and Energy Sustainability (CWES). (Starts at 24:01)


• Fuel subsidies adjusted again: This comes from a special announcement Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim made yesterday. Starting April 1st, the monthly subsidised quota for Budi95 will be reduced from 300 litres to 200 litres. RON97 and diesel prices will also be increased to RM5.15 and RM5.52 per litre respectively. We hear a conversation from Beyond the Ballot Box where Yin Shao Loong, Deputy Director of Research at Khazanah Research Institute discusses if the measure is sustainable. We also reached out to transportation consultant Wan Agyl Wan Hassan to find out how diesel price changes will affect industries. (Starts at 18:21)

• Who pays for the past?: The UN General Assembly has just voted to officially recognise the enslavement of Africans during the transatlantic slave trade as the “gravest crime against humanity”. The resolution was almost unanimously agreed upon, save for a few countries like the US, Israel and Argentina. Though its a symbolic move, it raises the questions about how countries deal with historical injustices in the present, what does accountability look like, and who decides? We get into it. (Starts at 12:51)

• How the heatwave is affecting workers: Malaysia has been experiencing a heatwave that is expected to last until June, with northern states projected to hit temperature highs of 40 degrees. A coalition of trade unions known as the Building and Woodworkers’ International Malaysia Liaison Council wanted to shed some light on the way this will affect outdoor workers. We hear their concerns and unpack their demands with Wong Yan Ke, Building and Woodworkers’ International Asia-Pacific Regional Climate & Forestry Officer. Read the full report for more information. (Starts at 6:13)

• OpenAI deal with Disney dead in the water: OpenAI canceled a planned billion-dollar deal with Disney for its Sora video generation AI, citing a strategic shift towards "agentic" AI capable of performing real-world tasks. Since its launch, Sora has faced criticism for generating misinformation and copyright violations. Hollywood critics also voiced concerns over AI replacing human talent and the potential decline in artistic originality. We discuss. (Starts at 0:23)


Image Credit: Shutterstock

US and Israel's war on Iran has caused the closure of the Strait of Hormuz which resulted in an energy crisis in many parts of the world, Malaysia included. And while the government has begun to take measures to cushion the impact on consumers and preserve our energy supply, Malaysia will soon have to reckon with dwindling supply and war-time price spikes. We discuss the state of our energy security with S. Piarapakaran, President of the Association of Water and Energy Research Malaysia (AWER) &amp; Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Water and Energy Sustainability (CWES). (Starts at 24:01) • Fuel subsidies adjusted again: This comes from a special announcement Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim made yesterday. Starting April 1st, the monthly subsidised quota for Budi95 will be reduced from 300 litres to 200 litres. RON97 and diesel prices will also be increased to RM5.15 and RM5.52 per litre respectively. We hear a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.bfm.my/content/podcast/oil-shocks-to-inflation-how-should-malaysia-respond-to-the-usisraeliran-war">conversation</a> from Beyond the Ballot Box where Yin Shao Loong, Deputy Director of Research at Khazanah Research Institute discusses if the measure is sustainable. We also reached out to transportation consultant Wan Agyl Wan Hassan to find out how diesel price changes will affect industries. (Starts at 18:21)• Who pays for the past?: The UN General Assembly has just voted to officially recognise the enslavement of Africans during the transatlantic slave trade as the “gravest crime against humanity”. The resolution was almost unanimously agreed upon, save for a few countries like the US, Israel and Argentina. Though its a symbolic move, it raises the questions about how countries deal with historical injustices in the present, what does accountability look like, and who decides? We get into it. (Starts at 12:51)• How the heatwave is affecting workers: Malaysia has been experiencing a heatwave that is expected to last until June, with northern states projected to hit temperature highs of 40 degrees. A coalition of trade unions known as the Building and Woodworkers’ International Malaysia Liaison Council wanted to shed some light on the way this will affect outdoor workers. We hear their concerns and unpack their demands with Wong Yan Ke, Building and Woodworkers’ International Asia-Pacific Regional Climate &amp; Forestry Officer. Read the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.bwint.org/BwiNews/NewsDetails?newsId=568">full report</a> for more information. (Starts at 6:13)• OpenAI deal with Disney dead in the water: OpenAI canceled a planned billion-dollar deal with Disney for its Sora video generation AI, citing a strategic shift towards "agentic" AI capable of performing real-world tasks. Since its launch, Sora has faced criticism for generating misinformation and copyright violations. Hollywood critics also voiced concerns over AI replacing human talent and the potential decline in artistic originality. We discuss. (Starts at 0:23) Image Credit: Shutterstock

