The credibility of the rules-based order, he stressed, “depends on consistency.”

His remarks come as tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States continue to reverberate across the Middle East , raising concerns among Asian governments over potential spillover effects on trade, energy security and regional stability.

Anwar reaffirmed Iran’s right to defend its sovereignty under international law, particularly in the context of continued Israeli strikes on Iranian territory and in Lebanon. At the same time, he called on all parties to exercise “maximum restraint” to avoid widening the conflict .

Moreover, the Malaysian premier warned of the risk that neighbouring Gulf states could be drawn further into the crisis, stressing that civilian populations and critical infrastructure in the region must be protected.

“The Gulf states, the region and the world have much at stake — economically, socially and in terms of long-term stability — and their peoples must not bear the consequences of decisions taken elsewhere,” he said.

Heaps praise for Pakistan’s mediation efforts

Alongside his criticism, Anwar signalled support for renewed diplomatic efforts. He welcomed Pakistan’s offer to host dialogue between Washington and Tehran, describing it as a “timely and constructive” initiative, and praised similar earlier efforts by Oman and other countries.

Malaysia supports such initiatives, he said, but cautioned that any negotiations must be anchored on a “clear commitment to ending the conflict”, rather than serving as temporary pauses.

“The international community has seen too many ceasefires that function as pauses rather than conclusions. The region deserves something more durable,” he said.

Anwar added that he had held discussions with leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council, Türkiye, Egypt, Indonesia, Japan and Pakistan to advocate de-escalation, saying Malaysia would continue to support efforts towards a “just and lasting peace.”

“Of course, we want to celebrate ( Aidilfitri ), but I would like to urge moderation,” Anwar said, according to Bernama. “Look at the wars taking place, do not assume nothing will happen. They are disrupting oil and gas… So we must save a little.” He suggested scaling back festive food preparations, including making fewer types of kuih and less ketupat.

Anwar, who is also finance minister, said a thrifty approach was needed as supply chain strains and higher prices continued to weigh on households. His remarks came as the government had already moved to cushion holiday costs, including announcing an additional public holiday and a 15-day festive season price control scheme for essential goods.

The Middle East conflict was not the only strain hanging over Ramadan in Malaysia this year. 

Health authorities also warned of a rise in tuberculosis cases during a period marked by packed bazaars, communal iftar meals and other crowded gatherings.

Malaysia recorded 596 new tuberculosis infections in Epidemiological Week 6 of 2026, bringing the national total to 3,161 cases so far this year, according to health ministry figures cited in multiple local reports. The increase was 9.8 per cent from the same period a year earlier, with Sabah recording the highest number of cases, followed by Selangor and Sarawak.

Officials said the increase partly reflected better screening and case detection, not only higher transmission. Still, the ministry urged vigilance, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. Tuberculosis is spread through the air and remains a public health concern during large gatherings, even though Ramadan activities themselves do not directly cause infection.

Together, the economic warning and the health alert gave this year’s Ramadan and Aidilfitri period in Malaysia a more cautious tone than usual.

“He was our imam and leader,” said a Malaysian Shi’ite who identified himself only as Zulfikar , describing Khamenei as a representative of the awaited Imam Mahdi in Shi’ite belief.

Small groups of Shi’ite adherents gathered outside the US embassy in Kuala Lumpur shortly after the strike, chanting slogans against the United States and holding portraits of the late Iranian leader.

But the reaction across Malaysia’s broader Muslim community has been far from uniform.

Malaysia officially recognises only Sunni Islam. Shi’ite teachings have been classified as a “deviant sect” since a 1996 religious ruling, and the spread of the doctrine among Muslims is prohibited.

Sympathy for Khamenei raises eyebrows

Muslims make up the majority of Malaysia’s population . The United States government estimates the country’s population at about 34.2 million as of mid-2023. According to Malaysia’s 2020 national census, around 63.5 per cent of residents identify as Muslim.

The rest of the population follows other faiths, including Buddhism (18.7 per cent), Christianity (9.1 per cent) and Hinduism (6.1 per cent), while smaller groups identify as atheists or adhere to religions such as Sikhism, Taoism and the Baha’i faith. 

Almost all Muslims in Malaysia practise Sunni Islam of the Shafi’i school, which forms the country’s dominant religious tradition.

Because of this, expressions of sympathy for Khamenei have sparked debate among many Sunni Malaysians.

Some prominent Muslim leaders offered condolences and described the Iranian leader as a martyr, a term in Islam traditionally used for those who die in a holy struggle. Their remarks drew criticism online from Malaysians who questioned how the leader of a sect considered deviant could be honoured in that way.

The differing responses highlight a long-standing tension in Malaysia, where Shi’ite Muslims have faced decades of scrutiny and restrictions.

Community representatives say Shi’ite followers have been questioned by religious authorities and security forces, while raids on gatherings and closures of Shi’ite-linked centres have occurred in the past.

Muslim sects in Malaysia

Because of this, some Shi’ite religious activities are conducted quietly, including prayer sessions and discussions held online.

At the same time, the wider conflict involving Iran has shaped how many Malaysians view the killing of its leader.

Malaysia’s government condemned the strike, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim calling the attack hypocritical and criticising Western countries for what he described as double standards on human rights.

“I would like to express condolences to the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Khamenei and his family; the leaders as well as the education community who were killed by the bomb attack by Israel and the United States,” Ibrahim said . 

However, reactions among ordinary Malaysians remain divided.

While some expressed sympathy for Iran and anger at the United States and Israel, others welcomed the strike online, citing Iran’s role in regional conflicts such as the Syrian civil war.

The move consolidates leadership of the diversified conglomerate within the founding family as the group enters a new phase.

In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, Berjaya confirmed the leadership change, while a company statement described Tan’s appointment as the start of a “new chapter of leadership” for the group.

“As we move forward in 2026, a new chapter of leadership unfolds at Berjaya Corporation Berhad. At the helm is Ms. Nerine Tan, now serving as Chief Executive Officer, bringing clarity of vision and steadfast leadership as the group looks to the future,” the company said.

Who is Nerine Tan?

Tan brings more than 25 years of experience in sales and operations, marketing strategy and business development across multiple industries within the group.

She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in management from the London School of Economics.

Within the Berjaya group, Tan currently serves as chief executive officer of Sports Toto Berhad and holds directorships in several privately held companies under the conglomerate.

She has also led sales strategies at STM Lottery Sdn Bhd since 2007, overseeing operations through challenges including illegal gaming activities and the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Berjaya said Tan’s leadership will focus on strengthening the group’s core operations while enhancing organisational agility as it navigates changing business conditions.

“Her leadership reflects a deep understanding of people , markets and the evolving dynamics of business,” the company said.

The leadership transition reinforces the role of the Tan family in steering the conglomerate founded by Vincent Tan, one of Malaysia’s best-known businessmen.

Tan remains a major shareholder of Berjaya Corporation, while Nerine Tan’s sister, Chryseis Tan Sheik Ling, serves as an executive director of the company.

Nerine Tan also sits on Berjaya’s sustainability committee.

Berjaya Corporation has interests spanning gaming, hospitality, property, retail and food and beverage, making it one of Malaysia’s most diversified business groups.

The appointment formally places the next generation of the founding family in charge of the conglomerate’s future direction.

This narrow waterway between Iran and Oman carried about 13 million barrels a day of crude in 2025 — roughly 31% of global seaborne crude flows — according to energy consultancy Kpler.

Any impact, however, will be uneven across Asia, with the most exposed economies those that rely heavily on imported energy or Middle Eastern supplies.

Thailand

Thailand stands out as one of the most vulnerable economies in the region.

Nomura said Thailand’s net oil imports amount to about 4.7% of gross domestic product (GDP), the highest share in Asia. The Japanese investment bank estimates that every 10% rise in oil prices could worsen Thailand’s current account balance by around 0.5 percentage points of GDP.

Research from Bank of America Global Research paints a similar picture, describing Thailand as having Asia’s largest negative energy trade balance. Net energy imports were estimated at about 6% of GDP in 2025, leaving the country particularly exposed to swings in global oil and gas prices.

Thailand imports roughly $29 billion worth of oil annually, with more than $17 billion sourced from the Middle East.

South Korea

South Korea is also highly exposed due to its near-total reliance on imported fossil fuels.

About 98% of the country’s oil and gas consumption comes from overseas, according to the US Energy Information Administration. Disruptions to shipping routes or sustained price increases therefore pose significant risks to both its economy and financial markets.

Those concerns were reflected in South Korea’s stock market this week. The benchmark Kospi index plunged more than 12% in early trading on Wednesday amid fears that escalating conflict in the Middle East could disrupt global energy supplies and trade.

Shipping and logistics companies were among the hardest hit as tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz slowed sharply.

India

India is also considered vulnerable because of its heavy reliance on imported energy.

Nomura identified India among the Asian economies most exposed to higher oil prices, warning that sustained increases could significantly raise the country’s import bill.

In addition to higher crude costs, India could also face pressure from rising LNG prices as Asia competes with Europe for limited supplies if shipments through the Strait of Hormuz remain constrained.

Philippines

The Philippines faces particular exposure through its reliance on Middle Eastern crude.

Bank of America Global Research estimates that about 95% of the country’s oil imports come from the Middle East, making it one of the most dependent economies in the region on Gulf energy supplies.

Any disruption to shipping routes or sustained surge in prices could therefore translate quickly into higher domestic fuel costs and inflation.

Japan

Japan remains highly dependent on energy imports from the Middle East.

According to Bank of America Global Research, about 94% of Japan’s oil imports originate from the region. Analysts warn that supply disruptions or sustained price increases could therefore significantly affect Japan’s energy costs.

Nomura added that Japan typically maintains only two to four weeks of liquefied natural gas (LNG) stockpiles, limiting its ability to absorb prolonged supply disruptions.

Vietnam

Vietnam is also heavily reliant on Middle Eastern energy supplies.

Bank of America Global Research estimates that about 88% of the country’s oil imports come from the region, making it vulnerable to any disruption to shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Who could gain in Asia?

Not all Asian economies would be hit equally.

Malaysia, for example, could see higher government revenues as an oil and gas exporter if prices remain elevated.

Still, further action is under active review, signalling that the crackdown may not stop at web access alone.

What happened: 

What officials say:

Communications Ministe r Fahmi Fadzil said MCMC will act against content or app functions that violate local laws, including material deemed lewd or immoral, exploitative, abusive, fraudulent or threatening to public safety.

Why ban them now?

MCMC was merely responding to a parliamentary question from Nurul Amin Hamid on whether the government would work with app store providers to block downloads of LGBTQ+ dating apps, including Grindr, Blued and Growlr.

Strict LGBT laws in Malaysia

Malaysia has not cited a single, specific statute naming the apps themselves. But the Muslim-majority country has been implementing sharia law and content regulations that prohibit the promotion of LGBTQ+ identities to Muslims.

Under sharia law — which applies to Muslims in Malaysia — same-sex acts and sodomy are criminalised, though prosecutions are rare. 

A government task force has proposed amendments that would explicitly allow enforcement action against online content seen as “promoting the LGBT lifestyle” or insulting Islam, including material shared via apps and social media platforms.

Bigger picture:

Why it matters:

Website blocks are relatively easy to implement, but app store restrictions require cooperation from global tech firms. How Malaysia navigates that gap will shape the reach — and limits — of its online content enforcement going forward.

However, vendors must receive typhoid vaccinations and complete food-handling courses before being allowed to operate. The state health department will also monitor bazaars to ensure hygiene and food safety rules are followed.

This decision comes as the health ministry recorded 596 new TB cases during Epidemiological Week Six of 2026, bringing the cumulative total this year to 3,161 cases. 

Johor has reported 280 cases so far. Sabah recorded the highest number at 755, followed by Selangor with 596 and Sarawak with 332.

Why these bazaars are important in Malaysia

Malaysia is a Muslim-majority country , and Ramadan bazaars are a central feature of the fasting month, drawing large evening crowds buying food for iftar, the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. 

According to the 2020 national census, 63.5% of Malaysia’s population practices Islam, making Ramadan a major period of heightened social and commercial activity.

The health ministry said it had no plans to reintroduce mandatory mask rules similar to those imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic. Instead, it is encouraging personal responsibility.

While Malaysia has transitioned to the endemic phase of Covid-19, officials warned that respiratory infections — including TB — can spread more easily in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, particularly if an individual with untreated active TB is present.

Again, the ministry stressed that Ramadan itself does not cause disease transmission, but increased social interaction may raise exposure risks. It advised the public to wear masks if experiencing symptoms such as cough or fever.

