In this episode, we sit down with Bersih’s Executive Director, Ooi Kok Hin, to discuss the “D” grade given to the Madani government for institutional reforms. We explore Bersih’s priorities for 2025, challenges in electoral reforms, and the role of civil society in driving change. Plus, we examine Malaysia’s political dynamics and Bersih’s biggest impact on the nation. Don’t miss this deep dive into Malaysia’s reform journey!

00:00 - Highlight

00:12 - Intro

02:35 - Zafrul into PKR

06:33 - BERSIH

14:30 - “D” grade for the Madani government

19:33 - PMX’s comment on the result

25:28 - How to evaluate our government?

34:50 - Theory of change for civil society

01:01:14 - What has Bersih done for the nation?

01:15:15 - Ending

#areweok #podcast #politics #malaysia #bersih #madanigovernment #civilsociety #reforms

In this episode, we dive into Malaysia's hot topics, including the controversial rollout of the second 5G network, contradictory statements by ministers on Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), and the delays in the National Digital ID project. We also discuss this year’s flood relief efforts, balancing short-term optics with long-term planning, and the implications of recent amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act. Don’t miss this one!

Article19: https://www.article19.org/resources/repressive-amendments-communications-multimedia-act/

Timestamp:

00:00 - Highlight

00:17 - Welcome back!

03:05 - 2nd 5G Network

17:10 - Will UMobile Be Replaced?

20:20 - Anwar Expressed Frustration on 2nd 5G Network

26:00 - Why Not Engage People Experienced with Rollouts?

36:25 - Flood Relief Efforts

52:10 - Communications and Multimedia Act 1983 Amendments

01:08:00 - Ending

In this episode, we explore Tun Daim’s legacy and the connection between politics and business over the past 40 years. We also discuss the Sabah whistleblower scandal and its implications for state politics. Lastly, we examine PKR’s disciplinary action against the Pasir Gudang MP and its potential impact on the party and coalition politics. Don’t miss this insightful look into Malaysia’s political landscape!

In this episode, we explore Indonesia’s political landscape, focusing on Jokowi’s legacy, Prabowo’s new cabinet, and what’s next for Indonesia’s governance and economy. We discuss the potential impacts of Jokowi’s influence, Prabowo’s leadership style, and how these shifts might shape Indonesia’s future on the regional & international stage. Don’t miss this in-depth look into the dynamics of Indonesia’s evolving politics!

In this episode, we break down the recent DAP Selangor elections, looking at how the elections are conducted, the power structure in DAP Selangor, and the reasons behind Gobind's loss—comparing it to Tony Pua’s defeat in 2018. We also discuss what’s next for DAP in Selangor. In the second half, we examine the potential impact of a Trump 2.0 presidency on Malaysia, including key takeaways for Malaysian political parties and possible economic implications for Malaysia and the region. Don’t miss these insights!

Timestamp: 

00:00 - Highlights

00:15 - Welcome back!

04:05 - The dynamics within DAP Selangor

19:30 - Gobind fails to get re-elected to the Selangor DAP committee

25:18 - What happened to Gobind?

47:05 - Could Bossku become PM again?

58:27 - How does Trump’s win affect the economy in Malaysia and Southeast Asia?

01:16:45 - Ending

In this episode, we cover Najib’s recent apology, the reactions from key political figures, and whether forgiveness is even possible. We also dive into the controversy surrounding PNB and Khazanah's investment into FashionValet, exploring public concerns and MACC's involvement. Lastly, we discuss the recent 2nd 5G network license awarded to UMobile and the potential impact on Malaysia’s telecom industry. Tune in for insights on these major current issues in Malaysia!

In today's episode, we have special guest, Dr. Wong Chin Huat, who's a political scientist discuss Malaysia's journey toward political & institutional reform. We explore the current Madani government’s work on key reforms, such as constitutional amendments, rights for stateless children, and separating the Attorney General’s roles. Dr. Wong also highlights challenges in parliamentary and electoral reform, political financing, and the fair seat distribution in Parliament, offering insight into what’s needed to strengthen Malaysia's democracy. Lastly, we talk about the delimitation exercise and how it affects constituency lines that are drawn by the Electoral Committee and the issues that constituencies face when the EC splits constituencies apart.

In this episode, we dive into the key highlights of Budget 2025, discussing Malaysia’s macroeconomic outlook, progressive policies for the T15, and the impact of newly implemented policies on businesses, both MNCs and SMEs. From tax measures such as the expanded SST coverage, and high-value goods taxes, we discuss whether it was a good decision to not reintroduce GST. We then go into the new green investment initiatives driving sustainability in line with the 12th Malaysia Plan, and more subsidy reforms aimed at reducing costs for the government. In this episode, wee cover what this budget means for the economy, industries, and the people. Tune in for insights, analysis, and our wishlist for the next Budget!

In this episode, we talk about what happened with the JPJ App and MyDigital ID that caused a U-turn in policy. Then we go into the ringgit's recent appreciating performance and its impact on businesses. We also discuss The Edge’s 30th anniversary and updates on the 1MDB scandal. Lastly, we analyze the Mahkota by-elections and the dynamics between UMNO and DAP in the unity government. Don’t miss out on these key updates!