KUALA LUMPUR: In the latest podcast episode, we delve into the anticipated strong dividends from the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) and Amanah Saham Bumiputera (ASB), driven by improved equity market performance and stable interest rates.
The EPF's gross investment income has grown by 20 per cent compared to the previous year, setting the stage for a notable dividend. ASB is similarly positioned to benefit from the positive market trends and the unchanged Overnight Policy Rate (OPR).
Additionally, the episode covers the launch of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). Malaysia's Economy Minister, Rafizi Ramli, highlights the zone's potential to manage geopolitical risks and attract global companies.
Malaysia and Singapore will provide infrastructure and financial support, with Malaysia offering tax incentives to encourage new investments.
Public transport upgrades in Johor are also on the table to accommodate anticipated growth, with insights from Bank Muamalat chief economist, Dr. Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid.
The podcast also recaps the ongoing legal controversy involving Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
The existence of a royal addendum that could have allowed him to serve his sentence under house arrest has sparked intense debate.
The Court of Appeal has permitted Najib to contest this addendum, further fueling political discourse. Najib's lawyer has introduced a letter from the Pahang Sultanate Council confirming the addendum as part of Najib's appeal.
This development has led to opposition accusations of government concealment, countered by the Home Ministry's denial of the addendum's existence.
To ensure transparency, PKR leader Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar has called for the declassification of the Pardons Board meeting minutes and do away with attempts to politicise the matter.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil emphasized the government's adherence to legal procedures and the sub judice principle, maintaining that the issue remains within the jurisdiction of the Pardons Board.
This controversy underscores the intricate balance between Malaysia's legal system, public trust, and the monarchy's constitutional role, with potential implications for the country's political landscape.