A look at China’s growing global influence through brands and commerce and whether that translates into real soft power, rising concerns over climate tipping points like the potential collapse of the AMOC, and Malaysia’s widening shortage of veterinarians and what it means for public health, food security, and the broader economy.

Image Credit: Shutterstock

A look at China’s growing global influence through brands and commerce and whether that translates into real soft power, rising concerns over climate tipping points like the potential collapse of the AMOC, and Malaysia’s widening shortage of veterinarians and what it means for public health, food security, and the broader economy. Image Credit: Shutterstock

The Morning Run crew condenses the top conversations from the week, and keeps you clued in on the stories you might have missed. 

What's the Focus

China’s Soft Power, Climate Risks & Vet Shortage

This week's WTF explores how technology and changing habits are reshaping the way we live and work. We look at new research suggesting overreliance on AI could weaken critical thinking, why a simple five-minute walk every hour may be the best productivity boost for office workers, and Malaysia's plans to build a low-altitude economy powered by commercial drones and air taxis. Plus, our weekly recommendations from the team.

Image Credit: Shutterstock

This week's WTF explores how technology and changing habits are reshaping the way we live and work. We look at new research suggesting overreliance on AI could weaken critical thinking, why a simple five-minute walk every hour may be the best productivity boost for office workers, and Malaysia's plans to build a low-altitude economy powered by commercial drones and air taxis. Plus, our weekly recommendations from the team. Image Credit: Shutterstock

AI, Air Taxis, and the Five-Minute Fix

This week’s WTF spans everything from football and space exploration to technology and public policy. We look at the controversies surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including geopolitics, visas, ticket prices and the growing commercialisation of the game. We also examine NASA’s Artemis programme as delays raise questions about America’s return to the Moon and its race with China. Back home, we discuss Malaysia’s new AI-driven motor insurance scheme and whether lower premiums for safe drivers come with new concerns over transparency, fairness and data governance.

Image Credit: Shutterstock

This week’s WTF spans everything from football and space exploration to technology and public policy. We look at the controversies surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including geopolitics, visas, ticket prices and the growing commercialisation of the game. We also examine NASA’s Artemis programme as delays raise questions about America’s return to the Moon and its race with China. Back home, we discuss Malaysia’s new AI-driven motor insurance scheme and whether lower premiums for safe drivers come with new concerns over transparency, fairness and data governance. Image Credit: Shutterstock

WTF: From the Moon to the World Cup

This week on What’s the Focus, we explore three stories that highlight how trust is being tested in very different ways. First, intelligence agencies from the Five Eyes alliance are warning that professional networking platforms may be used to recruit individuals with access to sensitive information, raising fresh questions about digital security and espionage. Then we examine how YouTube has evolved from a video-sharing platform into a genuine challenger to traditional streaming giants, reshaping the battle for audiences, advertising, and attention. Finally, we look at Malaysia’s growing shortage of radiographers and why a lack of these highly trained healthcare professionals could have serious consequences for diagnostic capacity, patient care, and the future of the healthcare system.

Image Credit: Shutterstock

This week on What’s the Focus, we explore three stories that highlight how trust is being tested in very different ways. First, intelligence agencies from the Five Eyes alliance are warning that professional networking platforms may be used to recruit individuals with access to sensitive information, raising fresh questions about digital security and espionage. Then we examine how YouTube has evolved from a video-sharing platform into a genuine challenger to traditional streaming giants, reshaping the battle for audiences, advertising, and attention. Finally, we look at Malaysia’s growing shortage of radiographers and why a lack of these highly trained healthcare professionals could have serious consequences for diagnostic capacity, patient care, and the future of the healthcare system. Image Credit: Shutterstock

China’s Soft Power, Climate Risks & Vet Shortage

What's the Focus

In 1 playlist(s)

What's the Focus

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips