Hollie Peabody returns to work in the prisons service after getting to the semi-finals of The Voice.

Jonathan Edge was caught selling reprogrammed Firestick devices after advertising on Facebook.

British Vogue's editor says skinny models are back "in", partly fuelled by weight loss drug Ozempic.

Many online are raising questions about a recent spate of public violence, as officials continue to censor discussion.

Spain's Civil Protection Agency sent a mass alert to phones warning of an "extreme risk of rainfall".

'Affordable' & 'precision rifle' are two terms rarely found together, which is why the Bear Creek Arsenal BC-10 Side-Charging AR-10 Upper is so interesting.

A review of the Ruger LC Charger in 5.7x28. An accurate, reliable little PDW, that comes at a great discount compared to the P90.

US Cartridge 9mm 147 Grain JHP LE Contract Overrun ammunition, 200 rounds for $67.44 or $0.34 each with a coupon code. There is FREE shipping for orders over $149.

For advocates of universal gun rights, this debate represents a fundamental question about the nature of the Second Amendment: is it an American right or a human right?

The Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24mm SFP Illuminated Rifle Scope Gen IV for just $299.19 with FREE Shipping after a coupon code at checkout.

A new Trump administration will be far better prepared to restore Constitutional order than the first Trump administration.

For now, there are several good choices for gun owners that DeWine can make, a few problematic ones, and one that’s completely unacceptable, his previous pick Dolan.

The Swampfox Warhorse is an FFP LPVO in the 1-6X range with a 34mm tube. Confused as to what all that means? Well let's dig in.

So, any thought of disobeying them must be destroyed – along with anyone daring to spread the idea that the oath is to the Constitution, not to a regime and its unlawful orders.

The NEXTORCH PIONEER PROFESSIONAL MULTI TOOL is a stout multi-tool that can hold up to tough tasks and offers a few features others don't.

The lever-action shotgun has been with us for a long time, and here’s to hoping it will be around a lot longer.

Plano Field Ammo Box Heavy-Duty Storage Case - $6.99  each with FREE returns and FREE shipping for order over $35.00.

Archon Firearms and the Type B are far from the typical company or product and it shows. Video tabletop and shooting impressions review.

Discover the Personal Defense Weapon (PDW) - the perfect balance of firepower and portability for those in need of a defensive weapon.

President Donald Trump laid out a bold vision for America’s future—one where freedom of speech is non-negotiable, and censorship from both government and big tech is crushed.

The gun prohibition lobby is promising to double-down its efforts to push through more restrictive gun laws in the wake of Donald Trump's momentous election victory.

With Herrera as ATF director, there’s a real opportunity to bring accountability, strip away flawed regulations, & dismantle the entire diseased temple.

If you thought the leftist backlash during Trump’s 1st term was bad, these coddled, indoctrinated adult children will take up a renewed Resistance” against Freedom & American values.

In our civilization, any application of lethal force upon another human being is a fantastically high-stakes affair! Even if it saves your life!

When you think of punk rock, your mind might jump to rebellious music, hardcore shows, & underground clubs—not the firearms industry. However, for KAK Industry...

Can we at least have some time for public input on something that can profoundly affect us all before sneaking this through?

IN the spirit of sharing and spreading happiness this Raya, SK magic, South Korea’s leading home appliances brand recently launched the JIKSOO Ria, its latest tankless water purifier that is affordable to all.

True to its commitment to inspire all Malaysians to live a quality and healthy lifestyle, the JIKSOO Ria is affordably priced to encourage Malaysians to start caring about their water intake and stop drinking from stagnant water sources, a known bacteria and algae breeding pool, commonly found in tanked purifiers.

Priced at RM3,800, this latest addition to SK magic’s range of advanced JIKSOO technology water purifiers comes with innovative nanotechnology filtration system and water tab UV sterilisation system that filters viruses, bacteria, microplastics and heavy metals, while allowing essential minerals to pass through.

As the pioneer in tankless technology, SK magic advocates that clean and fresh drinking water is not a luxury and should be accessible to all Malaysians, because everyone deserves the best.