Top 5 at 5: Malaysia's Surprise Energy Crisis Following Iran War

In an effort to boost their energy capacity and security amidst conflict in the Middle East which has affected global power supply, Vietnam has signed an agreement with Russia for the construction of two Russian-designed power plants to be built in Hanoi. We break down the significance of this deal, Vietnam's power shortage issues and if this will encourage more Southeast Asian countries to pursue nuclear deals with global leaders. (Starts at 22:47)


• Changes to Sarawak's legislative assembly: The assembly recently approved an increase in state seats from 82 to 99, but civil society organisations have expressed concern that this is another tactic for the ruling coalition, Gabungan Parti Sarawak to consolidate more power. We hear from Danesh Prakash Chacko, chairperson of TINDAK Society for his take on the situation. (Starts at 17:26)

• Fans from some countries 'banned' from World Cup?: Ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America, the US government expanded a visa bond program that requires about 50 countries, predominantly in African countries, to submit deposits between $5,000 and $15,000 to enter the US legally. And while players are able to secure a waiver, it is unclear if supporters of their country and family members will be allowed to physically be in the stadiums to watch the matches. We discuss. (Starts at 11:39)

• Meta and YouTube designed to be addictive: Meta and YouTube have been found liable for deliberately designing addictive products that hooked a young user and led to her being harmed. This was the result of a landmark social media addiction trial in Los Angeles. Dr Benjamin Loh, course director for the Bachelor of Digital Media & Communication at Monash University Malaysia joins us to unpack if this verdict will have long-term effects on the way platforms are designed. (Starts at 5:50)

• More Malaysian words added to Oxford dictionary: Another year, another set of Malaysian-isms that Oxford Language has added to their catalogue. This time around, words like agak-agak, jialat and kaypoh were added, among others. We discuss. (Starts at 0:23)


Image Credit: Shutterstock

In an effort to boost their energy capacity and security amidst conflict in the Middle East which has affected global power supply, Vietnam has signed an agreement with Russia for the construction of two Russian-designed power plants to be built in Hanoi. We break down the significance of this deal, Vietnam's power shortage issues and if this will encourage more Southeast Asian countries to pursue nuclear deals with global leaders. (Starts at 22:47) • Changes to Sarawak's legislative assembly: The assembly recently approved an increase in state seats from 82 to 99, but civil society organisations have expressed concern that this is another tactic for the ruling coalition, Gabungan Parti Sarawak to consolidate more power. We hear from Danesh Prakash Chacko, chairperson of TINDAK Society for his take on the situation. (Starts at 17:26)• Fans from some countries 'banned' from World Cup?: Ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America, the US government expanded a visa bond program that requires about 50 countries, predominantly in African countries, to submit deposits between $5,000 and $15,000 to enter the US legally. And while players are able to secure a waiver, it is unclear if supporters of their country and family members will be allowed to physically be in the stadiums to watch the matches. We discuss. (Starts at 11:39)• Meta and YouTube designed to be addictive: Meta and YouTube have been found liable for deliberately designing addictive products that hooked a young user and led to her being harmed. This was the result of a landmark social media addiction trial in Los Angeles. Dr Benjamin Loh, course director for the Bachelor of Digital Media &amp; Communication at Monash University Malaysia joins us to unpack if this verdict will have long-term effects on the way platforms are designed. (Starts at 5:50)• More Malaysian words added to Oxford dictionary: Another year, another set of Malaysian-isms that Oxford Language has added to their catalogue. This time around, words like agak-agak, jialat and kaypoh were added, among others. We discuss. (Starts at 0:23) Image Credit: Shutterstock

