Inside Story

The Hong Kong Consumer Council recently released a report on the food safety of over 60 samples of pre-packaged biscuits and crackers, including Malaysia's own Hup Seng crackers. First, we take a look into the report and learn more about food safety and testing. Then, we get into how brands recover from these sorts of headlines. Image Source: Karol D, Pexels See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy...

Following the launch of the National Trade Blueprint by the Prime Minister, we look at the 'Made in Malaysia' brand, and how well it's doing. First, we discuss the strategies laid out in the blueprint, and how well they address Malaysia's current challenges. Next, we dive into the notion of what cachet Made in Malaysia holds, and how we can catch up with our neighbours. Image Source: zairiazmal, S...

On Inside Story today, we look into how our insurance policies cover mental health, following a recent interview on The Malay Mail with a mental health expert who suggested that insurance companies look into providing coverage for mental health treatment. First up, we discuss the kind of coverage that’s currently provided, and where the gaps are. Then, we look at what it should look like, if...

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission is looking to revamp its Code of Content for media and advertising. We look into this by first discussing what the code is meant to achieve. Then, what role does the media play in empowering people with disabilities? Finally, where does sponsored content enter the picture? (next line) The Content Forum is welcoming public feedback on the code....

Local whiskey brand TIMAH landed in controversy recently over the name of their product, with some parties seeing a religious connotation to it. First, we talk about the meaning of the word, and where this reaction is coming from. Then, we discuss how brands navigate cultural sensitivity in Malaysia. Image Source: TIMAH Official Facebook Page See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We look into the government's stance on those who have chosen not to get vaccinated, following the Health Minister's announcement that they would be making life "difficult" for these people. Firstly, we discuss this approach, and whether it would be effective. Then, we explore the multiple reasons for vaccine hesitancy, and what is needed to address it appropriately. Image Source: Thirdman, Pexels...

Malaysia has secured one of the 18 seats on the UN Human Rights Council, for the third time since the council's formation in 2006. We discuss if this is this significant, and what we are expected to do in this role. And then, we look at the most pressing human rights concerns here in Malaysia, especially as we emerge from the pandemic. Finally, where does the private sector come in? Image Source:...

We take a look at the housing situation in Malaysia, and address some current issues. First, we discuss reports that only four developers are capable of build-then-sell models - the most secure for first-time buyers. Then, we discuss whether affordable housing should be a human right. To conclude, we ask: how does the government enter the picture? Image Source: Pavi Kunusilin, Unsplash See omnystu...

We take a look at the housing situation in Malaysia, and address some current issues. First, we discuss reports that only four developers are capable of build-then-sell models - the most secure for first-time buyers. Then, we discuss whether affordable housing should be a human right. To conclude, we ask: how does the government enter the picture? Image Source: Pavi Kunusilin, Unsplash See omnystu...

On average, five couples file for divorce in Malaysia every hour. We look at the increasing divorce rates, and whether the system offers enough support for couples and families. First, Segambut MP Hannah Yeoh has highlighted the need for more help for families and children going through divorce - we discuss what that might look like. And then, what are the ins and outs of the divorce process itsel...

Following the launch of the new political party, Parti Kuasa Rakyat, we look into the emergence of new political parties and where they fit in our current system. First, we discuss what these new parties signify for our democracy and how they are affected by the coalition system. We then hear from new party, Parti Aspirasi Sains Malaysia, on how they're navigating all this. Finally, we revisit a c...

In conjunction with World Mental Health Day, we look into the various headlines about mental health that's been circulating in Malaysia. First, we look into the suggestion by our Health Minister DG Hisham to upskill doctors to account for our lack of psychiatrists, and how this would work. Next, following the Health Minister's announcement that MySejahtera will soon provide mental health assistanc...

In today's Inside Story, we look into the news of the abolishment of Section 309 of the Penal Code on the criminalization of suicide, following the statement made by Deputy Health Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang in yesterday's parliament sitting on this topic. First, we discuss how changing this law would help, and what else needs to be done to support it. Next, we revisit what Nurul Izzah Anwar a...

