Malaysia has solidified its position as a dominant hub for data centres in Southeast Asia, attracting massive investments from global tech giants. But with newly announced power tariffs set to increase costs for large-scale operators, is that dominance now in jeopardy?

Alexander Kheder, TMT Analyst at BMI, joins us to analyse how these new tariffs could prompt a "gradual diversion of investments" to peer markets like Indonesia and Thailand. He discusses the critical power challenges facing the industry and argues that the tariffs will accelerate the pivot to sustainability, turning green credentials into the new competitive edge.

We discuss:

• The key factors behind Malaysia's data centre dominance.

• How new power tariffs will impact costs and future projects.

• Why sustainability is becoming a key competitive differentiator.

• The risk of investment diversion to regional competitors.

• The specific impact on high-demand, AI-focused data centres.

  For investors, tech leaders, and policymakers, this is a key analysis of the risks and opportunities shaping the future of digital infrastructure in the region.

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With the US announcing 25% tariff on Malaysian goods, businesses are bracing for a potential economic slowdown. This "tariff tangle" has already prompted a downgrade in Malaysia's 2025 GDP growth forecast, creating significant uncertainty for exporters and policymakers alike. So what is the real impact, and what is the best strategy forward?

Firdaos Rosli, Chief Economist at AmBank Group, joins us to dissect the implications of these new trade barriers. He explains which sectors are most at risk, how Malaysia's competitiveness stacks up against regional rivals like Vietnam, and what our long-term trade strategy should be in an era of increasing geopolitical tension.

We discuss:

• The real impact of the 25% US tariff on Malaysia's economy.

• Which sectors are most at risk (and why semiconductors were spared the worst).

• How Malaysia's competitiveness compares to regional peers.

• The government's policy response and ongoing negotiation strategy.

• The long-term need to de-risk the economy from geopolitical influence.

For business leaders, exporters, and policymakers, this breaks down the challenges and strategies for navigating a volatile global trade environment.

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In an era of interconnected "poly-crises". from geopolitical tensions to cybersecurity threats and climate risks, how can organisations build true resilience? The answer may lie in redefining the role of a traditionally overlooked function: internal audit.

Derek Lee, Vice President of The Institute of Internal Auditors Malaysia, joins us to explain why the role must evolve from a reactive "policeman" focused on past compliance to a proactive, forward-looking strategic advisor.

He discusses Malaysia's significant corporate resilience gaps and how internal audit is becoming crucial for navigating modern challenges like ESG compliance and cyber threats.

We discuss:

• The shift from a "policeman mindset" to a "trusted business partner."

• Why only 2% of Malaysian organizations are prepared for today's key risks.

• The growing challenge of ESG compliance and Scope 3 emissions reporting.

• How AI is enabling auditors to focus on high-value strategic advisory work.

• The "three lines model" for organizational risk and accountability.

  For board members, C-suite executives, and risk professionals, this explores how to leverage internal audit as a strategic asset to navigate uncertainty and build a resilient organization.

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Mergers and acquisitions often grab headlines with promises of synergy and growth. But the reality is that many M&A deals fail, not only failing to create value but actively destroying it. So what separates a successful corporate marriage from a costly divorce?

Ng Zhu Hann, CEO of Tradeview Capital, joins us to dissect the art and perils of M&A. He pulls back the curtain on the real motivations behind deals, the critical importance of cultural alignment over simple business synergy, and the common pitfalls that lead to value destruction.

We discuss:

• The real motivations for M&A, from strategic growth to short-term KPI chasing.

• Why most deals fail due to poor integration, overpaying, and value misalignment.

• Strategies for minimizing risk, including staying within your "circle of competency."

• The challenge of valuing companies in a disruptive tech landscape.

• Key red flags that investors should watch for in any M&A announcement.

For CEOs, business leaders, and investors, this is a masterclass in the strategic thinking required to navigate the high-stakes world of corporate M&A.

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Malaysia is shifting gears in its electric vehicle journey. Cities like Petaling Jaya are racing ahead with  plans to install 1,000 EV chargers by 2030, with the first 100 already in place.