Health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad previously said that 85% of TB cases involve Malaysian citizens, with 15% linked to foreigners.

“Crowded, enclosed and poorly ventilated spaces increase the risk of transmission, especially if an individual with untreated active TB is present,” the ministry said.

It stressed that Ramadan itself is not a cause of TB transmission, but warned that increased social interaction during the month could raise exposure risks.

“Ramadan itself is not a cause of TB transmission. However, higher social interaction during the month may increase exposure risks,” the statement added.

The ministry said community awareness and early action remain crucial to controlling the disease. “With collective action, we can ensure a safe and healthy Ramadan for all,” it said, noting that TB spreads differently from respiratory viruses.

“Unlike influenza or Covid-19, TB spreads more slowly and usually requires prolonged and repeated exposure,” the ministry said.

As part of its advisory, the public was urged to practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, ensure indoor areas are well ventilated, wear masks if symptomatic or when in crowded places, and seek medical attention for a cough lasting more than two weeks or other TB-related symptoms.

By state, Sabah recorded the highest number of cases (755), followed by Selangor (596) and Sarawak (332). Johor recorded 280 cases, while Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya logged 244. At the other end of the scale, Labuan reported the lowest number (18), with Perlis (21) and Melaka (48) also among the lowest.

However, projections into the country’s economic performance in 2026 are being haunted by uncertainty over US trade policy, which is emerging as a key risk.

Malaysia currently faces a 19 per cent tariff on goods exported to the United States . While recent US semiconductor tariffs were narrower than initially feared, affecting less than 10 per cent of related exports.

Bank Negara Malaysia has projected economic growth of between 4 and 4.5 per cent in 2026, slightly slower than in 2025. The central bank kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 2.75 per cent, citing stable inflation and steady economic momentum.

Household spending remains strong, supported by wage growth and a healthy labour market. Investment is also holding up, backed by ongoing infrastructure projects and private sector expansion.

Malaysia will take immediate action against unauthorised houses of worship , Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on February 9, amid rising disputes that have raised concerns over national unity. He said temples or shrines built without legal approval, particularly on land they do not own, will no longer be allowed, and municipal councils have been authorised to clear such structures. Anwar noted the sensitivity of the issue in Malaysia’s multi-religious society, citing recent disputes involving Hindu temples in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. While acknowledging potential backlash, he warned against vigilantism, stressing that enforcement must be carried out strictly according to the law.

New member of Malaysian royalty is born

Prince Abdul Mateen and his wife, Princess Anisha Rosnah, have welcomed their first child , a baby girl, the Brunei royal household announced on Sunday. In a statement carried by national broadcaster RTB News, the Office of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah said Princess Anisha gave birth safely on Feb 8 at 8.50am, in an announcement made in accordance with the Sultan’s orders. The birth was marked by 17 cannon shots fired at the grounds of Istana Nurul Iman. The couple, who married in a royal ceremony last year, announced the pregnancy in October.

Anwar says language, history must anchor education to prevent detached elite

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia must place language and history at the core of its education system to avoid producing an elite class disconnected from national identity. Speaking at an event at Universiti Selangor in Shah Alam, Anwar said a firm commitment was needed if the country was serious about shaping its own character. He stressed that the principle should apply across all education streams, including international schools, which have expanded rapidly. While debates on language and education date back decades, Anwar said indecision was no longer an option, adding that cultural grounding must progress alongside economic and technological development.

Health ministry bans cosmetic product found to contain mercury

The health ministry has banned the sale of Saqa Glowing Turmeric Night Treatment Cream after tests found it contained mercury , a prohibited substance in cosmetics. The ministry revoked the product’s notification, making it illegal to sell or distribute in the country, Bernama reported. In a statement, the ministry warned that mercury can be absorbed into the body and cause serious health risks, including kidney and nervous system damage, developmental harm to children and fetuses, and skin reactions such as rashes and irritation. Consumers have been urged to stop using the product, while sellers and distributors must immediately halt sales due to regulatory violations.

Toddler opening car door triggers six-vehicle crash

A two-year-old child opening a car door caused a six-vehicle road accident along Jalan Tun Razak on Friday evening, police said. The crash occurred near the Kampung Pandan roundabout heading towards KLCC and involved four cars and two motorcycles. Preliminary investigations found the child, seated in the rear of a Honda City and held by a relative, opened the left rear door after the child safety lock was not engaged. A motorcyclist was unable to avoid the door, triggering a chain collision. One rider was hospitalised, while another suffered minor injuries. Police are investigating for careless driving.

In the video, the teenagers are seen saying they “want to do a good deed” before eating fried chicken at a fast-food outlet. One remarks that the chicken bones would be wasted if thrown away. They then pack the bones into rice and hand it to a man sleeping outside a Johor Bahru restaurant. The man thanks them, though it is unclear whether he ate the food.

Tang, who represented himself in court, was charged under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 with creating and posting an offensive video intended to cause annoyance, according to state-run news agency Bernama .

In court, Tang apologised and asked for a minimum fine, saying he was remorseful for the stunt.

The prosecution described the video as a “calculated act of exploitation,” noting that the victim felt “insulted and angry” after being used for social media content. 

Deputy public prosecutor Fadhli Ab Wahab called for a deterrent sentence to prevent others from posting similar videos.

Judge Sazlina Safie ordered Tang to pay the RM40,000 fine, adding four months’ imprisonment in default of payment. Tang has since settled the fine.

Under Malaysian law, the offence carries a maximum penalty of RM500,000 ($127,000), up to two years’ imprisonment, or both, with additional daily fines if the violation continues after conviction.

Tang later posted another Instagram video admitting his mistake, promising not to film similar content again, and kowtowing three times in apology.

The over-one-minute clip has been viewed more than 400,000 times, sparking a debate online about the limits of social media pranks and the ethics of exploiting vulnerable individuals for content.

Citing a 2017 study by “Sulaiman et al”, Zulkifli said factors such as “societal influence, sexual experiences, work stress and other personal factors” could contribute to what he described as “ LGBT-related behaviour .” 

He added that there were no comprehensive official statistics on the size of the LGBTQ population in the country.

Comment draws flak

The remarks triggered swift backlash online, with social media users questioning both the logic and scientific basis of the claim. 

Several comments mocked the suggestion that stress could affect sexual orientation, with one widely shared post quipping that, by such reasoning, entire workplaces should have “turned gay ” by now.

While the comments were widely lampooned, LGBTQ advocates said the episode reflected a deeper and more troubling pattern of state-sanctioned stigma.

“This misinformation reinforces the assumption that LGBT people’s sexual orientation and gender identity can be corrected, changed or are not real or as valid as cisgender heterosexual identities,” Thilaga Sulathireh of LGBTQ rights group Justice for Sisters told This Week in Asia.

“The fact is diversity in sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics is completely natural and normal. This has been proven by medical and other bodies,” Thilaga added. “The minister must retract and correct the misinformation.”

Big picture

Under Malaysian law, certain consensual same-sex acts remain criminalised under colonial-era provisions of the federal Penal Code. Muslims may also face prosecution under state-level sharia laws for same-sex conduct or gender expression. 

Zulkifli has previously said individuals suspected of such offences may be subjected to counselling or rehabilitation programmes if evidence is insufficient for prosecution.

Rights groups warned that official statements linking sexuality to stress or moral failure risk further marginalising an already vulnerable community, particularly when coupled with heightened enforcement and public condemnation.

The move reflects concern at what Anwar described as a basic gap in knowledge among graduates, adding it was unreasonable for Malaysians to complete university without understanding how their country is governed or how it came to be.

Under the plan , the subjects will be embedded within general education courses rather than added as stand-alone requirements, in an effort to avoid overloading students in specialised fields.

Anwar said a foundational grasp of constitutional principles and history was essential to safeguarding the nation, particularly as Malaysia navigates political, social and economic change.

He pointed to the Constitution as the backbone of the country’s system while stressing that unity must be balanced with respect for diversity.

According to Anwar, education should help students appreciate Malaysia’s multi-ethnic and multicultural society, and understand values such as justice, humanity and shared responsibility.

"If we want to safeguard this nation, all our children must master basic, foundational knowledge of the Constitution and history,” the prime minister said. “This will be covered under general studies.”

Revamped education roadmap

The policy is part of the newly launched National Education Blueprint 2026–2035, which aims to align education reforms from school level through to higher education.

The blueprint is jointly led by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education, with each ministry responsible for implementing reforms within its sector.

Beyond curriculum changes, Anwar also addressed student welfare, acknowledging persistent complaints over the lack of affordable accommodation, especially in major cities.

He said the government has directed government-linked investment companies to take the lead in developing student housing, rather than relying solely on private developers.

An initial target of 5,000 additional accommodation places has been set, with projects to be developed in cooperation with selected universities.

Elsewhere, Malaysia’s decision to integrate constitutional and history studies has drawn attention within Southeast Asia.

In the Philippines, former higher education chief Prospero de Vera contrasted the move with proposals to cut general education (GE) subjects in senior high school, in a bid to “decongest” the curriculum. 

The Philippines was the last country in Asia to adopt a 12-year basic education programme, implementing it only in 2012. 

“While our more developed ASEAN neighbors will now require additional GE subjects, our politicians are obsessed with reducing the GE program,” de Vera said. “We need better leaders."

Together, Malaysia’s educational reforms signal a broader effort by the Anwar administration to anchor education more firmly in national values, while addressing practical pressures faced by Malaysia’s growing student population.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship as a showcase of national unity, professionalism, and economic leadership. Speaking at the ASEAN Chairmanship Appreciation Ceremony, he thanked government staff, security forces, and even cleaning personnel for their contributions, highlighting smooth event management and cultural showcases. Anwar emphasised teamwork across races, religions, and ministries, linking success to clear policies, firm leadership, and anti-corruption measures. He stressed Malaysia’s desire to be recognised for economic management, AI adoption, and renewable energy initiatives, while also showing care for fellow ASEAN nations, including supporting Timor-Leste’s formal admission as the bloc’s 11th member.

Malaysia eyes first dollar bond sale since 2021 amid strong markets

Malaysia is considering issuing US dollar-denominated bonds this year, its first such sale since 2021, as global credit markets rally and borrowing costs ease. The Finance Ministry said it has sought proposals from banks, partly to refinance dollar bonds maturing in 2026, including a US$1 billion Islamic note due in April. The move comes as spreads on Asian dollar debt hit record lows and after Malaysia’s economy grew a stronger-than-expected 5.7% in the fourth quarter, lifting full-year growth above forecasts. However, officials expect growth to slow to 4–4.5% this year amid rising global volatility and geopolitical risks.

Tighter expatriate hiring rules set higher pay floors, tenure caps

Malaysia will revise its expatriate employment framework from June 1, 2026, tightening rules under the Employment Pass system to prioritise senior and specialist foreign talent. Minimum salary thresholds will rise sharply, with Category I roles requiring at least RM20,000 a month, while Category II and III posts face higher, more clearly defined pay bands. New limits will also cap expatriate tenure at up to 10 years for senior roles and five years for junior categories. The government says the changes address salary compression with local professionals and aim to strengthen skills transfer, succession planning and the progression of Malaysians into leadership roles.

Malaysia’s king urges unity, prioritises national interest amid autonomy debate

Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar urged lawmakers to prioritise national interests over state rights, calling for unity, restraint and maturity in resolving political differences. Addressing parliament on January 19, he said any education system seeking recognition must use the Malay language and reflect Malaysia’s history. He reaffirmed respect for state rights but stressed they must not override the country’s collective interests, citing the 1963 Malaysia Agreement as a foundation for cooperation between states and the federal government. His remarks come amid renewed autonomy demands from Sabah and Sarawak, and follow a court ruling ordering the federal government to settle Sabah’s long-disputed revenue share.

Laos, Thailand, Malaysia advance ASEAN power grid with cross-border deal

Laos, Thailand and Malaysia have signed a new electricity transmission agreement under the Laos-Thailand-Malaysia–Singapore Power Integration Project, marking a step forward in ASEAN’s regional energy integration. The deal enables the cross-border transmission of 100 megawatts of electricity from Laos to Singapore via existing power networks in Thailand and Malaysia, over a two-year contract period. Signed in Bangkok on Jan 14 by state power utilities from the three countries, the agreement advances the ASEAN Power Grid initiative, aimed at strengthening energy security, improving resource efficiency and supporting sustainable economic growth through regional electricity trade.

