FROM October 26 to 28, 2025, Kuala Lumpur emerged as the epicentre of Southeast Asian diplomacy as Malaysia hosted the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits. Guided by the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’, With Timor-Leste’s historic entry as ASEAN’s 11th member and the signing of transformative economic agreements, Malaysia’s stewardship
BULLYING in schools – be it verbal, physical, social or online – has recently dominated headlines, exposing its damaging effects: anxiety, depression, poor academic performance, and low self-esteem. Three tragic incidents in West Malaysia in the weeks highlighted the urgent need for community-led solutions. Volunteerism offers a powerful path to
Malaysia’s Budget 2026 UNVEILED by Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, under the theme ‘Belanjawan MADANI Keempat: Belanjawan Rakyat’, Malaysia’s Budget 2026 stands not just as a fiscal plan but as a national manifesto of hope, equity and renewal. With a record-breaking allocation of RM419.2 billion, it
IN an era defined by rapid technological transformation, the question of graduate readiness has never been more pressing. Universities continue to produce graduates in record numbers – over 40 million globally in 2023 alone, according to UNESCO – yet industries are evolving at a pace that challenges even the most
IN the span of a week, I had the privilege of attending two remarkable milestones: the 30th anniversary of Kuching Mandarin Toastmasters, Club No. 6622 on September 14, in Kuching and the 35th anniversary of Sibu Toastmasters, Club No. 7861 on September 21, in Sibu. These gatherings were more than commemorations –
AS the year-end monsoon season is approaching, the rising waters and overflowing drains are more than just a familiar inconvenience – they are a mirror reflecting our collective habits, priorities and responsibilities. While Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are often confined to corporate boardrooms and sustainability reports, their true
AS of March 2025, Malaysia’s household debt reached RM1.65 trillion, equivalent to 84.2 per cent of GDP. Household financial assets, however, remained higher at RM3.4 trillion (178.2 per cent of GDP), according to the Finance Ministry. While this asset buffer provides some comfort, the rising pace of borrowing highlights growing
“Respect is earned but dignity should never be denied.” WORKPLACE harassment is a silent epidemic that cuts across all ranks – from junior clerks in rural offices to senior executives in city towers. It’s not merely a lapse in professionalism; it’s a breach of law and a betrayal of basic
IN today’s fast-moving, digital-first world, much of our communication happens silently. We type messages, send emails and post captions on social media. Words are everywhere – but often without the sound of the human voice behind them. Yet one of the most overlooked but powerful tools of communication remains our
SCHOOLS are envisioned as sanctuaries – spaces where children not only gain knowledge but also forge friendships, cultivate character, and unlock their potential. These institutions should foster growth, curiosity, and confidence. Yet, recent headlines have cast a troubling shadow. For thousands of students nationwide, the classroom has become a source