BERJAYA SOMPO INSURANCE BERHAD (Berjaya Sompo) is set to provide complimentary daily hospitalisation income benefits to all SOMPO Health, SOMPO MedicNow, and SOMPO CashNow policyholders to help them navigate uncertainties from possible side effects of Covid-19 vaccination.

Berjaya Sompo policyholders who are covered under the above-mentioned policy can claim up to RM1,000 if they are required to be hospitalised resulting from sickness due to Covid-19 vaccination as advised by a medical practitioner.

Berjaya Sompo has three individual insurance products that cater to different needs - SOMPO Health offers comprehensive medical insurance coverage with higher annual limits up to RM500,000 from as low as RM2.50 per day.

SOMPO MedicNow is a medical insurance that provides coverage for hospitalisation, surgical expenses, kidney dialysis, cancer treatment, and other related benefits up to RM100,000 annual limit from as low as RM1.20 per day. SOMPO CashNow is ideal for customers with a lower budget as it offers basic insurance coverage for death and bodily injury resulting from accident, daily hospitalisation income as a result of injury or illness, and hospitalisation allowance due to Covid-19 from as low as RM0.31 per day.

Berjaya Sompo is committed to caring for and protecting Malaysians who are facing temporary financial setbacks during these challenging times. The brand remains steadfast in providing the necessary health insurance protection for its customers during this pandemic.

For more details on SOMPO Health, policyholders are advised to contact their servicing agents or visit www.berjayasompo.com.my. For SOMPO MedicNow and CashNow which are exclusively available online, you can visit https://online.berjayasompo.com.my/medicNow/ and https://online.berjayasompo.com.my/cashNow/ respectively.

THE long wait is nearly over for football fans, as UEFA Euro 2020 finally hits our screens this month! In conjunction, Heineken, the proud official beer partner of UEFA Euro 2020, is encouraging Malaysian fans to join in the fun with its new campaign ‘Enjoy the Rivalry’ and stand to win amazing prizes.

After more than a year of waiting, UEFA Euro 2020, a global event set to have 5 billion viewers, will finally take place from June 12 to July 12, 2021. Twenty-four of Europe’s best teams will compete for the title, reigniting old football rivalries and instigating new ones.

Heineken believes the fun of rivalry doesn’t stop on the field, though – much of what makes football great is the friendly rivalry between fans. After all, unity isn’t what makes football exciting: rivalry does!

Accompanying the campaign is a range of Limited Edition Heineken UEFA Euro 2020 bottles and cans, featuring the flags of participating teams.

Available in special combo packs at participating supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores and on Drinkies – Heineken Malaysia Berhad’s home delivery service – the Limited Edition designs are the perfect way to show your support and let the rivalry commence!

Bring the rivalry fun to the next level from June 10 to July 4 with the Heineken Rivalry Stadium (www.heinekenrivalrystadium.com.my), and stand to win a once-in-a-lifetime final viewing experience in the comfort and safety of your own home.

Pick a celebrity opponent, challenge them, and try to outsmart their predictions on a series of matches to be in the running to win an exclusive Heineken Home Stadium, with everything you need to watch the UEFA Euro 2020 final in style!

With opponents like football legend Datuk Soh Chin Aun, futsal player Steffi Sidhu, TV football pundits Michelle Lee and Mark O’Dea, and content creator duo MusangKing to challenge, the rivalry will be fierce!

“UEFA EURO 2020 is just around the corner and what better way to celebrate than with Heineken and your best rivals by your side. At Heineken, we believe that rivalry is at the core of football – there’s fun in being rivals because it makes the games that much more exciting for us as fans. As the official beer partner of Europe’s most prestigious international football tournament, Heineken and Heineken 0.0 are the perfect choices when it’s time to reach for a beer during a match,” said Pablo Chabot, Marketing Director of Heineken Malaysia Berhad.

CLOSE to one million youths have successfully claimed their eBelia credit via ShopeePay. As of June 7, the programme has succeeded in generating sales amounting to 120% of the total amount disbursed by the Ministry of Finance (MOF) through ShopeePay. Additionally, some 140,000 sellers and traders that accept ShopeePay have already benefited from the eBelia programme.

