Are We OK?

How Selangor Is Building Southeast Asia's Chip Corridor | Beyond the Data Center Hype | EP 99 23.06.2026 52นาที

In this episode of Are We OK, we sit down with YB Ng Sze Han (Selangor Exco for Investment, Trade, and Mobility) and Yong Kai Ping (CEO of SIDEC) to unpack Selangor's aggressive transformation into a regional high-tech powerhouse. We explore how the state is moving rapidly into high-value sectors, from aerospace manufacturing and autonomous transport to setting up groundbreaking tech hubs.We dive deep into the success behind Selangor's IC Design Park and the Advanced Semiconductor College of Malaysia (ASCM), detailing the massive resource investments required to train top-tier chip engineers. Finally, our guests share exclusive details on major upcoming initiatives for 2026. They break down the upcoming launch of the Rancangan Selangor Kedua (RS2) five-year plan, the expansion of the Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS) to Bandung, Indonesia, and Selangor's strict new 30% local content requirement and industrial water conditions for incoming data centers.Chapter Marker:00:00 - Intro05:07 - Selangor’s Economic Mindset: "Continuity with Evolution"07:01 - Building an Ecosystem for the Selangor Aerospace Industry08:10 - Yong Kai Ping & SIDEC: Driving E-Commerce & Startups to Global Standards11:09 - The Semiconductor Leap: Scaling Fresh IC Design Engineers12:13 - Shifting from AI Nusantara to the Advanced Semiconductor College of Malaysia (ASCM)17:53 - Complementing Penang & Executing the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS)23:38 - Silicon Valley Mission & Leveraging Overseas Malaysian Professionals25:28 - MB Amirrudin Shari's Visionary Leadership & "Selangor Speed" Execution29:20 - Testing Autonomous Transport, Robot Trucks & Drone Tech33:04 - Preparing for the Aging Society & the Care Economy via Rancangan Selangor Kedua (RS2)35:53 - SIBS 2026: Scaling the ASEAN Talent Hub & Expanding to Bandung40:52 - Managing Data Centers: Water Reserve Strategies & 30% Local Content (LED) Policy45:50 - Cheap GPU Tokens & Training SMEs with the Vira AI Program47:26 - Combating Negative Viral News Through Direct Youth Engagement51:28 - Re-strategizing Selangor's Economy for Global Resilience with Financial Experts#AreWeOK #SelangorEconomy #YBNgSzeHan #YongKaiPing #SIDEC #ICDesign #SemiconductorMalaysia #DataCenters #MalaysianPolitics #RancanganSelangor #RS2 #SIBS2026 #AutonomousTransport #DigitalEconomy #MalaysiaTech #AmirrudinShari

Is RM1.99 Petrol Over? | Why Malaysia Wins FDI | Billionaires Eye GE16 09.06.2026 58นาที

In this episode of Are We OK, we sit down with Yun Liu, Senior ASEAN Economist at HSBC, to discuss why Malaysia is Asia’s "quiet overachiever". We break down the hard fiscal truths behind Malaysia's massive petrol subsidies as global oil prices surge past $100 , and examine what international investors are looking for ahead of the upcoming GE16 election. We also dive into "durian economics" explaining how Vietnam rapidly captured China's massive market over Malaysia —and look at the structural hurdles and shifting supply chains shaping the future of ASEAN.00:00 - Trailer 00:26 - Intro & Guest Introduction: Meeting HSBC's Yun Liu 01:45 - From the IMF to Hong Kong: Yun Liu's Global Background 12:37 - Mapping the ASEAN Economy: Who is Leading the Race? 14:31 - The Massive Footprint of Chinese FDI in Southeast Asia 16:17 - What Does an Economist Actually Do? 21:57 - Durian Economics: Why Vietnam is Crushing Malaysia in Exports 31:04 - Diversity in ASEAN & Penang as the Silicon Valley of the East 34:10 - Deep Dive into Vietnam's Rapid Economic Rise & Energy Risks 41:10 - Malaysia: Asia's Quiet Overachiever? 43:23 - The Ticking Fiscal Cost of RM1.99 Petrol 48:32 - Prediction Time: What Global Investors Expect From GE16 52:17 - Outro: Ipoh Dreams & Unforgettable Malaysian Hospitality#AreWeOK #MalaysiaEconomy #GE16 #HSBC #YunLiu #DurianEconomics #MusangKing #Subsidies #ASEAN #FDI #PenangSiliconValley #VietnamEconomy #MalaysianPolitics #FiscalReform

