South Korea economic growth roared past estimates in Q1, thanks to chips
SEOUL: South Korea's economy beat expectations in the first quarter of 2026 to recordthe fastest growth since mid-2020, as booming semiconductor demand offset the drag of weak public spending, central bank data showed on Thursday.
‘Reform, recalibrate response to global changes’
Malaysia should reform or recalibrate its response to changes in the global architecture, especially in trade, as they occur, says Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) chairman Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Necessity-led firms offer shelter as sentiment dips
Consumer companies with a necessities-oriented product mix are expected to fare better amid disruptions from the Middle East conflict.
Jakarta holds the line on subsidised prices
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia warns prices of non-subsidised fuels could rise again as global oil prices remain volatile.
Malaysia should reform, recalibrate response to global changes, says Tengku Zafrul
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia should reform or recalibrate its response to changes in the global architecture, especially in trade, as they occur, said Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) chairman Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Singapore says trade through Malacca Strait must remain free
Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said passage through the straits of Malacca and Singapore, a key trade chokepoint brought into focus by the war in Iran, must remain free for all and that the city-state won't support any efforts to restrict it.
Tech sector to improve on pricing, AI demand
Improvement in price adjustments and growing exposure to artificial intelligence data centres (DCs) within analogue semiconductors are positive factors supporting the local technology sector, moving forward.
E&E demand to support export growth in 2026
Exports are expected to stay strong into 2026, helping to support overall economic growth despite rising global risks.
Regional investment key to Asean growth
Domestic companies need to look beyond investing solely in one another and take a more deliberate, strategic approach to investing across the region.
Matrade aids MSME exports with RM5bil scheme
The government's RM5bil financial guarantee initiative for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) is expected to provide a significant boost to the sector, particularly exporters, by strengthening their working capital and sustaining trade momentum amid current cost pressures.