Head of ShopeePay Malaysia Alain Yee said: ”As one of the newest mobile wallets to enter a crowded space, it is indeed humbling to receive the resounding support from eligible eBelia participants. When compared against MOF’s announcement, the bulk of the 1.7 million successful applicants have chosen ShopeePay. This is possibly because our e-wallet can be used both online and offline nationwide, with a reach as far and wide as Semporna, Sabah; Miri, Sarawak; Kemaman and Gong Badak in Terengganu and Bachok, Kelantan.”

Yee added that based on the preliminary data from June 1 till 7, user behaviour amongst eBelia recipients suggest that the programme has driven adoption of e-wallets and is likely going to lead to long term usage.

“Of the total successful eBelia applicants via our mobile wallet, about 40% are new ShopeePay users that activated their e-wallet just for eBelia. Additionally, we are positive that customer retention rate amongst these new users will be high as over 20% have already topped up their e-wallet at least once within the first week of using ShopeePay,” he explained.

On what the recipients have been spending on, Yee shared that many were seen to be using the eBelia credit on very practical purchases: daily necessities, food and beverages, books, as well as home and living items, among others. A closer look into the spending pattern of these eBelia youths for the past week reveals the following (Observations are made based on top 100 merchants by transactions recorded offline, online (merchants’ webstores and Apps), and on Shopee.

STARBUCKS is once again collaborating with Stacey Bendet, CEO and Creative Director of top fashion house alice + olivia to offer a stylish designer merchandise collection, available for a limited time at select Starbucks stores across Malaysia.

With Stacey’s fun and sophisticated eye for design, the highly anticipated Starbucks X alice + olivia collection showcases two whimsical designs, including the iconic Stace Face, and a modern interpretation of the Stace Face with a colourful twist.

“Starbucks and Stacey Bendet are united by their aspiration to create unique and delightful experiences,” said Erin Silvoy, vice president, Product and Marketing, Starbucks Asia Pacific.

“Since our very first collaboration with alice + olivia, our customers have kept asking for more. Now, we’re excited to launch a new Starbucks X alice + olivia collection with bold, yet chic designs fit for everyday occasions, to encourage our customers to embrace self-expression and give them the confidence to live a life in style.”

Bendet herself added: “Both Starbucks and alice + olivia love creating unique and empowering experiences.

“With our rainbow Stace Face designs we hope to bring some colourful fun to the world!”

The exclusive collection will bring fashion and style to life once more, with a unique lineup that includes mugs and waterbottles, such as:

► Small Tote – The timeless look of the humble tote bag is reimagined with a modern interpretation of the ‘Stace Face’ with a colorful and stunning twist. Featuring an interior pocket that is lightweight, this bag is great for on the go.

► Bearista Bear – A soft and fluffy reinterpretation of the Bearista Bear wearing a custom sweater designed in the renowned alice + olivia style, which is matched only by the embroidered alice + olivia shoes.

► 12oz Ceramic Mug – The glossy clear-glazed stoneware gives this mug its special character. The handle is painted by hand with the mug body available in two different designs, one with the colorful spectrum of the Rainbow Stace Squad, and one of the Iconic Stace Face.

► 16oz Stainless Steel Tumbler – This tumbler is sure to keep your beverage at a perfect temperature whether it’s hot or cold with the innovative thermo 3D Double Wall vacuum insulation technology, as well as the medical-grade stainless steel so that there is not transfer of flavours or metal after taste. Available in two designs, the Rainbow Stace Squad and Iconic Stace Face.

► 16oz Ceramic Double Wall Traveler – Insulated with a double-wall construction with flat-white paint and an opaque black lid, which uses a slide open/close function for convenient use. Available in two designs, the Rainbow Stace Squad and Iconic Stace Face.

The limited-edition designer collaboration will be available beginning Sept 28, and priced from RM98 onwards, at select Starbucks stores across Malaysia, while supplies last.

THE term “trial by media” gained popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
It refers to the impact of television and newspaper coverage on an individual’s reputation, often shaping public perceptions of guilt or innocence before a court has rendered its verdict.