Why We Left Anwar’s Cabinet | Inside The PKR Drama | Bersama Takes Off | EP 97 06.06.2026 1ชม. 39นาที

In this episode of Are We OK, former minister Nik Nazmi opens up about the massive internal fractures shaking the government and PKR. We dive into the behind-the-scenes drama.We also break down the high-stakes launch of Bersama, the brand-new political party founded by Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi. Why did these long-time reformists abandon the party they spent 20 years building? Finally, we discuss the heavy policy battles that defined his time in office including the shift away from blanket subsidies and how Malaysia's rare earth minerals are getting caught in a global US-China Cold War.Timestamps00:00 - Intro01:20 - The Launch of Bersama: A Political Startup10:45 - Reality of Power: Missing the Cabinet Cut in 201823:30 - Breaking Stigmas: Mental Health in Malaysian Politics48:20 - Rare Earths & Geopolitics: Navigating US vs. China58:08 - Losing Anwar’s Inner Circle & Splitting the Ministry1:01:20 - "Fixed" Party Polls & Resigning From Cabinet1:20:32 - Fantasy Politics: Could KJ Ever Join Bersama?1:34:10 - Defensive Strategies & The Battle for Pandan#AreWeOK #MalaysianPolitics #NikNazmi #RafiziRamli #AnwarIbrahim #Bersama #PKR #UnityGovernment #RareEarthMinerals #CabinetDrama #MalaysiaNews

Tony Pua Said What?! | Rafizi’s New Party Drama | Early Election? | EP 96 29.05.2026 34นาที

In this episode of Are We OK?, things get real. We’re diving straight into a massive political bombshell: Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi have officially resigned as MPs to start a brand-new political party. Is this a bold move for change, or a chaotic play that will tear the government apart? Next, we look at the sudden uproar surrounding Tony Pua. Finally, the battle lines are being drawn for an explosive election season. We talk about the tense situation on the ground in Johor , why the usual political attacks aren't working anymore , and our exact timeline for when we head back to the ballot box. 00:00 - Teaser 03:34 - The Resignation Shockwave: Rafizi’s Huge Gamble 12:01 - Tony Pua’s Post: Did He Just Cross the Line? 20:58 - Johor PH Convention: Why the Strategy is Backfiring 31:09 - Prediction Time: The Secret Election Timeline 34:02 - Outro & Next Guest Announcement #AreWeOK #MalaysianPolitics #RafiziRamli #NikNazmi #TonyPua #PakatanHarapan #BarisanNasional #JohorElections #MalaysiaNews

Rafizi - The Next Leader? | Opposition vs Insider | Policy, Tax & Economy Breakdown | EP 95 05.05.2026 2ชม. 7นาที

In this episode of Are We OK, we break down the growing political speculation surrounding Rafizi Ramli and whether a high-stakes contest in Bandar Tun Razak could signal deeper tensions within the government. Is this a real political battle or just noise?We also examine Rafizi’s evolving role as a political figure: Is he more effective as an opposition voice rather than an insider within the system? The discussion expands into broader questions about governance, political strategy, and whether personality-driven politics is overshadowing real policy debates.Finally, we explore key economic and policy issues shaping Malaysia today from taxation and fiscal decisions to the wider economic direction of the country and what it means for everyday Malaysians.