The move is framed by the government as a matter of fairness and enforcement, amid growing concerns that tax incentives meant to boost local economies have instead enabled loopholes, abuse and weak compliance among wealthy vehicle owners.

For years, Langkawi’s duty-free status allowed supercars that would cost up to 5 million ringgit ($1.2 million) elsewhere in Malaysia to be registered on the island for roughly half the price, making it the preferred hub for luxury car buyers nationwide.

Industry figures indicate that around 90% of Ferraris in Malaysia were registered in Langkawi, not for island use but to take advantage of lower taxes. 

After uncovering unpaid tax

Officials have also been under pressure to act after stepped-up enforcement revealed widespread non-compliance , including hundreds of luxury vehicles with unpaid road tax, forged plates or years of arrears despite their high market value.

Since July 2025, road transport authorities have seized more than 900 luxury vehicles nationwide, including Ferraris, Aston Martins and Rolls-Royces, some owing tens of thousands of ringgit in unpaid tax. 

By removing exemptions, Malaysia appears to be signalling that ownership of high-value assets must come with full fiscal responsibility, particularly at a time when the government is seeking to broaden its tax base.

The policy also aligns with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s broader reform agenda, which emphasises closing leakages, curbing elite privileges and restoring confidence in the tax system.

Backlash on economy

However, industry veterans warn the move could backfire economically, arguing that Langkawi’s tax-free status generated sustained revenue through corporate tax, customs charges, tourism spending and high-end services tied to luxury vehicles.

They say the island evolved into a niche automotive and lifestyle hub, hosting international car launches and supporting specialised workshops, logistics firms, hotels and secure storage facilities.

Dealers report immediate fallout, with cancellations already being felt amid uncertainty over implementation, while local business groups fear job losses and a decline in premium tourism.

In Johor, where many schools have traditionally required neckties and built distinctive identities around them, the change has drawn criticism from some education groups. 

Mohd Ridhwan Othman, chairman of the Malaysian Education Concorde Organisation (Me’Didik), said neckties play a role in cultivating discipline and pride in personal appearance.

“A necktie can help cultivate self-discipline and instill good character in students. Wearing a tie teaches children to take care of their personal appearance, as they carry the image of their school,” he said.

Ridhwan also raised concerns about the timing of the circular, noting that some schools had already purchased ties in bulk ahead of the new academic year. 

In Johor, he said, students typically wear formal uniforms — including ties — only on Mondays, with sports or co-curricular attire on other days.

Others welcomed the move as a practical adjustment to classroom conditions . Vincent D’Silva, president of the Johor English Language Teaching Association, said discipline should not be conflated with uniform accessories.

“Discipline is shaped by values, teaching and example – not by a strip of fabric around the neck,” he said. “In a tropical climate, comfort matters, and learning should never be made harder by unnecessary discomfort.”

Many elements of school formality, including neckties, were adopted from education systems in temperate countries, where climate and infrastructure differ markedly from those in the Global South.

D’Silva said the ministry’s decision refines rather than weakens the uniform system, maintaining school identity while removing an item with limited educational value.

Under the circular dated December 17, schools may still allow neckties if there is mutual agreement with parents, but no student may be compelled or pressured to wear one. 

The policy was approved at the Education Ministry Professional Council’s Special 2025 meeting on December 8.

Signed by Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad, the directive leaves schools to determine whether discipline is best reinforced through dress codes — or through teaching and example.

Authorities say the syndicate was operating large-scale drug-processing laboratories hidden inside residential homes and industrial buildings. Among the properties raided was a three-storey bungalow that had been converted into a drug lab.

Police seized massive quantities of cocaine, ketamine and MDMA in both liquid and powder form, along with chemical equipment used to process and package the drugs. Investigators estimate the drugs could have supplied more than 60 million users.

According to the police, the syndicate had been active since April and was supplying drugs to overseas markets. One suspect is believed to have acted as a chemist, while others managed storage and processing sites. The foreign women arrested were described as partners of the male suspects.

In addition to the drugs, police seized several vehicles and other assets as part of the investigation. The suspects remain in custody as authorities continue to track possible links to international trafficking networks.

In 2019 , Malaysian authorities seized nearly 3,700kg of ketamine and cocaine worth about $161m in the country’s biggest drug haul to date. Malaysia has, over the years, become a key transit point for illegal narcotics, with authorities seizing record amounts of crystal methamphetamine in the past year.

Government spokesman Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim considered access to police services “non-negotiable,” adding no one should be prevented from seeking help over clothing. 

The Cabinet instructed Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar to review and revise a 2020 circular governing attire in government buildings. Fahmi said essential frontline services, especially health and security agencies, will be exempt once the updates are issued. Police stations will be included in this exemption.

He added that the chief secretary’s office is studying the matter and that an updated directive is expected “not too long from now.” The move represents a sharp shift from comments made just a day earlier by Melaka police chief Datuk Dzulkhairi Mukhtar, who had insisted the public must comply with the dress code unless facing a genuine emergency.

Guo’s case drew widespread attention after she recounted pleading with the officer to make an exception, explaining that she needed to report the accident urgently. She said the officer refused, citing fear of disciplinary action, and advised her to buy long trousers before returning.

The woman eventually purchased the required clothing in order to file her report. She said she had encountered similar issues at other government offices and questioned whether the same rules would apply in more serious cases. 

“If this weren’t a car accident but a murder case, would they still insist on this?” she asked.

Melaka police later confirmed that the woman was asked to change into “appropriate clothing” when she arrived to lodge the accident report. While public welfare remains a priority, they said the existing government circular had to be respected.

The incident prompted local leaders to call for action. Melaka state executive councillor Allex Seah Shoo Chin said he had contacted the state police chief to request an investigation into the handling of the case.

While dress standards are typically enforced in public buildings, critics argue that rigid application can hinder those seeking help and that clearer, more flexible guidelines are needed to prevent similar cases.

The DOH reiterated that vapes pose serious risks — including cardiovascular disease, cancer and severe lung injuries — and noted that the country recorded its first EVALI-linked death last year. 

Herbosa said authorities must tighten enforcement of existing laws but suggested a total ban may be simpler.

The concern mirrors global trends. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that e-cigarettes are driving an “alarming” surge in nicotine addiction among children, with young people far more likely to vape than adults. 

WHO estimates more than 100 million people worldwide now use e-cigarettes, including at least 15 million adolescents.

Neighbouring Malaysia is moving ahead with a phased vape ban, starting with refillable devices and eventually covering all models — a plan that will go before the Cabinet for final approval. 

Several Malaysian states already enforce local bans, despite legal complexities stemming from the country’s 2024 vape regulation law. If fully implemented, Malaysia would join Brunei, Thailand and Singapore in outlawing vaping.

In the Philippines, regulators are tightening rules even without a full ban. 

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has released a draft order requiring mandatory permits for all vape promotions and advertisements, along with strict age-gating for online content and proof that stores are not near schools or playgrounds. Public comments are open until December 15.

With the DOH signalling openness to prohibition and the DTI moving to curb marketing, the Philippines appears increasingly aligned with regional efforts to rein in vaping — raising the question of whether a ban may soon follow.

Under the proposed rules, social media companies that allow under-16s to create accounts could face penalties of up to RM10 million (about USD $2.1 million).

Fahmi said the government is studying how other countries are implementing similar restrictions, including Australia, which this month became the first nation to ban social media access for those under 16. Platforms there face fines of up to AU$49.5 million (about USD $33 million) if they fail to enforce the ban.

Malaysia’s decision follows rising concern about online safety for children . Fahmi cited a recent incident involving a primary school pupil who requested indecent images from a teacher via WhatsApp as an example of why tighter controls are needed.

“Caning (as a) punishment has various categories, including the method and number of strikes, and this should be reconsidered before being reintroduced,” he said at an anti-bullying campaign in late November. 

Shazeli said a regulated approach was needed to prevent the misuse of power among teachers, arguing that experiential consequences are more effective than verbal reprimands alone.

“ People learn from experience and the feelings they go through, which is more effective than just talking or communicating without experiencing it first-hand,” he added.

The proposal comes as authorities confront a rise in school-related crime . 

Between January and October 2024, 108 students in Selangor were detained for offences including bullying, extortion and assault. The figure increased to 122 students over the same period this year.

Police say gang-linked violence is becoming increasingly common in both primary and secondary schools . 

“Upon examining fights and disturbances, there is often an element from outside, particularly for gangsterism,” Shazeli said.

He suggested that softer disciplinary approaches have weakened students’ sense of consequence. 

“Such measures should have been available to teachers to enforce discipline and manage the school,” he said, warning that the “fear factor” had faded.

Shazeli also urged schools and families to be more vigilant about serious incidents involving injury or organized groups. 

The anti-bullying campaign—organised jointly by the Selangor Police and the Selangor Education Department—drew about 700 participants, including Parent Teacher Association members, teachers and community stakeholders.

The renewed debate reflects a broader national crisis. 

Reports of bullying in Malaysia’s schools have surged from 3,883 cases in 2022 to 6,528 in 2023, and 6,208 cases were recorded between January and October 2024. 

Public anger intensified after the death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir in July, which triggered protests and revived calls for systemic reform, including a dedicated anti-bullying Act now under government consideration.

The remark spread rapidly online and was met with widespread anger.

For many Sabahans, the comment reinforced perceptions that West Malaysian politicians view East Malaysians as unsophisticated and easily drawn in by handouts.

While travellers frequently carry Gardenia loaves home from Kuala Lumpur, viewing the brand as superior to local bread, many say the issue now goes far beyond food.

What began as a throwaway line about bread has become a symbol of calls for respect.

The episode has also sparked conversation about long-standing grievances on autonomy, resource control and federal oversight dating back to Sabah’s entry into Malaysia in 1963.

Sabah Barisan Nasional chief Bung Moktar Radin condemned the remark as insulting and divisive, calling on voters to reject parties that “cause inter-state racial disunity”. 

He described the episode as “deeply embarrassing” and “unforgivable”.

Mansor has apologised, but the backlash threatens to undermine Perikatan Nasional’s campaign. The coalition is contesting 42 of the state’s 73 seats, with six of these being contested by PAS.

Peninsular Malaysia currently experiences sunrise at around 7 a.m., leaving workers and schoolchildren little daylight before starting their day. 

In contrast, eastern states Sabah and Sarawak see sunrise between 6 a.m. and 6:30 a.m., despite sharing the same time zone as the rest of the country.

Advocates for a time zone change point to nearby countries, such as Thailand and western Indonesia, which operate on GMT+7, arguing this alignment allows for a healthier daily routine with earlier daylight hours. 

Some Malaysians say they feel “robbed” of morning light, limiting opportunities for exercise and outdoor activity before work or school.

The current time arrangement dates back to 1982, when then-Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad advanced Peninsular Malaysia’s clock by half an hour to synchronise with Sabah and Sarawak. Singapore followed suit to avoid inconvenience for businesses and travellers.

Calls to revert Peninsular Malaysia to GMT+7 have circulated online for years, driven by communities advocating for more sunlight to improve health. Supporters argue that shifting the clock could help address lifestyle-related health issues such as sleep disruption and low physical activity.

However, medical experts caution that the one-hour difference may not be a major health concern. 

The government has previously rejected proposals to shift the time zone, citing potential economic impact. 

It is this question that lies behind an unexpected and controversial claim: that the Romans learned to build their ships from a civilization far to the east - one rarely studied in Europe - the Malays.

The controversial claim

The theory comes from Solehah Yaacob of the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), who produced a PhD thesis arguing that Roman shipbuilding borrowed directly from Malay designs. For her, the evidence begins with geography and culture. The Malay peninsula and surrounding archipelagos have always been deeply maritime societies. Positioned on the ancient trade routes linking India, the Middle East, and China, Malay communities developed sophisticated vessels suited for long-distance trade and travel.

Early Chinese sources from the start of the first millennium describe Malay ships capable of carrying up to 700 people and 600 tons of cargo.

Crucially, Malay ships were constructed without metal fastenings, relying instead on wooden pegs. And builders constructed the hull first and the internal frame afterward. This “shell-first” method may seem counterintuitive, but it is also how Roman ships were built. Yaacob argues that this similarity suggests not coincidence, but influence.

As intriguing as the claim is, it quickly runs into serious problems. The Phoenicians and Vikings - seafaring cultures separated by both time and geography - also used shell-first construction. This weakens any argument that the technique must have originated in one place and diffused outward.