It has been announced that every Malaysians, including those who are abroad, will be automatically registered as voters by the end of this year. First, we cover the significance and impact of automatic voter registration. Next, we look at why it matters for people to vote in the constituency they live in. Finally, we discuss how this decision will impact overseas voters. Image Source: Lano Lan, Sh...

An image from a Form 3 Kesihatan quiz went viral recently, sparking off debate about the right approach to talk to children about sex. First, we discuss the role of education in creating awareness on sexuality and sexual abuse. Then, we discuss a new picture book which aims to teach young children about consent and personal safety.  Finally, how can you have THE talk with your kids? Image Sou...

We dissect the largest ever data leak on offshore dealings - the Pandora Papers. First, we look at what it was like to break the story. Then, we revisit a discussion from the Morning Run show earlier on the legality of the tax systems. Finally, what reforms do we need to ensure that financial loopholes don’t get exploited? Image Source: Giorgio Trovato, Unsplash See omnystudio.com/liste...

Today, we talk about our public transportation system and how we can do better. Firstly, following the recent audit of our Rapid Bus fleet that showed high costs of maintenance, we look at how to keep our public transport system cost efficient. Next, we discuss better planning and infrastructure. Finally, we look at ways to encourage people to be less reliant on cars. Image Source: withGod, Shutte...

Today marks the International Day for Older Persons, and we're bringing that into the spotlight. First up, we look into how older persons contribute to the economy. Next, we dive into how seniors can remain independent, and the kind of systems that are needed to support that. Finally, the best ways for them to care about their mental and emotional wellbeing. Image Source: Eduardo Barrios, Unsplash...

Yesterday, the Kuala Lumpur High Court acquitted and discharged the Pontian MP who was facing charges related to money laundering. This came after he paid a compound of RM1.1m. We first look at the verdict itself, and the fine he’s paying. Then, what might the political repercussions be? And finally, he claims that he’s the victim of a lack of political financing laws, so we talk about...

The Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) has launched a platform, Pantau Kuasa , designed to monitor political appointments in federal statutory bodies and government-linked companies (GLCs). First, we find out more about the project. Then, we talk about GLCs and the part they play in our politics. Finally, we explore how much we spend on GLCs, particularly salaries. Image Source:...

There’s been a lot of talk about whether we have enough money in our coffers, especially with the 12th Malaysia Plan being so ambitious. So first, we look at the pros and cons of raising taxes for high income earners. Then, we talk about alternative taxes that might work. And finally, what should be in place to ensure Malaysia’s financial security? Image Source: Mathieu Stern, Unsplash...

The 12th Malaysia Plan has been unveiled today aiming to create a more inclusive, sustainable and high-income country in the next five years. First, we examine the broad strokes of the plan. Then, we explore whether it is enough to set us on the path to economic recovery. And finally, with the plan's big promise of inclusivity, we find out if it delivered. Image Source: Parlimen Malaysia Facebook...

The government has said that it will work towards lowering the voting age from 21 to 18 by the end of this year. We explore the political implications of this move, given that it will translate to an addition of 1.2 million eligible voters in GE15. Then, we discuss how political parties will need to adapt to remain relevant. Finally, we look at the role of schools in expanding political awareness...

Groups have been calling for the inclusion of Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) programmes in secondary schools, adding to conversations of why it may be the future. First, we talk about how much jobs and careers have changed over time and where TVET fits in. Then, how we would integrate TVET into our school syllabus. And finally, we discuss what we can learn from other countries....

According to the PM, more Malaysians are slipping into poverty because of the pandemic. We look into what this means by first, understanding the statistics and what needs to be done. Then, we expand on reports that suggest women are returning to abusive partners because of financial pressures. Finally, do we need to be worried about structural unemployment? Image Source: Towfiqu barbhuiya, Unsplas...