But not everyone is cheering. In Taman Tun Dr Ismail, residents have raised concerns that newly installed chargers are eating into precious public parking space, highlighting a tension many urban areas face: how do you balance the needs of today’s communities with the demands of a cleaner, greener tomorrow?

We speak with Wan Agyl Wan Hassan, Founder of My Mobility Vision, about why such pushbacks happen, what’s at stake for city councils and residents alike, and how Malaysia can roll out EV infrastructure that works for both progress and people.

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Southeast Asia has become ground zero for the digital nomad movement, with hotspots like Bali and Bangkok leading the way. But is Malaysia keeping up? From the rollout of digital nomad visas to a growing network of co-working spaces, the pieces are starting to fall into place. Still, questions remain about whether the country is ready to compete with its neighbours, and what role local startups might play in shaping a remote-first future. Gary Bowerman, Co-Founder at High-Yield Tourism, joins the conversation.

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Central banks globally are tasked with maintaining price stability, typically by managing interest rates. But what if this entire approach is fundamentally flawed and the source of the very economic instability it's meant to prevent?

Economist Dr. Carmelo Ferlito, CEO of the Center for Market Education, joins us to make the case for a radical rethink of modern monetary policy. He argues that by interfering with market forces, central banks create "monetary disorder," leading to distorted investments, asset bubbles, and unsustainable booms.

We discuss:

• Why monetary policy must look beyond just price stability.

• The definition of "monetary disorder" and how it manifests.

• The argument for abolishing central bank-directed interest rates.

• Why fiscal discipline is essential for any sound monetary policy.

• The case for moving from discretionary to rule-based frameworks.

  For economists, policymakers, and anyone interested in the fundamental debates shaping our economy, this is a challenging and thought-provoking exploration of monetary reform.

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Urban revitalisation is sweeping across Malaysian cities, with PJ Old Town as a focal point. But can efforts to modernise historic areas uplift communities without displacing them? Urban planner Mustapha Kamal joins us to discuss the economic logic behind revitalisation, the risks of gentrification, and what it takes to create growth that’s both inclusive and sustainable.

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Stablecoins are being positioned as the critical bridge between traditional finance and the world of blockchain, with the potential to transform how businesses move money and raise capital. But as Malaysia explores this new frontier through regulatory sandboxes, what are stablecoins really, and what will it take to adopt them safely and effectively?

Tech lawyers Ong Johnson and Lo Khai Yi, Partners at Halim Hong & Quek, join us to demystify the world of stablecoins. They break down the different models (fiat-backed, asset-backed, and algorithmic), explain the current gaps in Malaysia's regulatory framework, and make the case for how to build public trust in digital currency.

We discuss:

• The different stablecoin models and which one suits Malaysia best.

• The role of regulatory sandboxes in fostering innovation safely.

• The current "black hole" in regulations for issuing stablecoins.

• How to build trust through clear legal frameworks and reserve backing.

• The potential impact of stablecoins on business and cross-border trade.

  For business leaders, policymakers, and investors looking to understand the future of digital assets in Malaysia, this is an essential legal and strategic guide.

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Southeast Asia's e-commerce landscape is entering a new era. The 'land grab' phase of rapid growth is over, replaced by "E-commerce 3.0", a new game focused on profitability, sustainability, and platform dominance, where giants like Shopee, TikTok Shop, and Lazada now control 84% of the market.

Jianggan Li, CEO of Momentum Works, joins us to unpack the key findings from their latest "E-commerce in Southeast Asia 3.0" report. He dissects the major trends reshaping the industry, from the explosion of live commerce to the massive potential of AI to unlock over $130 billion in additional value by 2030.

We discuss:

• The strategic shift from a "land grab" to a "margin game."

• How live and video commerce now drive 20% of all e-commerce sales.

• The rise of Chinese brands and what it means for local players.

• The role of AI in improving efficiency and personalizing a buyer's journey.

• The POP leadership framework for navigating this new, complex landscape.

  For e-commerce leaders, brands, sellers, and investors, this is an essential guide to the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of digital commerce in Southeast Asia.

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