More significantly, there is no archaeological evidence of contact between Malays and Romans during the period when Roman shipbuilding was developing. Most experts therefore see the similarities as an example of parallel innovation: different societies arriving independently at the same practical solution for building large, sturdy vessels.

And Yaacob’s credibility has been questioned before. In an earlier academic paper, she cited as fact a satirical magazine’s joke claim that ancient Greek was secretly invented in the 1970s.

Why the debate matters

If the theory is weak, why has it generated so much discussion -enough to reach Malaysia’s parliament?

Because beneath the historical questions lie modern political and cultural tensions.

Malaysia is a multi-ethnic country in which Malay Muslims enjoy particular privileges in part due to Article 153 of the constitution, which provides special measures for Malays and indigenous groups. These measures were introduced after independence to compensate for decades of discrimination by the British colonial rulers who had given administrative and skilled jobs to those of Indian and Chinese ethnic origin. In that context, a bold theory about Malay technological influence on Rome speaks to contemporary desires for recognition and pride.

While several Malaysian politicians have dismissed the claim as obviously untrue, some defended Yaacob’s work as deserving of more respectful consideration.

Whether Romans truly learned shipbuilding from Malays is almost certainly a question with a simple answer: no. But as with many debates addressed on World Reframed , the factual correctness of the claim is only part of the story. The intensity of the reaction reveals much more about Malaysia today—its politics, its identities, and its ongoing efforts to shape and decolonise its historical narrative.

Click here to watch our previous episodes

World Reframed is produced in London by  Global South  World, part of the Impactum Group. Its editors are Duncan Hooper and Ismail Akwei.

ISSN 2978-4891

Malaysia’s population reached 34.3 million in the third quarter of 2025, up from 34.1 million a year earlier, marking a slower growth rate of 0.5% compared with 1.6% in 2024, according to the Department of Statistics. Citizens made up 90.1% of the population, while non-citizens accounted for 9.9%. Live births fell 7.8% to 95,469, while deaths dropped 5.6% to 46,643. Chief Statistician Mohd Uzir Mahidin said Malaysia’s declining fertility mirrors a global trend below the replacement level, warning it could challenge the nation’s demographic structure, economic growth, and social balance.

Malaysia reports over 3,000 sexual crimes against minors

Malaysia has recorded 3,093 sexual crimes involving minors from 2023 to October 2025, with 608 incidents occurring in schools, Deputy Minister M. Kulasegaran told Parliament. The cases included 1,760 in 2023, 1,041 in 2024, and 892 so far this year, leading to 3,601 arrests. To improve safety, the Education Ministry formed an Institutional Safety Reform Committee with police, UNICEF, and other partners to strengthen the Safe School Programme and conduct safety audits. The government also plans a National Child Data Centre to track juvenile sex offenders while ensuring privacy under the Child Act 2001.

Anwar says Malaysia must act fast to become regional chip hub amid AI boom

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged Malaysia to accelerate efforts to become a regional hub for semiconductors and digital technology as artificial intelligence reshapes the global economy. Speaking at the 2025 International Higher Education Islamic Studies Convention, he said mastering emerging technologies is vital for national growth and urged students, including those in Islamic studies, to explore opportunities in the semiconductor field. Anwar stressed the need for a clearly defined semiconductor policy and highlighted Malaysia’s political stability as key to swift implementation and stronger global partnerships, particularly with the US and China.

Malaysia ready to host Thailand-Cambodia talks after border tensions flare

Malaysia is prepared to host negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia amid renewed clashes along their shared border, Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan said. He noted that both countries had “lost confidence and trust in each other,” despite signing the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord during the recent Asean Summit. Mohamad said Cambodia requested Kuala Lumpur as the venue, while Thailand also asked Malaysia to help preserve the ceasefire. Tensions resurfaced after Thai soldiers were injured by landmines, which Bangkok claimed were newly planted by Cambodian forces. However, Asean observers found no evidence the mines were recently laid.

Malaysia to launch essential list, localisation incentives to strengthen auto supply chain

Malaysia will introduce an essential list and localisation incentives to boost its domestic automotive supply chain and expand export opportunities for local vendors, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz announced at the Global Automotive Technology Expo 2025. The government is also aligning existing electric vehicle (EV) tax exemptions with local assembly operations, a policy shift aimed at deepening industrial participation and regional competitiveness. Zafrul said Perodua’s EV programme remains on track, while Proton has launched the e.MAS 5. Malaysia retained its position as Southeast Asia’s top vehicle market in early 2025.

Roblox Corporation, in a meeting with Malaysian authorities, pledged to strengthen its safety features.

“They gave their assurance that they would enhance safety through the use of AI technology and human monitoring, and are willing to work with the Malaysian government, especially when it comes to data sharing and compliance with government regulations,” Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh wrote on Facebook on Monday.

The stabbing has shocked households across Malaysia, where Roblox has more than one million users.

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said he bans his own children from playing the game, citing its addictive nature and impact on behaviour.

“As a 12-year-old boy, it’s better that he is out playing with his friend,” Fahmi said.

In 2024, Roblox reported 85 million daily active users worldwide — a number that has likely grown as the multi-game platform continues to attract younger audiences.

While this stabbing is one of the most tragic incidents linked to Roblox, there have long been concerns over the platform’s safety features.

Parents have reported cases of grooming by adults posing as children, incidents often blamed on the platform’s inadequate real-time age verification, which relies heavily on AI moderation.

Roblox founder and CEO Dave Baszucki has previously said that while the company enforces rules on in-game behaviour, parents ultimately bear responsibility for monitoring their children’s access.

Fahmi echoed that view: “Devices cannot replace parents. Devices are not nannies.”

The Chinese authorities describe such patrols as environmental protection efforts in a newly designated marine reserve. But under international law, the shoal lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

The South China Sea has become the stage for one of the world’s most dangerous geopolitical games. Rival states - chiefly China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan - are scrambling to occupy reefs, rocks, and islands in a maritime version of Monopoly. Each new outpost, real or artificial, strengthens territorial claims to surrounding waters rich in fish, oil, and gas.

The Great Wall of Sand

Among the boldest tactics is China’s creation of man-made islands, a project so vast it’s been dubbed the Great Wall of Sand . Using dredging vessels like the enormous  Tian Kun Hao , known as the “Island Maker,” sand is sucked from the seabed and poured over reefs until they rise above the waves. Concrete walls are then added to prevent erosion.

The environmental toll is immense. Dredging destroys coral reefs and marine habitats, clouds the water with sediment that blocks sunlight, and alters ocean currents,  potentially influencing the paths of future storms and typhoons.

One striking example is Fiery Cross Reef, a remote speck in the sea roughly equidistant from Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Once a shallow reef, it is now home to a full-scale Chinese military base, complete with a long runway, hangars, housing blocks, and even sports facilities. From this isolated fortress, Beijing projects power across the region.

Other countries have also manned remote outposts to stake their own claims - the Philippines even grounded a World War II ship onto a reef more than two decades ago and has kept it manned with a permanent garrison since.

The motivation is clear. Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), coastal nations can claim an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extending 200 nautical miles from their shores, granting rights to fish, oil, and minerals. But artificial islands do not qualify.

Lines on the map

In 2013, the Philippines turned to the United Nations to challenge China's sweeping claims off its shoreline. And won a comprehensive victory three years later. A UN tribunal ruled that the islands upon which Beijing based its claim were not naturally sufficient to sustain inhabitation and therefore not entitled to their own EEZ. China dismissed the verdict as “null and void.”

China continues to assert sovereignty over nearly 90% of the South China Sea, marked by its so-called Nine-Dash Line , a sweeping loop that intrudes into the EEZs of several neighbouring states. Taiwan , formally the Republic of China, maintains a similar claim with eleven dashes based on historical maps and trading routes.

The global stakes

The South China Sea isn’t just a regional flashpoint. It’s one of the busiest maritime corridors on Earth, carrying up to a third of global shipping. And conflicts are frequent, if mainly low-level.

The US is taking a close interest and NATO has also looked at its own role in the region. There's no sign of a resolution and plenty of reason to predict further tensions.

[Editor's note: The most common English names of locations have been used in this article for convenience and do no imply advocacy for any territorial claims on the part of Global South World]

Click here to watch our previous episodes

World Reframed is produced in London by  Global South  World, part of the Impactum Group. Its editors are Duncan Hooper and Ismail Akwei.

ISSN 2978-4891

Tariffs , immigration policies and lingering tensions with Washington are all expected to be brought to the table when Asian leaders engage with Trump on this trip. Here’s what you need to know about it. 

Malaysia 

Trump’s first stop will be at the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur from October 26 to 27. There, he will meet the 10 leaders from the regional bloc, which is set to expand this year with the accession of the fledgling democracy, Timor Leste. 

Topics expected to be brought up include trade and US tariffs, regional security and defence partnerships, and the Gaza War, which Trump recently helped bring to a ceasefire using a 20-point peace plan between Israel and Hamas agreed to.

Though he arrives at the summit with a fortified credibility as a peacemaker, he also hovers with the image of a stingy negotiator. Tariffs on ASEAN countries stand between 10% to 40%, and trade tensions around the region recently flared up when Washington slapped a 100% tariff on China, a major export market for Southeast Asian countries. 

As well, host country Malaysia’s decision to extend an invitation to Trump may be rooted in trade realities: the United States is now Malaysia’s largest export market, overtaking China. Bilateral trade has nearly doubled over the past decade, reaching $78.3 billion in 2022.

ASEAN had invited Xi to the summit, but he is expected to skip the event and attend the APEC Summit in South Korea instead.

Japan

Trump will stop in Tokyo early next week to meet Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s first female leader.

Talks will centre on trade and investment. Washington is demanding up to $550 billion in Japanese investments in the US, but Tokyo has so far pledged only a small share as direct capital. 

Trump is also expected to press Japan to cut imports of Russian liquefied natural gas, a sensitive issue for energy-dependent Tokyo.

Despite a July deal lowering tariffs on Japanese cars, manufacturers say the new 15% rate remains too high, while tariffs of 50% on steel still stand. The two leaders are also expected to discuss regional security and coordination on China ahead of the APEC summit.

South Korea

Trump’s final stop will be Gyeongju, South Korea, for the APEC Summit from October 31 to November 1 — where he is expected to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping for the first time since returning to office.

Trade will dominate the agenda. Both leaders face pressure to cool tensions before new U.S. tariffs of up to 100% on Chinese exports take effect. Trump has said he hopes for a “deal on everything,” though Beijing has not yet confirmed the meeting.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will seek to finalise a $350 billion investment deal with Washington, delayed by disagreements over financing terms. The talks come amid lingering anger in Seoul over a US immigration raid last month that detained 300 South Korean nationals at a battery plant in Georgia.

North Korea’s latest missile test, launched days before Trump’s arrival, is expected to add urgency to discussions. While Trump has hinted at wanting to meet Kim Jong-un again, no such encounter is planned.

A produced by The World in Maps categorises these nations by their official or constitutionally endorsed faiths — Christianity (in red), Islam (in green), and Buddhism (in dark grey) — pointing to the enduring complexity of how states and religions interact globally.

What a “state religion” means and how it varies

A state religion (also called an official or established religion) is one that a government formally endorses or gives special status, privileges, or constitutional recognition. But this does not necessarily mean the state is a theocracy or that it compels all citizens to follow that faith.

In many nations, religious freedom still exists, albeit within a framework where the “official” religion enjoys preferential treatment , whether in funding, influence over ceremonial functions, or constitutional prominence.

This landscape is diverse in practice. Some states explicitly define their religion in their constitutions, others make public references, or provide institutional support.

For instance, Jordan’s constitution states that “Islam is the religion of the State” while still permitting other faiths to be practised.

Malaysia’s federal constitution similarly affirms Islam as the religion of the federation, though it allows other religions to be practised peacefully.

Where state religions persist, and which ones

The map shows a concentration of state religions in parts of the Middle East, Southeast Asia , and parts of Europe and Africa.

Islamic state religions are particularly frequent: countries like Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Jordan, Kuwait, and others have Islam as the constitutionally recognised religion.

In the sphere of Buddhism, a few nations (such as Bhutan and Cambodia) declare Buddhist identity in their constitutions as a “spiritual heritage” or state faith.

In Europe, some countries maintain established Christian churches (e.g. the Church of Denmark), though the practical role of these churches varies, and secularisation trends are strong.

It’s also worth noting that many more countries, beyond those with formal state religions, still favour one religion through policy, funding or cultural entanglement. According to Pew , over 80 nations give official or unofficial advantages to particular faiths.

