◉ HEADLINES

geopolitical tensions

Malaysia may need billions more for defence as regional risks increase: Anwar

Prime Minister highlights evolving geopolitics, US-China tensions and developments near Sabah as reasons to boost defence allocation

‘I don’t care’: Trump indifferent on Iran’s World Cup future as conflict intensifies

As Middle East tensions escalate, questions arise over Iran’s ability to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Analysts urge stronger safeguards for Anwar as Israel’s aggression escalates

Experts warn Malaysia’s pro-Palestine stance has raised its global profile, calling for tighter protection of national leaders and reinforced cyber and intelligence defences

Malaysia watching global risks closely: Treasury secretary-general

Datuk Johan Merican says ongoing conflicts, especially in the Middle East, could impact oil prices and inflation, but internal estimates show SST effect on CPI remains minimal for now 

Malaysia seeks new palm oil buyers amid Israel-Iran, Russia-Ukraine turmoil

Johari says conflicts have made key markets high-risk, prompting Malaysia to expand exports beyond its 80 existing trading partners

◉ Popular

Cleared for layoffs? AirAsia to retrench 20% of workforce in major cost-cutting move

This allegedly involves cabin services, cargo and logistics, engineering and maintenance, as well as the commercial division, according to Scoop’s source

Short-lived La Niña expected in early 2026, but stable weather to follow

MetMalaysia forecasts cool conditions and brief shifts in rainfall patterns before returning to normal

Over 23.6 million to benefit as new electricity tariff kicks in July 1

The Energy Commission has set a new average base tariff of 45.40 sen/kWh for RP4, slightly lower than before, bringing overall electricity costs down by up to 19% compared to the previous regulatory period