Top 5 at 5: Vietnam and Russia Ink Nuclear Power Plant Deal

Marine life experts reported an over 90% decline in fish species over the years, including common household fish like snappers, mackerel and stingrays. We speak about the cause of this decline, and discuss habitat protection methods with Amy Then, Associate Professor at the Institute of Biological Sciences, University Malaya. (Starts at 23:18)


• Sarawak communities unhappy with dam project: Sarawak is looking to expand its hydropower ambitions through a series of dams across five river systems. This plan is receiving pushback from Indigenous communities, citing environmental concerns and a lack of consultation during the planning process, among others. We unpack these concerns with Celine Lim, managing director of SAVE Rivers. (Starts at 17:13)

• Fruit and vegetables rise in prices: Analysts believe prices could go up by 50% in the next couple of weeks and it's all due to our reliance on imported fertilisers, which has been experiencing a block in distribution due to the disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. We talk about the small ways we are staying mindful when spending on fruits and veggies. (Starts at 12:55)

• Iran talks underway, or not?: On day 25 of the US-Israeli war on Iran, US President Donald Trump showed optimism that Iranian officials were receptive to a proposed peace deal. Though, Iran claims no talks happened whatsoever. This follows a 48 ultimatum posed by Trump that demanded Iran unblock the Strait of Hormuz, which ultimately failed. We break down these latest updates with Samriddhi Vij, Associate Fellow of Geopolitics at ORF Middle East. (Starts at 4:21)

• Online dictionary to preserve Kadazan language: The Kadazandusun Language Foundation worked with local communities and educational institutions to develop the The Kadazan-English-Malay Webonary, an accessible digital dictionary aimed to provide translations for the minority language. We discuss. (Starts at 0:22)


Image Credit: Shutterstock

Marine life experts reported an over 90% decline in fish species over the years, including common household fish like snappers, mackerel and stingrays. We speak about the cause of this decline, and discuss habitat protection methods with Amy Then, Associate Professor at the Institute of Biological Sciences, University Malaya. (Starts at 23:18) • Sarawak communities unhappy with dam project: Sarawak is looking to expand its hydropower ambitions through a series of dams across five river systems. This plan is receiving pushback from Indigenous communities, citing environmental concerns and a lack of consultation during the planning process, among others. We unpack these concerns with Celine Lim, managing director of SAVE Rivers. (Starts at 17:13)• Fruit and vegetables rise in prices: Analysts believe prices could go up by 50% in the next couple of weeks and it's all due to our reliance on imported fertilisers, which has been experiencing a block in distribution due to the disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. We talk about the small ways we are staying mindful when spending on fruits and veggies. (Starts at 12:55)• Iran talks underway, or not?: On day 25 of the US-Israeli war on Iran, US President Donald Trump showed optimism that Iranian officials were receptive to a proposed peace deal. Though, Iran claims no talks happened whatsoever. This follows a 48 ultimatum posed by Trump that demanded Iran unblock the Strait of Hormuz, which ultimately failed. We break down these latest updates with Samriddhi Vij, Associate Fellow of Geopolitics at ORF Middle East. (Starts at 4:21)• Online dictionary to preserve Kadazan language: The Kadazandusun Language Foundation worked with local communities and educational institutions to develop the The Kadazan-English-Malay Webonary, an accessible digital dictionary aimed to provide translations for the minority language. We discuss. (Starts at 0:22) Image Credit: Shutterstock

