Asian Insider: Malaysia Edition helps you connect the dots on the biggest stories playing out in Malaysia every week. Sign up here to get the newsletter in your inbox.
Things are looking on the up for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim who will go into 2025 buoyed by an uptick in approval ratings as compared to 2023. This is mainly thanks to an improvement in economic conditions, according to a recent survey.
But politically, Malaysia continues to see a string of divisive issues. This includes the public caning of a man for breaking rules prohibiting close proximity under syariah law in the conservative Muslim state Terengganu, as well as the decision to transfer the troubled Bandar Malaysia development to state oil giant Petronas, after a start-stop journey following the scandal-hit 1MDB.
Our correspondents also take a deeper look at controversies that have gripped the chattering classes. Former members of the Global Ikhwan group, now deemed a deviant cult by authorities, have claimed that their lives were marked by orgies, beatings and child abuse before they left.
A clutch of Malaysia’s top influencers including the likes of entrepreneur Vivy Yusof, actress Che Ta and cosmetics mogul Datuk Seri Vida have also been accused of abusing public funds or failing to pay their bills despite living lavish lifestyles.
Follow ST’s coverage as we continue to bring you the latest developments.
Have a happy new year.
PM Anwar’s approval ratings improve on investment push: Survey
Public caning in Terengganu over syariah offence sparks tensions
The carpenter’s punishment was witnessed by 70 pre-selected individuals, including government officers.
Bandar Malaysia’s revival in good hands with new owner, say analysts, but critics question deal
The stalled megaproject was originally intended to be the terminus for the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail.
Johor sees uptick in Q3 home sales, but experts advise caution amid ample supply
Johor continues to record some of the highest property overhang levels in the country.
Malaysia readies itself for nuclear power after 2035
Given its 2050 net-zero target, it may have no choice but to make nuclear a part of its energy mix.
Malaysia mulls over health and competency tests for seniors renewing driving licence
Critics say youth-related reckless driving and poor vehicle maintenance cause more accidents.
From secret society to karaoke club: Malaysia’s Chinese clan associations fight to stay relevant
Only 20 per cent of the existing associations may survive in the near future, says an expert.