The Malaysian government has issued a strong call for the immediate release of volunteers detained while delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. These volunteers, who were part of a flotilla mission carrying essential supplies such as food, medical equipment, and shelter materials, were intercepted in international waters. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim condemned the detentions, describing them as a violation of international law and humanitarian principles. Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry is engaging with international partners and human rights organisations to secure the volunteers’ release and ensure their safe return home. The incident has stirred public outrage, with Malaysians expressing solidarity through nationwide vigils and social media campaigns. The government reiterated its commitment to defending humanitarian missions and supporting Palestinian civilians enduring severe hardship under continued conflict.

Anwar to meet NGO leaders to discuss humanitarian aid for Gaza via Egypt

In an ongoing effort to coordinate relief for Gaza, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced plans to meet with non-governmental organisation (NGO) leaders to discuss the logistics of channelling humanitarian aid through Egypt. The meeting aims to create a unified Malaysian relief framework that ensures aid delivery to affected civilians despite border restrictions. The discussion will include NGOs specialising in medical assistance, food distribution, and refugee support. Anwar emphasised that Malaysia’s humanitarian stance transcends political or religious lines, reflecting the nation’s moral obligation to assist the oppressed. He also called for greater collaboration among regional governments to pressure for safe humanitarian corridors into Gaza. The government’s proactive approach underscores Malaysia’s growing role as a humanitarian advocate in international crisesNews Briefs 9.10.

Indonesia appoints Iman Hascarya Kusumo as ambassador to Malaysia

Indonesia has officially appointed Iman Hascarya Kusumo as its new Ambassador to Malaysia, a move widely viewed as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations between the two neighbouring nations. The appointment comes at a pivotal time as both countries seek to deepen cooperation on issues including migrant labour protection, trade, and education. Kusumo, known for his diplomatic experience and focus on ASEAN collaboration, is expected to prioritise enhancing mutual understanding and addressing long-standing concerns regarding worker welfare. Malaysian officials have welcomed his appointment, expressing optimism that it will usher in a new era of balanced and transparent diplomacy. Both governments reaffirmed their shared commitment to fostering peace, regional integration, and economic resilience in Southeast Asia.

Need for flexible foreign policy that remains true to core values, says Tok Mat

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan (Tok Mat) has emphasised the importance of a flexible yet principled foreign policy in navigating Malaysia’s complex geopolitical landscape. He stated that while Malaysia must adapt to shifting global dynamics, it should never compromise on its core values of peace, justice, and mutual respect. Tok Mat highlighted that non-alignment remains a cornerstone of Malaysia’s diplomatic strategy, allowing the nation to engage constructively with both Western and Eastern blocs. He also urged policymakers to strengthen regional diplomacy through ASEAN and to assert Malaysia’s voice on pressing international issues such as humanitarian crises, environmental sustainability, and fair trade. His remarks reflect a strategic balance between pragmatism and moral conviction in Malaysia’s approach to global affairs.

Malaysia ready to support any UN peacekeeping effort in Palestine

During a parliamentary session, members of the Dewan Rakyat were informed that Malaysia stands ready to support any United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission in Palestine should one be established. The government expressed its readiness to contribute personnel, logistics, and medical support to ensure peace and stability in the region. Lawmakers across party lines voiced strong backing for the initiative, highlighting Malaysia’s historical solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Malaysia’s participation would align with its long-standing policy of advocating for oppressed peoples and upholding international law. The announcement has strengthened Malaysia’s image as a defender of global peace and humanitarian principles, while also reflecting growing domestic demand for more active involvement in international peacekeeping

According to Fifa, the players had only “doctored documentation.” Each was fined 2,000 Swiss francs ($2,500), while the Malaysian body faces a separate 350,000 Swiss franc ($440,000) penalty.

They will serve a 12-month ban, dimming title hopes for a country that has never won the Asian Cup or qualified for the World Cup — despite football being the top sport in the nation of 35 million.

“The Committee wished to highlight that it concurred with the conclusion of the Investigatory Reports, specifically, that the original birth certificates indicated a sharp contrast to the documentation provided,” said Jorge Palacio, deputy chairman of the Fifa Disciplinary Committee, in the decision. 

“This admission, so finds the Committee, indicates that the Malaysian government ’s validation process may not have been based on original documents, which calls into question the thoroughness of FAM’s verification process,” he continued.

Malaysia’s football body said the suspension stemmed only from a “technical error” and vowed to comply with the appeals process to revert the decision.

“The association strongly denied that players deliberately sought to circumvent eligibility rules,” FAM said.

Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, owner of the powerful Johor Darul Takzim Football Club, said Fifa flip-flopped on its decision.

“FAM has followed the proper process and cooperated with Fifa and the Malaysian government,” he said. “Fifa has approved this, so why has the decision changed now? What happened that suddenly led to such a decision?”

FAM said it “is awaiting the full judgment from Fifa before filing an appeal in accordance with the existing legal process.”

Malaysia currently leads its qualifying group with six points from two matches, though their standing could change pending further FIFA sanctions . Vietnam and Laos trail with three points each, while Nepal remains winless.

Anwar said the move showed Israel’s disregard “not only for the rights of the Palestinian people but also for the conscience of the world.”

“I condemn in the strongest terms Israel’s interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla. These vessels carried unarmed civilians and life-saving humanitarian supplies for Gaza, yet they were met with intimidation and coercion,” he wrote on social media . 

He vowed to pursue legal action to free the Malaysians and hold Israel to account.

“Malaysia will use all legitimate and lawful means at our disposal to ensure that Israel is held to account, especially in matters concerning Malaysian citizens,” he said. “The safety and dignity of our people are paramount, and we will not allow them to be compromised with impunity.”

As of writing, 40 boats had been seized by Israel, with only 12 still evading its naval forces.

The Global Sumud Flotilla is described as the largest maritime mission of its kind, with delegates from 44 countries forming the crew. Among them is climate activist Greta Thunberg. 

The vessels are carrying humanitarian supplies, including rice, biscuits and milk powder, considered vital as international agencies warn of famine in Gaza.

In September, a United Nations (UN) commission concluded that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza , citing evidence it imposed destructive conditions on the Palestinian people, including blocking food and water.

Anwar’s criticism comes at a time of growing unease in Asia over Israel’s actions. At the UN General Assembly, many countries in the region reiterated support for a two-state solution.

Malaysia has long been one of Israel’s fiercest critics. Anwar has previously said his country’s position has made it a target of Israeli intelligence, and at one point Kuala Lumpur even called for Israel’s expulsion from the UN.

The Malaysian premier vowed his country would continue to stand undeterred against Israel. 

“As long as the Palestinian people are denied their fundamental rights and aspirations, Malaysia will stand unflinchingly with them,” he said. “We will not relent in demanding an end to the injustice and dispossession that have plagued Palestine for generations.”

The scandal has reignited discussion over the need for legislation that directly addresses AI-generated fraud. Malaysia’s main cyber law, the Communications and Multimedia Act, was enacted in 1998, long before generative AI existed.

Last year, Malaysia passed the Online Safety Act, which does cover deepfakes, but the law has not yet come into effect. Some legal experts argue that the blackmail attempt could be prosecuted under Section 292 of the Penal Code, which criminalises obscene materials.

For many experts, the blackmail highlights the urgency of more AI-specific legislation.

“The law is there, but the context of crimes committed using AI does not fit exactly into the definition of the crimes, especially if there are no tangible damages incurred from the abuse of AI,” Melissa Lim, an AI legal research fellow with Sinar Project, told The Straits Times . 

Malaysia’s digital minister, Gobind Singh Deo, has announced plans to table a dedicated AI bill by mid-2026. But that timeline has prompted concern as AI-enabled scams proliferate across Southeast Asia.

A report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime found that deepfake cases in the Asia-Pacific region surged by 530% between 2022 and 2023, second only to North America in total reported incidents.

In the first half of 2024 alone, AI-related crimes involving deepfakes ballooned by more than 600%, according to a United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime report.

Criminal hubs in countries like Thailand are also turning to AI to supercharge other scams. A Reuters report this month quoted a scammer who admitted using ChatGPT to impersonate Americans while defrauding US citizens.

The victims are not only the vulnerable but also the powerful. In December 2023, deepfake videos featuring Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong falsely depicted them endorsing cryptocurrency and investment products.

With its young population and reliance on labour exports, Southeast Asia is becoming a magnet for transnational organised crime groups that are evolving into “ criminal service providers .”

As Malaysia races to identify those behind the deepfake blackmail, it is also weighing tougher legislation to provide long-term protection against AI-driven threats.

The Council of Ministers approved 15 draft resolutions advancing Timor-Leste’s accession to key ASEAN agreements, including those on dispute settlement, privileges and immunities, customs cooperation, counter-terrorism, human trafficking prevention, and mutual legal assistance in criminal matters. The decisions mark a major step in fulfilling the country’s ASEAN membership roadmap and securing full participation in regional mechanisms. The Council also approved a joint operational plan between the Defence Forces (F-FDTL) and National Police (PNTL) to maintain public order during major events, including ASEAN accession ceremonies and upcoming state visits. 

UN warns scam centres spreading to Timor-Leste

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has warned that scam call centres are spreading to Timor-Leste, citing a suspected operation linked to the Oecusse free trade zone. Police raided a compound in August in the Special Administrative Region, detaining more than 30 foreigners from Indonesia, Malaysia and China for working without permission. The UNODC report said it was unclear whether the detainees were trafficked. Scam centres, often walled compounds running online fraud schemes that cost victims billions annually, have proliferated across Southeast Asia and are now emerging globally.

Indonesia helps Timor-Leste draft first aviation carbon reduction plan

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation has helped Timor-Leste draft its first State Action Plan (SAP) to cut carbon emissions from international aviation. The mentoring, held in Dili from September 2 to 4 under ICAO’s SAP Buddy Program, included workshops on environmental frameworks, CORSIA implementation, and ICAO software tools. Officials said the collaboration produced an initial draft SAP, a target for submission before the 42nd ICAO Assembly, and plans for on-the-job training in Bali. Indonesia’s Civil Aviation Director General Lukman F. Laisa said the effort reflects Jakarta’s commitment to sustainable aviation and its role in supporting Timor-Leste’s compliance with global environmental standards.

Malaysia, Timor-Leste to deepen cooperation under new strategic framework

Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening ties with Malaysia by advancing a comprehensive strategic framework. Discussions with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur focused on expanding cooperation in defence, health, and education.  At Malaysia’s recent national day celebrations in Dili, Ramos-Horta praised Malaysia’s role in supporting Timor-Leste’s pending ASEAN membership, expected to be formalised at the Kuala Lumpur Summit. He also identified opportunities for energy collaboration, including with PETRONAS, in projects such as Tasi Mane and the Greater Sunrise Gas Field. A new direct flight route between Kuala Lumpur and Dili was described as a historic milestone, enhancing connectivity.

ASEAN chief, Timor-Leste interior minister discuss crime cooperation, membership bid

ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn met Timor-Leste’s Interior Minister Francisco da Costa Guterres on the sidelines of the 19th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) in Melaka, Malaysia. The two discussed Timor-Leste’s role in contributing to regional efforts against transnational crime and supporting the work of AMMTC and its related mechanisms. Dr Kao reaffirmed the ASEAN Secretariat’s commitment to assist Timor-Leste in its accession process as ASEAN’s 11th member state. 

An inter-agency discussion will be held to finalise the implementation plan, which will then be submitted to the Cabinet for approval.

“The outcome of these deliberations and the proposed implementation plan will be presented to the Cabinet for policy approval, which will form the basis for the full ban on vapes in Malaysia,” Dzulkefly said.

Currently, Malaysia only prohibits the online sale of vapes. But users easily bypass the restriction by searching for specific brand names rather than generic terms such as “vape” on e-commerce platforms and search engines.

The announcement comes less than a year after Malaysia introduced Act 852 — the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 — which banned the sale of tobacco and vape products to minors and regulated advertising, packaging, labelling, point-of-sale displays and online sales.

However, the act also formally recognised the vape industry, which Dzulkefly said complicates the legal path to an outright ban.

“This has created a ‘legitimate expectation’ under the law , meaning that if we now impose a sudden ban after establishing Act 852, we must be ready to face possible legal challenges,” he said. 

Some Malaysian states have already acted independently. Perlis, Terengganu, Kedah and Pahang have moved to ban vape sales, while Johor and Kelantan have enforced similar bans since 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Another complication of a sweeping ban would be its economic impact on the burgeoning vape sales industry. In 2023, the market value of this industry reached RM3.48 billion (S$1.05 billion) in 2023 from RM2.27 billion in 2019, according to the Malaysia Vape Chamber of Commerce.