Trial by media creates a reality shaped more by perception than by objective truth, where opinions are formed before verified information can be fully assessed.

The delicate balance between sense and sensationalism, news and noise, civility and chaos, and balance and extremism can also become increasingly distorted.

The Ulu Tiram and GISBH cases have driven the media into a frenzy as both are considered matters of public interest. From broad overviews to minute details, nothing has been spared in the reporting.

Public comments reflect feelings of anger, resentment, frustration and disappointment toward the accused
or state institutions. Even the names of witnesses are often anticipated, jeopardising the confidentiality of the case.

A lackadaisical attitude in handling high-profile cases can ultimately lead to witnesses becoming hostile or biased.

The current situation illustrates how trial by media can create its own narrative, potentially undermining fair judicial proceedings and damaging the reputations of those involved.

It can also contaminate and influence witnesses’ memories, stances and views. Even if an accused individual is acquitted, the public may still perceive the person as guilty, leaving the individual’s reputation tarnished despite a verdict of innocence.

While the creation of social media has given us an extensive space to express our opinions, the lack of policing and regulations has allowed the widespread of rumours and prophecies in court cases.

The news disseminated through mainstream and social media can create multiple ideas, often leading to the presumption of guilt or innocence for the accused before the trial even begins. This is the exact definition of trial by media.

The principle of sub judice (under judicial consideration), though relevant, appears to be overlooked in the public discourse surrounding ongoing trials. The rule on sub judice seeks to safeguard the sanctity of court proceedings and ensure a fair trial for the accused in criminal cases.

Therefore, it would be apt for lawyers, prosecutors and the judiciary to take cognisance of the current situation and devise certain measures to ensure the impartiality of witnesses, and to avoid any spillage or contamination of evidence.

Expert witnesses, if appointed under section 45(1) of the Evidence Act, should not only be someone who is qualified in “science or art” but have a track record of being impartial and have not or will not mislead the court.

Impartiality here refers to individuals who abide by the law and do not have a track record of promoting repealed laws or overruled cases.

Although the court has the discretion to decide whether the expert evidence
is admissible, it is imperative for
experts to be scrutinised by the courts before accepting their views and opinions. In any event, it is trite law that expert opinion is not binding upon the court.

While the media shapes public debate and highlights cases of public interest, the unparalleled capacity of social media also offers lawyers an opportunity to volunteer and represent offenders who are in dire need of representation. Beyond concerns about legal fees, this is about striving to uphold justice. Some cases are simply meant to be pro bono.

With the proliferation of information available through mainstream and
social media platforms, lawyers and prosecutors should seize the opportunity to scour important details from these channels.

Unfortunately, very few lawyers have taken the bold step to assist those in desperate need of legal representation.

With the National Legal Aid Foundation unable to represent detainees under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 during their trials and its potential dissolution, what would become of the poor and marginalised groups in need of legal representation?

Where are the pro bono lawyers
who are expected to uphold justice
and ensure the right to a fair
trial as enshrined in the Federal Constitution?

Legal advocates would do well to remember Martin Luther King Jr’s quote: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

While no one can deny the media’s sterling role as the keeper of conscience and unraveller of wrongdoings, it is equally undeniable that the media has been able to entice vast reporting and responses from the public.

Therefore, it is essential to establish clear rules and regulations to safeguard individuals’ right to a fair trial, as stipulated in the Federal Constitution. Ultimately, what we seek is justice for all.

The writer is a criminologist and the deputy dean (Higher Degree) of
Faculty of Law, Universiti Malaya.
Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

MALAYSIAN consumer associations have been around since the 1960s. However, today we have few that are active and serve consumer interest.

They should continue to fight for consumer rights nationwide and address issues that require better consumer education, stronger laws and enhanced regulatory frameworks, especially in commerce.

Many of these associations face several challenges when it comes to consumer protection, despite existing legal frameworks such as the Consumer Protection Act 1999. The main issues stem from a combination of factors, including:

Limited awareness: Many consumers are not fully aware of their rights under consumer protection laws. This lack of awareness leads to consumers not filing complaints or pursuing justice when their rights are violated.

