Kuala Lumpur's trusted voice for news, politics and business.
Britain's economy is demonstrating measurable gains from the artificial intelligence revolution, with the technology sector accounting for nearly half of second-quarter growth and investment in computer hardware reaching near-record levels.
Malaysia's economy is expected to sustain its strong performance in the second half of 2026, with the government implementing measures to stabilise oil supplies and leveraging major events like Formula One racing to boost growth.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced that Budget 2027 formulation will commence next month, with tabling scheduled for early October. The budget will prioritise translating economic growth into genuine improvements in living standards.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has unveiled a strategic overhaul for Malaysia's Immigration Department, positioning it as an economic catalyst alongside its security role, with focus on digital innovation and integrity.
Malaysia's major investment banks have significantly raised their export growth forecasts for 2026, with RHB Investment Bank projecting 21.7% expansion. Strong electronics and technology demand, particularly from AI and semiconductor sectors, are driving the upgraded outlook.
A RM81.92 million road project linking Lukut and Kampung Sirusa in Port Dickson has achieved 60.57 per cent completion, running 43 days ahead of its original timetable. The 10-kilometre development is expected to enhance regional connectivity and support socio-economic growth.
Malaysia's central bank is expected to keep interest rates unchanged through 2026 as economic growth strengthens and inflation remains under control, according to multiple research houses.
Sarawak's Batang Lupar 1 Bridge officially opened, eliminating reliance on ferry services and connecting four coastal districts. The 4.8km infrastructure project forms part of a broader RM3.21 billion coastal road initiative expected to accelerate economic growth across the region.
Nobel Prize-winning economist Christopher Pissarides cautions that artificial intelligence cannot resurrect the rapid productivity growth of past decades, with substantial portions of the workforce remaining unaffected by automation.