A 2023 Global Adult Tobacco Survey estimated that 1.4 million Malaysian adults — out of a population of 34.2 million — use vapes.

If implemented, the ban would place Malaysia alongside regional neighbours such as Brunei, Thailand and Singapore, which already prohibit vaping — in Singapore’s case under some of the strictest enforcement measures in the region.

He also urged Malaysian businesses to contribute to the cause.

“I will ask friends from our national companies to also show concern. They have helped before, some have already provided various forms of assistance,” he added.

Anwar strongly criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his speech, calling him “cruel” and accusing his government of justifying violence against children .

“Netanyahu and his group are truly not sane! Cruel! They even justify [their wrongdoings] by claiming that children are Hamas. A two-year-old running [they say] is Hamas. They are sick,” he said.

Malaysia has long been a supporter of the Palestinian cause, maintaining its position of not recognising Israel and consistently voicing opposition to Israeli military actions in Gaza.

Anwar's pledge comes days after the declaration of famine in Gaza, where more than half a million people are on the brink of starvation, according to the United Nations-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification.

“This is a big problem for us... We need all the help we can get from Malaysia as a good friend,” Yunus said.

According to the United Nations , hundreds of thousands of Rohingya have fled violence and persecution in Myanmar over the years, with Bangladesh now hosting the largest refugee settlement in the world. The prolonged crisis has placed significant strain on Bangladesh’s resources, prompting calls for stronger regional and international cooperation.

Malaysia, a key voice in Southeast Asia on the Rohingya issue, has previously criticised Myanmar’s handling of the crisis and supported humanitarian efforts for the displaced community.

Thailand’s gross domestic product (GDP) forecast has been revised downward , with growth expected to remain below 5% next year. The adjustment reflects both global and domestic economic challenges, particularly those affecting exports. Analysts caution that these pressures may pose additional hurdles for the Thai economy, which is still recovering from the effects of the pandemic. According to a report from the news outlet เดลินิวส์ (Daily News), economic authorities are closely monitoring the situation and preparing measures to support growth.

Malaysia facilitates Thailand-Cambodia border talks

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has ruled out armed conflict over the Ambalat Block dispute with Indonesia, assuring it will be resolved diplomatically. Speaking in Jakarta on July 29, 2025, he said he had discussed the matter with President Prabowo Subianto, stressing peaceful resolution over war. His comments come amid rising regional tensions after the recent Thailand-Cambodia border clashes. Despite opposition pressure for a tougher stance, Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to negotiation.

Thailand aids farmers in selling surplus longan

Facing a projected surplus of over 1 million tonnes of longan in 2025, the Thai government is collaborating with the private sector to support farmers amid declining prices. The Ministry of Commerce is managing 151,000 tonnes through exports, domestic sales, and processing. Initiatives include exporting 15,000 tonnes, promoting local consumption via the Thai Fruit Festival, CSR-driven purchases, subsidised shipping, vending machine sales, and global outreach through 58 trade offices.

Two storms approaching northeast

Northeast Thailand is preparing for two storms expected to hit the region this September, according to weather forecasts. Local authorities have begun implementing emergency measures to protect residents and reduce potential damage. The storms are forecasted to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds, raising the risk of floods and landslides in vulnerable areas. Communities have been advised to remain vigilant and follow official guidance.

Thailand’s green tourism sets sustainability standard

On July 29, 2025, Thailand unveiled the Green Tourism Collections , featuring 20 eco-friendly travel routes across 10 designated Green Cities, including Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Bangkok. Developed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the initiative aims to align with European sustainability standards and cater to growing demand for low-impact travel, especially from EU and U.S. tourists. The routes promote environmental responsibility, cultural authenticity, and support for local businesses. Spanning both urban and rural areas, they encourage sustainable tourism practices while preserving Thailand’s natural and cultural heritage, in line with the 2030 Sustainable Tourism Goals.

The reptile is seen wedged in the ceiling panels before it suddenly crashes to the floor, leaving staff and guests visibly startled. Workers then quickly secured the animal with ropes and carried it out of the room.

Komodo dragons, native to parts of southeastern Indonesia, are the world ’s largest lizards. While attacks on humans are rare, they can be dangerous due to their sharp teeth, powerful claws, and venomous bite.

Their venom prevents blood from clotting, which can lead to excessive bleeding and, in some cases, death without prompt medical attention.

If you missed part three of our series, be sure to catch up here , and to see the top places, click here .

Here are rankings 30–11.

30. Najwa Shihab (Indonesia)

Najwa Shihab is one of Indonesia’s most respected journalists, with a career spanning over two decades. She began as a reporter at RCTI in 1999 before joining Metro TV in 2000, where she gained acclaim for her live reporting from Aceh in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami, earning her the National Journalism Award from the Indonesian Journalists Association.

In 2018, she co-founded Narasi TV, a digital news platform that has made significant impact in investigative journalism and public discourse.

Check out her TikTok profile.

29. Bianca Alejandre (Philippines)

Bianca Alejandre is a Filipino journalist, host, and dancer currently serving as a courtside reporter for the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 100 on GMA Network.

Bianca brings a dynamic presence to the courtside, combining her passion for dance and hosting with her commitment to delivering engaging sports coverage.

Check out her TikTok profile.

28. Asran Shady (Indonesia)

Asran Shady is an Indonesian journalist and news presenter known for his work on Indosiar’s programs Fokus and Patroli. He studied Electronic Engineering at the University of Informatics and Business Indonesia before pursuing a career in journalism. Inspired by crime shows in his youth, Asran developed a passion for news presenting and has become a respected TV anchor.

In 2022, he covered the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, he remains active on social media, engaging with audiences by sharing updates from his professional and personal life.

Check out his TikTok profile.

27. Heru Hermawan (Indonesia)

Heru Hermawan is an Indonesian digital storyteller and independent journalist on TikTok. His videos include on-the-ground reporting, interviews, and commentary on social issues impacting local communities.

The format and presentation reflect a journalistic approach—complete with field footage and voice-over explanations—while staying true to his personal style and direct way of storytelling.

Check out hisTikTok profile.

26. Hans Christian Galeria (Philippines)

Hans Christian Galeria is a Filipino esports journalist, caster, and sports anchor. He currently hosts and provides analysis for the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League, Philippines (MPL-PH) broadcasts.

He is active both on TikTok and Instagram, where he shares updates on gaming events and basketball alongside his esports work. 

Check out his TikTok profile.

25. Busra Alvero (Indonesia)

Busra Alvero is an Indonesian travel journalist and digital storyteller known for his YouTube and TikTok content. He produces travel videos that showcase destinations across Indonesia, capturing on-the-ground experiences and cultural insights.

His content blends personal exploration with informative reporting for a digital audience.

Check out his TikTok profile.

24. Yuni Galuh Dirgantara (Indonesia)

Yuni Galuh Dirgantara is a journalist and reporter from Indonesia who shares news-style content on TikTok. Her videos often resemble reporting and public commentary, covering a mix of current events and local issues.

With a direct and engaging delivery, she uses the platform to inform her audience, combining field footage and voiceovers to make her updates accessible and clear. Her presence on TikTok reflects the growing use of social media as a tool for grassroots journalism in the region.

Check out her TikTok profile.

23. Aiman Witjaksono (Indonesia) 

Aiman Witjaksono is an Indonesian journalist with over 20 years of experience in television news. He has worked for major Indonesian media outlets, including RCTI, Kompas TV, and MNC Group.

At MNC Group, he served as Chief Editor of Sindonews TV and Deputy Chief Editor of iNews. In November 2023, he took a hiatus from journalism to become a spokesperson for the presidential campaign of Ganjar Pranowo and Mahfud MD. He resumed his journalistic duties in February 2024, returning to his roles at MNC Media.

Check out his TikTok profile.

22. Intan Saumadina (Indonesia)

Intan Saumadina is an Indonesian sports presenter and journalist. She gained prominence as a host for the opening ceremony of the 2021 PON XX Papua, a significant national sporting event. Beyond her role as a presenter, Intan has hosted various sports programs, including Hot Room and UEFA Champions League coverage, showcasing her versatility in sports journalism.

Her engaging presence and dedication to sports media have made her a recognized figure in Indonesia's sports journalism landscape.

Check out her TikTok profile.

21. Chantelle Hernandez (Philippines)

Chantelle Hernandez is a Filipino esports journalist and caster, recognized as the only female commentator in the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League – Philippines (MPL-PH).

Beyond her role as a caster, Chantelle is an advocate for gender equality in esports, actively promoting safe and inclusive spaces for women in the industry. She has been vocal about issues such as harassment and discrimination, using her platform to raise awareness and foster positive change.

Check out her TikTok profile.

20. Margaret Gambang (Malaysia) 

Margaret Gambang is a Malaysian journalist and media personality affiliated with Radio Televisyen Malaysia. She serves as a news presenter for Berita Perdana on TV1 and has been recognized with the Gold Award at the Malaysian Journalism Night 2025 in the category of National News Reporting.

Additionally, she has participated as a speaker at journalism forums organized by the Malaysian Press Institute and Universiti Sains Malaysia, aimed at aspiring journalists.

Check out her TikTok profile.

19. Thazin Nwe (Myanmar)

Thazin Nwe is a television presenter, MC, and media personality with over a decade of experience in the broadcast industry. She began her career with MRTV-4 and Channel 7 in 2011 and has hosted major programs such as Khit Thit Pyo May (Girls in New Era) and MasterChef Myanmar.

Her work reflects a deep involvement in public communication and broadcast journalism, contributing to Myanmar’s evolving media landscape.

Check out her TikTok profile.

18. Celine Murillo (Philippines)

Celine Murillo is a Filipino journalist, environmental storyteller, and filmmaker recognized for her work promoting Philippine biodiversity. She has contributed to various media outlets and collaborated with organizations like the United Nations Development Programme.

Additionally, she has been recognized as a Young ASEAN Storyteller by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity. Her journalism focuses on raising awareness about environmental conservation through articles, documentaries, and digital content that highlight the country’s natural heritage.

Check out her TikTok profile.

17. Rizzo Hamdi (Malaysia) 

Rizzo Hamdi is a Malaysian media professional engaged in journalism and broadcasting, serving as a radio announcer, TV newsreader and TV presenter. He is experienced in delivering news content across radio and television platforms, providing audiences with timely and accurate information.

His presence on social media offers insights into both his professional projects and behind-the-scenes aspects of his work in Malaysian media.

Check out his TikTok profile.

16. Nguyễn Việt Nga (Vietnam)

Nguyễn Việt Nga, is a Vietnamese journalist, presenter, and digital content creator. Active on Instagram and TikTok, she works as a sports reporter, covering events such as the Vietnam Basketball Association (VBA).

She shares insights and tips on becoming a sports presenter or journalist in Vietnam, drawing from her extensive experience in the field. In addition to journalism, Ngamazing is also a model, editor, actress, and founder of the fashion brand Alace Handmade.

Check out her TikTok profile.

15. Esra Freswita Ambarita (Indonesia)

Esra Freswita Ambarita is a passionate Indonesian journalist known for her dedication to field reporting and human-interest storytelling. She began her career after studying journalism and quickly transitioned into solo reporting, covering breaking news, community events, and cultural stories across Indonesia.

Notably, she shared experiences of reporting under challenging conditions and explained the emotional resilience required when facing interview resistance or stressful scenes.

Check out her TikTok profile.

14. Vũ Phương Thảo (Vietnam)

Vũ Phương Thảo is a Vietnamese sports journalist and esports host renowned for her work on major gaming events such as SEA Games 31 and Arena of Valor Premier League. She graduated from the Academy of Journalism and Communication and won the 2017 "Speak Up" MC contest.

She began her career at VTV before transitioning to become the lead MC and analyst for esports tournaments since 2019, demonstrating deep insight into gaming culture and audience engagement.

Check out her TikTok profile.

13. Kriss Fowler (Malaysia)

Kriss Fowler is a Malaysian multilingual host and presenter active on TikTok, where he shares cultural and event-based content. He works as an emcee for official ceremonies in Sarawak.

Through his coverage of local events, interviews, and public affairs, he also engages in community-focused journalism, using digital platforms to inform and connect with regional audiences.

Check out his TikTok profile.