Weak enforcement: While there are laws in place, the enforcement of these laws can be inconsistent. Regulatory agencies sometimes lack the resources or the will to take effective action against businesses that violate consumer rights.

Online transactions: With the rise of e-commerce, there have been increasing complaints about fraud, counterfeit goods and scams. Consumer protection laws are still catching up to fully address issues arising from online transactions, leaving many consumers vulnerable.

Delayed resolutions: Consumers often face long wait-times when filing complaints or seeking compensation. Dispute resolution mechanisms can be slow, which discourages consumers from pursuing complaints.

Misleading advertisements: There have been cases of misleading or false advertising where consumers end up buying products or services that do not meet expectations. The penalties for businesses engaging in such practices are not always strong enough to act as a deterrent.

Price gouging: In certain industries, especially during times of crisis, for example, the Covid-19 pandemic, price gouging can be a significant issue, with some businesses exploiting consumers by drastically raising prices on essential goods.

The government also has a duty to see that consumer associations function as they should and continue to stay active, and that they are fully supported.

Consumers should take action to defend their rights and ensure they are not violated while pursuing consumer protection.

Bulbir is a former president of the Negeri Sembilan Consumers Association. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

I WRITE this letter with a heavy heart. After nearly three decades of loyalty to Malaysia Airlines (MAS), it pains me to say that our national carrier, once a symbol of pride and prestige, is rapidly losing its appeal.

As a frequent traveller since my 30s and 40s – flying MAS monthly for work across the globe – my commitment to our national airline has remained steadfast. Even in the face of criticisms, I stood by MAS, altering flights and routes just to support it.

Today, in my late 50s, I still travel monthly to Sarawak and take an annual trip abroad to Mecca. However, I now find myself questioning whether this loyalty is justified.

Sarawak is a gem waiting to be discovered, with immense tourism potential. However, with the current airfares, especially on MAS, many potential travellers are priced out, severely hampering the state’s tourism growth.

The recent prices to Kuching are, to put it plainly, shocking. Last-minute bookings are unavoidable at times, but I was appalled to be charged nearly RM4,700 for a return business ticket to Kuching. Even my staff, flying economy, paid close to RM3,000 for the same route.

Planning ahead does not seem to help much either; even when booked a month in advance, return tickets are close to RM3,000 for business class and over RM1,300 for economy. This level of pricing is absurd, especially for a domestic route.

I believe, as many do, that with premium prices should come a premium experience. Unfortunately, MAS no longer delivers on this. The business lounge, once a place to relax before flights, has deteriorated.

As I write this on Oct 30, the restrooms in the lounge are still under renovation – a situation I encountered throughout September as well.

The dining experience in the lounge has lost its lustre.

Recently, while attempting to enjoy a simple nasi lemak, I was served boiled eggs still in their shell. When I requested help to remove the shell, the response from the staff was, “we don’t do that”, which was disappointing and telling of how far standards have dropped.

Onboard, the situation does not improve. In business class, we now deal with seats that do not recline properly.

The food, an essential part of any long-haul experience, has worsened. On two recent occasions, the in-flight meals were barely edible, bordering on “off”. In one instance, the lack of quality even made me hesitate to eat.

The lack of comfort in facilities and amenities makes each flight less enjoyable than the last. Even my annual long-haul flights to Mecca on MAS, which I look forward to each year, have not been immune to these setbacks.

Travelling such distances should bring an experience that feels seamless and comfortable, but MAS has started to fall short even here.

Adding to this is the cumbersome process of booking tickets online. With ticket sales exclusively digital, resolving booking issues becomes frustratingly difficult.

Customer service, once a proud element of MAS’s offering, is increasingly subpar, with representatives often unable to assist adequately.

The only saving grace, as many loyal customers like myself would agree, are the cabin crew. Their friendliness and dedication are a testament to the heart and spirit MAS was once known for – they are MAS’s real assets.

If MAS continues along this trajectory, it will lose the loyalty of not only long-standing customers like myself but also the new generation of travellers.

