KUALA LUMPUR: In the latest episode of Beyond the Headlines, the show delves into the recent news of Tesla, the leading US electric carmaker, pulling out of its plans to expand operations in the region.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in response to the news, says that Tesla is struggling to compete with Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers in Southeast Asia, who have offered more affordable models and grown in popularity here.
It follows China's BYD reporting a 21 per cent increase in second-quarter sales this year.
In contrast, Tesla posted a 6 per cent drop in vehicle deliveries for the April-June quarter, marking the first time the US firm has recorded two consecutive quarters of decline.
Hosts Hazween Hassan and Hana Naz Harun, joined by Malaysian Electric Vehicle Owners Club (MYEVOC) head Datuk Shahrol Azral Ibrahim Halmi, explore how these developments impact the growing local EV market and the future of investment opportunities in the auto industry.
In the second half of the show, New Straits Times sports editor Ajitpal Singh provides insights into the recently concluded Paris Olympics and recaps Malaysia's performance.
We reflect on what can be described as a disappointing outing at the Paris Games. Ajitpal offers his perspective on the backlash Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has faced for not meeting the 'Road to Gold' (RTG) targets.
The RTG program—a multi-million ringgit initiative launched last year—aims to provide Malaysia's top athletes with the support they need to achieve the nation's long-awaited breakthrough: winning its first Olympic gold.
While Hannah has acknowledged the public's criticism and disappointment, she maintains that the RTG programme remains on track as a long-term investment in the nation's sports development and has not yet failed.
Catch the full discussion on YouTube at @NSTOnline.