In this episode of Are We OK, we dive into the high-stakes world of Malaysian politics and pressing social issues. We debate the strategic timing of the next General Election, analyzing whether a "sooner rather than later" approach favors Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim amidst global economic instability. We also explore the impact of political "superstar" return to UMNO and the shifting dynamics between major political coalitions. Finally, the conversation shifts to public policy, addressing the controversial "coffee fiasco" and the critical brain drain crisis currently hollowing out Malaysia’s medical sector.

Life as a Professional Runner | Challenging Official Records | Opposing the Singapore National Olympic Council ft. Soh Rui Yong | EP 93 25.03.2026 2ชม. 16นาที

In this episode, Dr Ong Kian Ming is joined by Soh Rui Yong, a celebrated professional runner from Singapore, recognized as the nation's fastest marathoner and a two-time SEA Games gold medallist. They discuss Rui Yong’s journey to represent Singapore, his entanglement with sports governing bodies, and his controversies with other athletes.

James Chai Investigation | DAP Congress 2026 | Cancelling Raya Celebrations | EP92 17.03.2026 49นาที

In this special episode of Are We OK, we break down several major developments in Malaysian politics, from the investigation involving James Chai and the potential response from Rafizi Ramli, to the failed proposal to limit the Prime Minister’s term to 10 years.We also discuss the upcoming vote on separating the Attorney General’s Chambers from the Public Prosecutor, the implications of the DAP Special Congress in July 2026, and the government’s decision to cancel Raya celebrations for government agencies and GLCs.00:00 — Highlight02:15 — Investigation Against James Chai & Political Implications04:25 — Rafizi Ramli’s Team and the ARM Deal Controversy30:17 — DAP Special Congress in July 2026 & Its Implications32:07 — Is the DAP Congress a Signal to the Prime Minister?42:49 — Government & GLC Raya Celebrations Cancellation#AreWeOK #MalaysianPolitics #JamesChai #RafiziRamli #DAP #MalaysiaGovernment #MadaniGovernment #Politics#MalaysianEconomy

Council Elections in KL? | Can MHIT Help Malaysians? | EP91 26.02.2026 1ชม.

This week Rajiv and Peter discuss the recent DBKL moves, the government’s announcement of a Base Medical and Health Insurance/Takaful (MHIT), subsidizing of the M50 Pass, Pig Farm Ban in Selangor and the new EV import rules set by the government.

Tun Razak’s Legacy | Unfolding the NEP ft. Tan Sri Nazir Razak | EP 90 20.02.2026 1ชม. 20นาที

In this episode, Peter and Ong Kian Ming are joined by special guest Tan Sri Nazir Razak to discuss how Tun Razak has shaped Malaysia and how his policies were misinterpreted by others.

10 Suggestions for the MADANI Government | EP 89 20.02.2026 1ชม. 13นาที

In this episode of Are We OK, we unpack the deeper structural issues facing Malaysia beyond politics, beyond daily news cycles.We discuss:• Why SMEs feel squeezed despite “positive” economic numbers• Whether institutional reforms have truly been implemented• The tension between political survival and long-term national planning• Brain drain and talent competitiveness• Industrial strategy and whether Malaysia knows its direction• Why poor policy execution could cost votes• And the uncomfortable question: are we stuck in the middle?This is not a shouting match.It’s a serious conversation about systems, incentives, and whether Malaysia can compete in the long run.If you care about the country’s economic future, institutional strength, and the real impact of policy decisions this episode is for you.Chapters00:00 - Highlight00:30 - Intro2:12 – Are Malaysia’s “Good Numbers” Misleading?4:10 – SMEs Are Getting Squeezed From All Sides6:15 – Institutional Reform: What Has Actually Changed?10:02 – Political Incentives vs Long-Term National Planning14:45 – Brain Drain & Talent Retention19:30 – Industrial Policy & Economic Direction24:50 – Are We Stuck in the Middle?31:10 – Governance & Bureaucratic Bottlenecks38:40 – Public Expectations vs Political Reality45:20 – Can We Actually Compete Regionally?52:00 – Education Policy & Long-Term Impact58:30 – What Needs to Change?1:05:00 – Final Thoughts#Malaysia #AreWeOK #EconomicPolicy #SMEs #BrainDrain #InstitutionalReform #Politics #Governance #education

KL Mayor Elections? | PM Term Limit | National Education Blueprint | EP 88 20.02.2026 1ชม. 7นาที

In this episode, Peter and YB Rajiv discuss the recent controversy surrounding YB Hannah Yeoh’s mention of Mayoral Elections in KL, 2-Term Limit for PM and other positions, and new developments in the National Education Blueprint.