Competing airlines like Emirates and Saudi Airlines are waiting in the wings, ready to welcome disillusioned MAS customers with open arms.

As I reluctantly contemplate flying with them, I realise how close MAS is to losing the competitive edge it once had. My hope is that MAS’s management and its owners take heed of these issues
and recognise the urgent need for improvement.

This is not just about ticket prices or outdated lounges; it is about restoring pride in our national airline and ensuring it represents Malaysia as it once did – with quality, excellence and care.

MAS has a legacy worth fighting
for, but only if the commitment to improvement is genuine. For the sake of all who continue to fly MAS out of loyalty and pride, I urge the airline’s leadership to act swiftly and decisively to bring MAS back to its roots as a serious and reliable airline worthy of our national identity.

Prof (Haji) Said Bani CM Din

Loyal (but concerned)
MAS traveller

WE have all experienced it – engaging in a discussion where new information or an opposing viewpoint makes us feel like doubling down on our beliefs rather than reconsidering them. This phenomenon, known as the backfire effect, occurs when people react
to contradictory information by holding more firmly to their existing beliefs.

The backfire effect can create a barrier to constructive dialogue, fostering defensiveness and preventing us from learning, evolving and understanding each other. With complex social issues on the rise, understanding the backfire effect and learning how to counteract it is essential to creating productive and respectful conversations.

The backfire effect is most common in debates involving personal values or issues closely tied to identity, such as opinions on social, environmental or political matters.

For example, in Malaysia, discussions on humane stray management or environmental policy can often spark passionate debates where each side becomes more rooted in their stance.

Recognising when the backfire effect is influencing a conversation can help us redirect it, moving from argument to dialogue and creating spaces for understanding and potential solutions.

At its core, the backfire effect is rooted in psychological defensiveness. When people’s beliefs are challenged, particularly on issues they are deeply invested in, it can feel like a threat to their sense of self.

Psychologists suggest that this is because we tend to intertwine certain beliefs with our identity, making it difficult to separate disagreement with an idea from a personal attack. This effect is more pronounced when discussing issues tied to social identity, politics or moral values.

Additionally, the fear of admitting error can make us cling to our views. If we have championed a particular idea or belief, admitting that we may have been mistaken can be uncomfortable. The backfire effect is a subconscious way of defending against this discomfort by rejecting new information and doubling down on previous beliefs.

Techniques for engaging in constructive debates

Understanding the backfire effect is the first step towards overcoming it, but real progress requires adopting strategies that can help us and others engage in more open, constructive discussions.

Here are several techniques to help foster productive dialogue,
reduce defensiveness and encourage open-mindedness:

Lead with curiosity, not conviction

Entering a conversation with a desire to understand rather than persuade is essential. Leading with curiosity helps set a collaborative tone, showing others that you are genuinely interested in their perspective.

For example, if someone disagrees with humane stray management practices like trap-neuter-release (TNR), you may start by saying, “I’m interested in your view – what experiences shape your opinion on this?”

This approach can disarm defensiveness and invite the person to share their experiences, making them more likely to reciprocate by considering your perspective.

Share stories, not just statistics

Facts and figures are essential but they often fail to connect emotionally. To counter the backfire effect, try sharing personal stories or experiences instead of relying solely on statistics.

For instance, in conversations about environmental policy, instead of only quoting data about pollution or deforestation, share a personal story about how environmental changes have affected your community or family. Stories humanise issues, making it easier for others to empathise and consider different viewpoints.

Emphasise shared goals and values

Even when opinions differ, finding common ground can help make the conversation more collaborative. For instance, both sides of a debate on environmental policies may share the same goal – a cleaner environment and a better quality of life – but disagree on how to achieve it.

By highlighting these shared values, you shift the conversation from an “us vs them” dynamics to a joint problem-solving approach. Statements like “we both want what is best for future generations; we just have different ideas about how to get there” can help bridge divides and reduce defensiveness.

Introduce new information gradually

Presenting too much information at once can make people feel overwhelmed, triggering a defensive response. Instead, offer new ideas or evidence in small, manageable pieces.