12. Seng Moliny (Cambodia)

Seng Moliny is a Cambodian journalist and digital content creator specializing in sports and traditional Cambodian martial arts, known as kbach kun. She is active on TikTok, where she shares content related to sports events, interviews, and cultural topics.

Her work contributes to the promotion and coverage of Cambodian sports and cultural heritage.

Check out her TikTok profile.

11. Yasmin Athania (Indonesia)

Yasmin Athania is an Indonesian news anchor and journalist best known for presenting Buletin iNews Siang on GTV, where she delivers midday news coverage.

Her role involves reporting live news segments, conducting interviews, and presenting current affairs, positioning her firmly within Indonesia’s broadcast journalism scene.

Check out her TikTok profile.

Discover the next part of the list (numbers 10-1) on August 5.

This list was created with the help of  HypeAuditor  and is based on the  Audience Quality Score (AQS) . In case of a tie between two or more personalities, we used the engagement rate to establish the order. The keywords used in our search were 'journalist', 'journalism', 'host', 'reporter' and 'announcer' in all Southeast Asia countries.

Read more from this series exploring TikTok journalism across the Global South:

Top journalists in Africa. Part 3.

Top journalists in Africa. Part 2.

Top journalists in Africa. Part 1

Top journalists in Latin America. Part 4.

Top journalists in Latin America. Part 3.

Top journalists in Latin America. Part 2.

Top journalists in Latin America. Part 1.

What they said

“We have seen very positive development and results that would augur well for Cambodia and Thailand,” Anwar said as he stood alongside the two leaders. He added, “This is a vital first step towards de-escalation and the restoration of peace and security.” Hun Manet said he had “a very good meeting and very good result that we hope to stop immediately the fighting that have caused many lives lost.” He also praised Trump’s “decisive” role in facilitating the talks and expressed hope that the agreement would lead to the “rebuilding of trust and confidence” between the two nations. Phumtham, who had previously expressed scepticism about Cambodia’s sincerity, said the ceasefire would “be carried out successfully in good faith by both sides.”

With support from HypeAuditor , an AI-powered influencer marketing platform, we built the ranking using the Audience Quality Score (AQS) —a metric that goes beyond raw follower counts to assess real impact. AQS evaluates engagement, audience authenticity, growth patterns, and overall community quality.

This ranking reflects a broader transformation: journalism now lives on screens, scrolls, and seconds – and it’s speaking directly to millions.

If you’d like to check out the next part, click here , and if you want to see the top places, click here .

50. Hans Hamid (Singapore)

Hans Hamid is a Singapore based content creator and media commentator who shares lifestyle, motivational content, and social insights on TikTok, Instagram and X, where  highlights his engagement with media-related discussions.

Through thoughtful commentary and personal reflections, Hans blends creative digital storytelling with journalistic awareness, positioning himself as a mindful voice in Singapore’s media landscape.

Check out his TikTok profile.

49. Chua Qin Kai (Singapore)

Chua Qin Kai is a bilingual journalist and presenter at Mediacorp’s Channel 8 in Singapore. She anchors flagship news programmes like 10 pm News Tonight and co-hosts Hello Singapore , where she conducts live interviews with guests and political figures.

Qin Kai also reports and produces coverage across a range of topics including politics, economics, housing, and transport.

Check out her TikTok profile.

48. Edward Russell (Singapore)

Edward Russell is a British-Singaporean TV and radio presenter known for his work with Mediacorp, Singapore’s national broadcaster. He hosts the afternoon show Cartunes on Class 95 and has covered major international sports events like the Olympics, Formula 1 Grand Prix, and the Australian Open.

He also worked as a presenter for Fox Sports Asia, leading coverage of MotoGP and football. His approach to sports storytelling and live coverage incorporates journalism, highlighting his ability to inform and engage audiences effectively.

Check out his TikTok profile

47. Jade Seah (Singapore)

Jade Seah is a Singaporean media personality and former TV host known for her work on shows like The 5 Show and Hello! Singapore . She combines engaging storytelling with journalistic skills to connect with diverse audiences.

Beyond television, Jade shares wellness insights and personal experiences through various media platforms, continuing to build her presence in Singapore’s media landscape.

Check out her TikTok profile.

46. Karthik Kandthey (Singapore)

Karthik Kandthey, is a seasoned TV presenter and emcee based in Singapore. With over 14 years in the entertainment industry, he has hosted a wide range of events, from corporate functions to live concerts, and appeared on television, including Zee Tamil Entertainment.

His work combines live event hosting with elements of journalism, as he engages audiences through storytelling and public communication. 

Check out his TikTok profile.

45. Claire Jedrek (Singapore)

Claire Jedrek is a British-born, Singapore-based former race car driver turned TV presenter and broadcaster. She has hosted and commentated major motorsport events, including the Singapore Grand Prix and Blancpain GT Series Asia.

With over 18 years of experience in lifestyle, tech, esports, and fitness media, Claire combines on-screen presenting with journalistic storytelling, working across TV, live events, voice-over, and digital content.

Check out her TikTok profile.

44. Fizie Roslan (Malaysia) 

Mohamad Hafizie Roslan is a veteran Malaysian radio announcer and journalist with a career spanning nearly 20 years. He began his broadcasting journey at Manis FM and went on to host shows at Hot FM, Molek FM, and currently leads the Bro Pagi Gegar morning show on Gegar FM under Astro Radio.

As a radio presenter, he delivers news-style segments, interviews, and live community reports, often exploring social issues like his support for firefighters during Ramadan . 

Check out his TikTok profile.

43. Nursha Hassan (Malaysia)  

Nursha Hassan, is a Malaysian television news presenter for TV3’s Buletin Utama. Her platform features behind-the-scenes moments from her broadcasts and news updates in both English and Malay.

Additionally, she advocates for mental health awareness and hosts live segments aligned with Buletin Utama programmin.

Check out her TikTok profile.

42. Boo Trần (Vietnam)

Boo Tran is a Vietnamese host and presenter for the automotive show XE on VTC News TV. On TikTok he delivers engaging vehicle-related segments that include road safety tips, reviews, and on-the-ground coverage of driving culture in Vietnam.

His work combines informative reporting with casual, field-based storytelling, making transport news accessible and entertaining to a broad audience.

Check out his TikTok profile.

41. Ilham Irfan (Malaysia) 

Ilham Irfan is a Malaysian media professional who works as a radio news presenter, professional voice-over talent, and podcast/audio producer. He currently anchors English-language news on RTM and creates content in both English and Bahasa Melayu.

Producing audiobooks, voicing radio dramas, and narrating for corporate clients and government agencies, demonstrating a versatile presence in Malaysia’s audio journalism scene.

Check out his TikTok profile.

40. Norng Narin (Cambodia)

Besides covering sports and international news, Norng Narin a cambodian journalist, explores storytelling in other genres on his YouTube channel, including sharing suspenseful and atmospheric narratives.

This diverse content showcases his versatility as a journalist and content creator, engaging audiences beyond traditional news formats.

Check out his TikTok profile.

39.  Ezreena Amir Hamzah (Malaysia)

Ezreena Amir Hamzah is a Malaysian news presenter known for her work with TV3, one of Malaysia’s leading television networks. Besides her journalism career, she is also an accredited trainer with HRD Corp and works as an event planner at The Ceremony Event, showcasing her versatility beyond broadcasting.

On her TikTok account, she shares behind-the-scenes content from her professional life. Her multifaceted career highlights her skills in both journalism and event management.

Check out her TikTok profile.

38. Trung Nghĩa Võ (Vietnam)

Trung Nghĩa Võ is a Vietnamese travel journalist and content creator known for his engaging TikTok account “binological”. He shares immersive travel stories, highlighting Vietnam’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and lesser-known destinations.

Through his digital storytelling, he brings local experiences to a broader audience, blending informative travel insights with vivid visuals.

Check out his TikTok profile.

37. Jovi Lloza (Philippines) 

Jovi P. Lloza is a Filipino showbiz journalist and digital storyteller who goes by the on-screen name "Veejo Files". She is active on TikTok where she shares mini entertainment reports, celebrity updates, and behind-the-scenes content crafted like digital columns.

Check out her TikTok profile.

36. Ashikin Hashim "Futbolita" (Singapore) 

Ashikin Hashim, better known in social media as “Futbolita”, is a prominent Singaporean sports journalist, TV presenter, FIFA players' agent and entrepreneur, famously dubbed the "Female Voice of Football". In 2008, she founded "Futbolita", a platform for in-depth football interviews and insights, which expanded into TV presenting roles for networks like Eleven Sports and Astro.

Hashim is a FIFA-accredited journalist and agent, notably covering the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.  Her journalism blends tactical analysis, culture, and fan engagement across digital and broadcast platforms, empowering women in football and spotlighting Asian talent. 

Check out her TikTok profile.

35. Fi Austin (Cambodia)

Fi Austin is a Cambodian sports presenter, ring announcer, and commentator who has worked with CTN, CNC, MYTV, and PNN Sport. On TikTok, he shares dynamic behind-the-scenes content from live sports events and ring announcements.

His YouTube channel also features on-site coverage and sports commentary. As a sports journalist and presenter, Fi combines live event reporting with digital storytelling to engage her audience.

Check out his TikTok profile.

34. Randy Gragaz (Indonesia)

Randy Gragaz is an Indonesian media professional and content creator with a background in broadcast journalism. A former presenter for Jogja TV and JTV, he holds a Master’s degree in Communication Studies from Universitas Gadjah Mada.

On TikTok he shares engaging on-the-ground content featuring culinary spots and lifestyle segments across Surabaya and Yogyakarta.

Check out his TikTok profile.

33. Gretchen Ong Ho (Philippines)

Gretchen Ong Ho is a Filipino broadcaster and journalist who began her media career hosting sports shows like Gameday Weekend on ABS‑CBN Sports+Action. She went on to anchor major news programs such as Umagang Kay Ganda , TV Patrol and The Big Story on TV5 and One News. An accomplished former volleyball player for Ateneo, she has earned accolades including Best News Personality (2020 Paragala Media Awards).

In 2025, she launched her own solo news-interview program Morning Matter s on One News, marking a significant milestone in her evolving journalistic career.

Check out her TikTok profile.

32. Nutt Piyachat (Thailand)

Nutt Piyachat is a Thai TV journalist and news presenter at Thairath TV on Channel 32, well-known for his on-screen reporting style and field coverage.

He actively shares behind-the-scenes glimpses of his news work on his TikTok channel where he delivers live reports on current events and human-interest stories. 

Check out his TikTok profile.

31. Nicole Cordoves (Philippines)

Nicole Cordoves is a Filipino journalist, host, and media personality known for her articulate and engaging public presence. She first gained recognition as Binibining Pilipinas Grand International 2016 and placed first runner-up at Miss Grand International 2016.

Nicole has become a sought-after host and presenter, co-hosting major pageants like Miss Grand International 2017 and Binibining Pilipinas (2018, 2021–2023) alongside Catriona Gray and Pia Wurtzbach. 

Check out her TikTok profile.

Discover the next part of the list (numbers 30-11) on August 1.

This list was created with the help of  HypeAuditor  and is based on the  Audience Quality Score (AQS) . In case of a tie between two or more personalities, we used the engagement rate to establish the order. The keywords used in our search were 'journalist', 'journalism', 'host', 'reporter' and 'announcer' in all Southeast Asia countries.

Read more from this series exploring TikTok journalism across the Global South:

Top journalists in Africa. Part 3.

Top journalists in Africa. Part 2.

Top journalists in Africa. Part 1.

Top journalists in Latin America. Part 4.

Top journalists in Latin America. Part 3.

Top journalists in Latin America. Part 2.

Top journalists in Latin America. Part 1.

He said the next step is to finalise the legal language with the Attorney-General’s Chambers before the draft is brought back to the Cabinet for final approval.

The proposal is part of efforts to reduce overcrowding in Malaysia’s prisons, which now house more inmates than what it was originally built to contain.

Official figures show that prisons currently hold 83,808 people , even though their maximum capacity is 76,311.

Overcrowding in these prisons has been attributed to the high number of remand cases, especially for minor drug offences.

Saifuddin said 35% of the prison population is on remand, many under the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1952.

To tackle this, the new law would require some offenders to stay in a fixed location, such as their home or a care centre, instead of being locked up while electronic monitoring devices are used to track their movements.

“The issue is the definition of ‘shackles’. One interpretation of ‘shackles’ is handcuffs, but I tend to interpret that as including various devices,” Saifuddin told lawmakers during a debate on the national human rights report.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim first mentioned the plan in his 2025 budget speech, saying house arrest could be a more practical punishment for certain offences.

The bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament once all legal changes are agreed upon.

Could Botswana abandon death penalty to tackle gender-based violence?

President Duma Boko has called for a review of capital punishment’s role in addressing violent crime, especially gender-based violence (GBV), as such crimes continue to rise in Botswana despite decades of its enforcement. Read more here .

Massacre in Benue, relief in reforms: Can new tax laws ease Nigeria's security crisis?

Over 100 people were killed in a June 13, 2025 attack in Yelewata, Benue State, amid ongoing land conflicts between Fulani herdsmen and farmers, Amnesty International reports. With over 1,000 deaths since May 2023, violence persists. Meanwhile, President Tinubu's new tax reforms aim to ease the burden on low-income Nigerians by boosting disposable income. Read more here .

U.S. visa cuts on Africa—Is it really about reciprocity?

The U.S. has imposed new visa restrictions on Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Cameroon, reducing student, tourist, and business visas to single-entry with three-month validity. The State Department cites its Global Reciprocity Realignment—but is reciprocity the real motive? Read more here .

Asia

Over 200 Chinese children poisoned after school used paint in food: summary

Over 200 kindergarten children in Tianshui, China, were hospitalized with lead poisoning after staff used industrial paint pigments to color food. Authorities say 233 of 251 children were affected. The school principal and others are in custody. Some food samples had lead levels over 2,000 times the legal limit. Read more here .

Key events in the Air India crash investigation

A preliminary report on last month’s Air India crash, which killed 260 people, reveals the engines were starved of fuel seconds after takeoff when fuel cutoff switches flipped to “off.” Read more here .

China, Malaysia agree on reciprocal visa-free entry for tourists and business travellers

China and Malaysia will launch a reciprocal visa-free travel deal on July 17, 2025, allowing stays of up to 30 days per visit and 90 days within 180 days. It applies to Chinese official and ordinary passport holders and Malaysian ordinary passport holders. Read more here .

Latin America

Adriano Baracho: Covering climate, communities, and change in Brazil

Adriano, a one-man journalist for TV10 in rural São Paulo, has spent a decade covering local stories solo. Originally from the Amazon’s Pará region, he also documents climate change, deforestation, and Indigenous struggles from remote areas often overlooked by the media. Read more here .

Why Colombia is celebrating its independence day in another country

Colombia will celebrate its Independence Day in the Czech Republic for the first time this July 2025, as part of efforts to deepen cultural ties abroad. Organised by the Colombian Embassy and ASOCOLCZ, the event will be held on Saturday, July 19, at Betlémské náměstí in the heart of Prague. Read more here .

Trump intensifies trade war with threat of 30% tariffs on EU, Mexico

President Donald Trump has threatened a 30% tariff on imports from Mexico and the EU starting August 1, after trade talks stalled. Announced via letters posted on Truth Social, the move escalates tensions with key U.S. partners. Both Mexico and the EU criticised the tariffs as unfair but vowed to keep negotiating. Read more here .

Eligible travelers can stay up to 30 days per visit, with a cumulative maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period, Global Times reports.

The policy is seen as a major step forward in strengthening bilateral ties and boosting people-to-people exchanges. It comes amid growing travel demand between the two nations and is expected to significantly ease short-term mobility for individuals engaged in leisure, family, and commercial activities.

Travel platform Qunar.com reported that Malaysia is among the top three overseas destinations for Chinese tourists this summer, with a 43% year-on-year increase in hotel bookings. Popular Malaysian cities include Kuala Lumpur, Tawau, and Langkawi. In terms of outbound international air travel from China, Kuala Lumpur ranked as the most popular destination on the platform.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim spoke by phone with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on June 24 regarding the Iran-Israel conflict. According to Anwar, Pezeshkian expressed Iran’s willingness to cease military actions if Israel stops its attacks on Palestine and Iran. The Iranian president also asked Malaysia to convey this position to other Muslim countries to counter biased narratives.

Malaysia to impose 6% service tax on international private education

Starting July 1, 2025, Malaysia will implement a 6% service tax on private education services for international students under its revised Sales and Service Tax (SST) framework. The tax applies to preschools, schools, universities, and language centres. The Ministry of Finance clarified that the tax targets non-Malaysian students only; Malaysian students remain exempt. Private institutions with annual tuition exceeding RM60,000 (approximately US$14,155) must register for SST. All higher education and language centres serving international students must register, regardless of turnover.

Hyundai assumes full control of Malaysian operations

Hyundai Motor Company has established Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY), transitioning from a distributor-led model under Sime Darby Motors to a principal-led structure. The company now directly oversees brand operations in Malaysia, including marketing, sales, and customer experience. HMY’s new headquarters is located at Menara Affin TRX in Kuala Lumpur. According to HMY President Eric Lee, the move reflects a long-term commitment to positioning Malaysia as a strategic hub in ASEAN.

Lowest inflation rate in 51 months recorded

Malaysia recorded an inflation rate of 1.2% in May, the lowest in 51 months, according to official data released on Tuesday, June 24. The Department of Statistics Malaysia attributed the slower inflation to declining global oil prices, consistent with Malaysia’s status as an open economy. The producer price index fell by 3.4% in April, mainly driven by a 17.8% drop in the mining sector. Food and beverage prices, which make up 29.8% of the consumer price index, rose at a slower pace of 2.1% in May.

Malaysia explores Central Asia expansion via Uzbekistan

Malaysia plans to strengthen its market presence in Central Asia by positioning Uzbekistan as a strategic entry point, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. During his four-day official visit, Fadillah highlighted potential collaboration in sectors including energy, palm oil, and Islamic finance. Engagements with Uzbek officials and business leaders resulted in agreements to promote trade and investment, particularly in renewable energy and carbon trading. 

The death occurred during the second week of June and is the first COVID-related fatality reported since May 2024.

Last year, Malaysia recorded 57 deaths linked to the virus.

Officials say the overall situation remains stable, even as the country saw a 68% increase in weekly cases.

A total of 3,379 infections were recorded in the week ending June 15, up from 2,011 the week before. So far, Malaysia has recorded more than 21,700 COVID-19 cases in 2025.

Six patients, all with underlying conditions were admitted to intensive care during the latest surge.

Four of them have since been discharged and returned home, while two remain in hospital wards for further treatment.

The World Health Organisation is currently tracking a new COVID-19 subvariant known as NB.1.8.1 or “Nimbus,” which has been spreading quickly in several parts of Asia, including India, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand .

The variant is being monitored for its potential health risks and ability to spread more easily than earlier strains.

Health authorities in Malaysia are urging people to stay cautious, wear masks in crowded places, improve indoor ventilation, and stay home if unwell.

Inflation in Laos fell to 8.3% in May from 11.1% in April, according to the Lao Statistics Bureau. The sharpest increase was in housing, water, electricity, and gas (21.6%), followed by medical care (19.8%), household goods (16.3%), and education (15.5%). In response, the government has tightened monetary policy, with the central bank aiming to reduce inflation to single digits by 2025.

Russia's top prosecutor announces planned anti-terrorism cooperation with Laos

Russian Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov met Laotian President Thongloun Sisoulith to discuss strengthening law enforcement ties. Krasnov emphasised cooperation on issues like cybercrime, terrorism, drug trafficking, and corruption. He expressed confidence in deepening bilateral efforts. Sisoulith welcomed the visit, calling it "remarkable" and highlighting the potential for expanded collaboration.

Laos unveils new foreign policy for 2025

The Laotian government has introduced its 2025 foreign policy, focusing on enhancing ties with regional and global partners. Key priorities include economic cooperation, security, and sustainable development in response to global challenges. The policy was launched at an official event in Vientiane, attended by top officials and international representatives, according to Laotian Times . The move signals Laos’s ambition to play a more active role in Asia’s geopolitical arena.

Prabowo invites Laos PM to step up bilateral trade

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto invited Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone to boost bilateral trade during their meeting at the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur. He highlighted the need for joint efforts against drug smuggling, human trafficking, and online crimes. Prabowo praised Laos’s 2024 ASEAN chairmanship and proposed cooperation in minerals, agriculture, and fertilisers. He noted the slight trade decline and emphasised strengthening ties. Several Indonesian ministers joined the talks.

Laos, Malaysia form new strategic partnership to boost cross-border trade

Laos and Malaysia have established a strategic partnership to enhance cross-border trade via a new rail-sea route, marked by a Memorandum of Cooperation between Penang Port Sdn Bhd and Thanaleng Dry Port. The agreement was signed during Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone’s official visit to Malaysia, alongside Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. According to laopost.com , the initiative aims to strengthen economic ties and regional trade by utilising key logistics hubs—Thanaleng Dry Port in Laos and Penang Port in Malaysia.

In Sarawak, Chung Hua Primary School Boards Association president Datuk Jonathan Chai urged all schools to install Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to better respond to emergencies. At a safety seminar attended by over 180 teachers, Chai emphasised that educators must also be protectors, highlighting the importance of CPR and AED training. The event, organised with the Malaysian Red Cross, aimed to equip teachers with vital life-saving skills, The Borneo Post reported.

Southeast Asia seeks joint tariff talks with Trump

Southeast Asian nations will present a united front to address U.S. tariffs and other challenges, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said at the ASEAN summit. Anwar, this year’s ASEAN chair, is pushing for a joint meeting with President Trump to discuss tariff impacts, which range from 10% to 49% across member states. ASEAN has formed a task force to coordinate responses, while some members pursue bilateral talks. Anwar also highlighted Tuesday’s historic meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and the Gulf Cooperation Council, aimed at boosting regional cooperation. Leaders will unveil a 20-year plan for deeper integration. However, tensions remain with China over the South China Sea, with Philippine President Marcos Jr. urging a binding code of conduct. Anwar warned that the rules-based international order is under threat from arbitrary actions.

China's premier urges stronger trade ties with Malaysia

Chinese Premier Li Qiang urged deeper trade and investment ties with Malaysia during a meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, according to Xinhua. Visiting Kuala Lumpur for the ASEAN-GCC-China summit, Li emphasised defending multilateral trade and cooperation amid rising protectionism. Li’s call follows recent regional visits by Chinese leaders as Beijing looks to strengthen ties beyond the U.S. amid ongoing tariff tensions. He pledged closer economic collaboration with Malaysia and ASEAN-GCC nations to tackle global challenges.

Vietnam to export renewable energy to Malaysia, Singapore

At the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Vietnam signed a tripartite agreement with Malaysia and Singapore to export clean electricity, marking the first step toward cross-border renewable energy trade. Witnessed by Prime Ministers Pham Minh Chinh, Anwar Ibrahim, and Lawrence Wong, the deal supports ASEAN’s vision of a regional power grid. Malaysia’s MY Energy Consortium (TNB and Petronas) will partner with Vietnam’s PTSC and Singapore’s Sembcorp to harness Vietnam’s offshore wind energy for export. The deal aligns with Vietnam’s Power Development Plan 8, which targets up to 10 GW of renewable energy exports by 2035. Vietnam has over 470 GW of offshore wind potential within 200 km of its coast.

Malaysia PM hails key progress on Myanmar at ASEAN Summit

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Monday praised "significant" steps to engage Myanmar’s warring sides, as ASEAN leaders gathered in Kuala Lumpur to address the ongoing conflict and U.S. trade threats. Myanmar has faced turmoil since a 2021 military coup sparked a nationwide rebellion, displacing over 3.5 million people. As ASEAN chair, Anwar has led renewed peace efforts, including recent meetings with junta chief Min Aung Hlaing and Myanmar’s shadow government. He emphasised that while progress remains fragile, “even a fragile bridge is better than a widening gulf.”

Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin announced at the Malaysia Maritime Conference during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025.

He said the country must be ready for growing threats at sea and will rely more on shared intelligence and joint naval drills with other nations to improve safety and coordination.

According to The Edge Malaysia , the country also plans to update its laws to better deal with illegal fishing, pollution, and foreign ships entering its territory without permission.

Officials say these steps will help hold wrongdoers accountable and discourage criminal activity at sea.

Khaled said economic growth depends on keeping the seas secure.

According to him, illegal fishing, piracy, and smuggling continue to threaten Malaysia’s sovereignty and called for stronger patrols to protect trade routes and marine resources.

He added that newer technologies are helping security forces spot threats faster and study the deep sea more effectively.

The government hopes these moves will not only protect the country’s interests but also raise its profile as a key maritime player in the region.

The maritime conference is seen as a key moment for leaders, researchers, and defence experts to share knowledge and shape Malaysia’s future in sea security.