Top 5 at 5: Malaysia Faces Decline in Fish

The recent Corruption Perceptions Index report from Transparency International found that Malaysia slightly improved in our perceived level of public sector corruption for 2025. We get an inside look at the function of the special task force appointed by the government to manage this result with Sivamurugan Pandian. He details the reform plan the government has set out to improve our rankings for following years. (Starts at 22:00)


• Tobacco industry players court FT Mufti office: Multinational tobacco company Philip Morris Malaysia met with FT Mufti Ahmad Fauwaz Fadzil for a discussion about the Islamic legal rulings of the use of conventional and alternative cigarettes. This meeting was panned by anti-tobacco groups who said the tobacco industry is interfering in public health policies. We hear from Muhammad Sha’ani bin Abdullah, Secretary General of the Malaysian Council for Tobacco Control about the optics of the visit. (Starts at 15:29)

• Fireworks wreak havoc across country: A few reports emerged over the Hari Raya weekend detailing firework stalls in Johor and Penang catching fire and damaging public property, vehicles and compromising the safety of locals. We discuss these outcomes and weigh the pros and cons of fireworks. (Starts at 9:59)

• It's getting hot in here: METMalaysia classified 14 regions in Malaysia as being hit with a Level 1 heatwave, while 3 regions in Kedah are experiencing more severe high temperatures. We get updates on the heatwave with Encik Ruzamin Pilus, Assistant Director of the National Weather and Earthquake Operations Centre at METMalaysia. Meanwhile, the agency also announced the adoption of AI technology to their weather monitoring system. We hear from climate change and sustainability specialist Dr Renard Siew for his thoughts on the method. (Starts at 5:06)

• Can you see through corporate jargon?: A study from Cornell University found that employees who believe and are impressed by corporate jargon are less likely to make effective practical business decisions. They were also underperforming compared to other employees. We discuss why people are likely to fall for bombastic, albeit meaningless vernacular. (Starts at 0:22)


Image Credit: Shutterstock

*Note: This podcast picture was edited with generative AI

The recent Corruption Perceptions Index report from Transparency International found that Malaysia slightly improved in our perceived level of public sector corruption for 2025. We get an inside look at the function of the special task force appointed by the government to manage this result with Sivamurugan Pandian. He details the reform plan the government has set out to improve our rankings for following years. (Starts at 22:00) • Tobacco industry players court FT Mufti office: Multinational tobacco company Philip Morris Malaysia met with FT Mufti Ahmad Fauwaz Fadzil for a discussion about the Islamic legal rulings of the use of conventional and alternative cigarettes. This meeting was panned by anti-tobacco groups who said the tobacco industry is interfering in public health policies. We hear from Muhammad Sha’ani bin Abdullah, Secretary General of the Malaysian Council for Tobacco Control about the optics of the visit. (Starts at 15:29)• Fireworks wreak havoc across country: A few reports emerged over the Hari Raya weekend detailing firework stalls in Johor and Penang catching fire and damaging public property, vehicles and compromising the safety of locals. We discuss these outcomes and weigh the pros and cons of fireworks. (Starts at 9:59)• It's getting hot in here: METMalaysia classified 14 regions in Malaysia as being hit with a Level 1 heatwave, while 3 regions in Kedah are experiencing more severe high temperatures. We get updates on the heatwave with Encik Ruzamin Pilus, Assistant Director of the National Weather and Earthquake Operations Centre at METMalaysia. Meanwhile, the agency also announced the adoption of AI technology to their weather monitoring system. We hear from climate change and sustainability specialist Dr Renard Siew for his thoughts on the method. (Starts at 5:06)• Can you see through corporate jargon?: A study from Cornell University found that employees who believe and are impressed by corporate jargon are less likely to make effective practical business decisions. They were also underperforming compared to other employees. We discuss why people are likely to fall for bombastic, albeit meaningless vernacular. (Starts at 0:22) Image Credit: Shutterstock*Note: This podcast picture was edited with generative AI