UMNO AGM, National Education Blueprint, Sunway-IJM Merger | EP 87 20.02.2026 49นาที

In this episode, Peter and YB Rajiv discuss UMNO’s internal dynamics, the announcement of placing STPM and Matriculation under MOHE, and Sunway’s RM11 Billion bid for IJM.

PN Break-Up, UMNO Leaving MADANI?, Army Corruption Case | EP 86 20.02.2026 57นาที

This week, Peter and YB Rajiv discuss Muhyiddin resigning as PN Chairman, calls for BN to leave the MADANI government, and a corruption scandal unfolding within the Army.

Cabinet Reshuffle, Policy Implications, DAP Ultimatum | EP 85 23.12.2025 1ชม. 25นาที

In this episode, special guest Dr Ong Kian Ming joins Peter and Rajiv in discussing the recent cabinet reshuffle and its controversies, DAP’s recent announcements, as well as their aspirations for the future.

Melaka Police Shooting Case, Future of MCA, Shift to Public Transport | EP 84 19.12.2025 54นาที

This week, Peter and Rajiv discuss the controversy surrounding the Melaka police shooting case, the challenges and future of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA), and the push for a major shift to public transport.

The Sabah Elections: The Aftermath | EP 83 09.12.2025 1ชม.

This time, our hosts Peter "Mr Money" Yong and Rajiv Rishyakaran dive into the Sabah elections, and dissect the wins, the losses, and why they happened. Join the duo as they discuss the course of the elections and the impact the loss will have on DAP.Disclaimer: Please be aware that this episode has some audio issues. We apologise for the inconvenience.

Sabah Elections, New Selangor MB, and The Next General Elections | EP 82 09.12.2025 1ชม. 11นาที

Join our co-hosts Peter "Mr Money" Yong and Rajiv Rishyakaran as they dive into the ongoing Sabah elections, discuss the possibility of a new Selangor Menteri Besar, and explore political advancement and what could happen in the next general elections as Rajiv shares his own experiences working in politics.

The PAS-Bersatu Rift, Religious Politics, and Opposition Plans | EP 81 09.12.2025 1ชม. 42นาที

In today's episode, our co-hosts Rajiv Rishyakaran and Dr Tricia Yeoh welcome special guest Machang MP Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal as he shares about the rift between PAS and Bersatu, how religious politics work differently, and potential plans from the Opposition.

US–Malaysia ART Deal, BUDI 95 Breakdown, BNPL Issues & Cabinet Shake-Up | EP 80 19.11.2025 1ชม. 27นาที

This week, Peter and Ong Kian Ming break down the Malaysia–US ART deal and whether it really puts Malaysia at a disadvantage. They also explore the implementation of BUDI 95, discuss the rising concerns around BNPL usage, and look into the upcoming cabinet reshuffle including the big names being floated.Timestamp:0:00 – Introduction3:12 – What Is the US–Malaysia ART Deal?6:20 – Is Malaysia Giving the US Too Much Power?18:40 – What Indonesia Gets vs What Malaysia Gets22:00 – The “Malaysia Must Follow US Sanctions” Misinterpretation32:10 – Wong Chen, Parliamentary Process & Internal Tensions46:10 – BUDI 95 Breakdown: How the Subsidy Works1:10:20 – BNPL Risks & Youth Debt Concerns1:24:20 – Cabinet Reshuffle: Big Names & What to Expect1:27:03 – Closing Thoughts