Bold, independent coverage of Malaysian politics, business and current affairs.
ASEAN's internal trade currently lags below 25 percent of total commerce, requiring significant expansion to achieve the region's ambition of becoming the world's fourth-largest economic bloc by 2030, according to Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
Southeast Asian nations are accelerating economic integration while tackling security threats and natural disasters. Indonesia and Thailand eye US$20 billion bilateral trade by 2030, while Singapore restricts public officer directories amid rising scams.
Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has stepped down as Indonesia pursues tariff relief for palm oil exports. Across Southeast Asia, leaders strengthen regional cooperation on security, law enforcement, and trade resilience amid US pressure.
The United States has imposed a 12.5% tariff on Singapore and 44 other nations, alleging inadequate enforcement of forced labour prohibitions. Singapore contests the findings and plans further dialogue with Washington.
Malaysia's Food and Drinks Malaysia exhibition is forecast to surpass last year's RM1.081 billion in sales, buoyed by robust international participation and growing demand despite geopolitical pressures driving up costs.
Investment banks project Malaysia's exports will grow robustly in 2026, with RHB Investment Bank upgrading its forecast to 21.7% from 15.3%, citing strong electrical and electronics sector performance and continued global tech demand.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has instructed the Transport Ministry to engage in discussions on utilising ports along the Malaysia-Thailand border and in Penang, following bilateral talks with Thai counterpart Anutin Charnvirakul.
Indonesia's state logistics agency Bulog is actively negotiating rice export agreements with Malaysia and Singapore, involving 200,000 and 10,000 tonnes respectively, while managing price discussions and ensuring domestic farmer interests are protected.
Australian logistics software giant WiseTech Global announced that co-founder Richard White has resigned as executive chair following media reports of personal allegations. Independent director Raelene Murphy assumes the chair role.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged rural entrepreneurs to think beyond Malaysia's borders, tapping into ASEAN and global halal economy opportunities. The government has supported 7,000 new rural entrepreneurs generating over RM1.77 billion in sales.