Top 5 at 5: The Function of the Corruption Perception Index Task Force

MOH is probing claims that foreign patients at Hospital Kuala Lumpur dodge deposits using emergency Lampiran A forms. Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad clarified the form only allows life‑saving treatment, not fee waivers, amid concerns over RM102 million in unpaid bills since 2023. We get into it with Associate Professor Dr Tharani Loganathan, public health specialist from Universiti Malaya. (Starts at 22:41)


• Court rules minister acted with bias: The KL High Court has ruled that former human resources minister Steven Sim acted with bias when he intervened in a trade dispute between banks and employees over Hari Raya aid payments in 2024. We speak to employment lawyer Sunitha Ruthram and Sivaranjani Manickam, secretary general of Parti Sosialis Malaysia about this. (Starts at 15:22)

• AI professor to lecture parents: A young woman in China has created “Mr Zhao,” an AI professor persona with over 200,000 followers, designed to lecture parents against pseudoscience and outdated values. Though entirely fictional, Mr Zhao’s authoritative posts have influenced real behavior, persuading parents to quit smoking to inspiring others to build similar AI figures. We dive into cultural communication gaps and whether such tools amount to guidance or manipulation. (Starts at 11:06)

• Trump allies threatens media over Middle East coverage: Donald Trump and his allies have escalated attacks on US media over coverage of the Middle East conflict, with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth accusing CNN of lying and demanding “patriotic” headlines. FCC chair Brendan Carr warned outlets could lose their licenses, while Trump suggested treason charges for news organisations (a penalty that carries the death sentence under US law). We hear thoughts from political scientist Derick Becker. (Starts at 5:31)

• Raya greeting cards make a comeback: And it's all due to Norain Mohamad Hadi, who recently started her own collection of Raya cards. Speaking to Free Malaysia Today, she shares that she sends them to her friends and public personalities, including royalty. We explore the sentimental value of physical cards. (Starts at 0:23)


Image Credit: Shutterstock

MOH is probing claims that foreign patients at Hospital Kuala Lumpur dodge deposits using emergency Lampiran A forms. Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad clarified the form only allows life‑saving treatment, not fee waivers, amid concerns over RM102 million in unpaid bills since 2023. We get into it with Associate Professor Dr Tharani Loganathan, public health specialist from Universiti Malaya. (Starts at 22:41) • Court rules minister acted with bias: The KL High Court has ruled that former human resources minister Steven Sim acted with bias when he intervened in a trade dispute between banks and employees over Hari Raya aid payments in 2024. We speak to employment lawyer Sunitha Ruthram and Sivaranjani Manickam, secretary general of Parti Sosialis Malaysia about this. (Starts at 15:22)• AI professor to lecture parents: A young woman in China has created “Mr Zhao,” an AI professor persona with over 200,000 followers, designed to lecture parents against pseudoscience and outdated values. Though entirely fictional, Mr Zhao’s authoritative posts have influenced real behavior, persuading parents to quit smoking to inspiring others to build similar AI figures. We dive into cultural communication gaps and whether such tools amount to guidance or manipulation. (Starts at 11:06)• Trump allies threatens media over Middle East coverage: Donald Trump and his allies have escalated attacks on US media over coverage of the Middle East conflict, with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth accusing CNN of lying and demanding “patriotic” headlines. FCC chair Brendan Carr warned outlets could lose their licenses, while Trump suggested treason charges for news organisations (a penalty that carries the death sentence under US law). We hear thoughts from political scientist Derick Becker. (Starts at 5:31)• Raya greeting cards make a comeback: And it's all due to Norain Mohamad Hadi, who recently started her own collection of Raya cards. Speaking to Free Malaysia Today, she shares that she sends them to her friends and public personalities, including royalty. We explore the sentimental value of physical cards. (Starts at 0:23) Image Credit: Shutterstock

Top 5 at 5: Why Are Foreigners Dodging Hospital Bills?

A countdown of the 5 biggest stories of the day, to catch you up on all you need to know!

Top 5 At 5

Social links:

Follow the podcast:

417 clip(s)