For example, if discussing environmental laws, introduce one or two key points rather than a long list of statistics. Gradual information- sharing allows individuals to process new perspectives without feeling pressured to accept them immediately, which can reduce the likelihood of the backfire effect.

Reframe disagreements as learning opportunities

Changing the way you frame a discussion can help mitigate defensiveness. Rather than seeing a debate as a “battle” to be won, approach it as a chance to learn.

This mindset shift encourages openness and reduces the need for defensiveness. When someone feels that a discussion is about sharing knowledge rather than proving a point, they are more likely to listen and engage constructively.

Know when to step back

Not every debate will lead to agreement, and that is okay. If a discussion becomes heated or begins to feel unproductive, it may be time to disengage respectfully.

Try phrases like, “I appreciate hearing your perspective, and I think we may have to agree to disagree for now. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.”

This approach allows both parties to leave
the conversation without feeling pressured, preserving the relationship for future discussions.

In Malaysia, topics like stray animal management and environmental policies are prime examples of where the backfire effect
often arises.

On one side, many advocate for humane and sustainable stray management practices, such as TNR, which can reduce stray populations over time. Others, however, may believe in stricter measures, fearing that strays could pose health or safety risks.

In such debates, the backfire effect can quickly escalate, with both sides becoming more entrenched as they try to defend their views.

To move forward constructively, a focus on shared goals – like safer communities and reduced stray populations – can shift the conversation from debate to dialogue.

In Malaysia, environmental policies are at a crossroads, often sparking strong opinions due to their impact across different economic levels.

Stricter policies aimed at protecting natural resources are crucial, yet they also raise concerns about their potential economic burden on lower-income communities, who may rely heavily on resource-based jobs.

Balancing the urgent need for environmental protection with the livelihoods of these communities is complex but essential.

A sustainable path forward lies in building
a common ground around shared values – a commitment to a clean, healthy environment alongside economic stability for all. This inclusive approach can help foster productive dialogue and more resilient, equitable policies.

Ultimately, overcoming the backfire effect requires us to approach conversations with empathy, open-mindedness and a willingness to understand where others are coming from.

Constructive debates are less about changing someone’s mind on the spot and more about creating a space where learning and growth are possible.

By leading with curiosity, sharing personal stories and finding common ground, we
can transform difficult conversations into opportunities for connection and progress.

Dr Praveena is a certified
mental health and awareness practitioner specialising in narcissistic abuse recovery.
Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

DONALD Trump’s victory in the 2024 US presidential election has raised global concerns about how his economic policies may impact countries like Malaysia.

With an “America First” approach focused on protecting domestic interests, the Trump administration is expected to reshape international trade, shift investment flows and influence geopolitical relationships.

For Malaysia, this outcome presents not only challenges but also opportunities in key economic sectors, including trade, foreign investment and commodities.

Trump is anticipated to continue protectionist policies that prioritise US jobs and domestic production. His proposal to impose a 10% import tariff on all goods entering the US aims to reduce reliance on foreign products and bolster domestic manufacturing.

Additionally, Trump’s plan to impose tariffs as high as 60% on Chinese products could have significant implications for Malaysia, one of the major exporters of electronic products and components to the US. If high tariffs are applied to Chinese goods, Malaysian products incorporating Chinese components could also be impacted, potentially diminishing US demand for Malaysian exports.

While this situation presents risks, it also provides opportunities as companies diversify supply chains away from China. Malaysia benefitted from the “China+1” strategy during Trump’s first term, as exports to the US increased amid US-China trade tensions.

Malaysia’s semiconductor industry, a focus of large investments from multinational companies such as Intel and Infineon, may continue to attract interest as a stable manufacturing base.

Currently, Malaysia holds around 13% of the global market in chip packaging and testing, making it a favourable location for companies seeking to expand operations outside of China. These conditions indicate Malaysia’s potential to further establish itself as a manufacturing hub if it can maintain political stability and investor-friendly economic policies.

The energy sector is also likely to be affected. Trump’s pro-oil stance could lead to increased US production and exports of fossil fuels. Should global oil prices rise, Malaysia, as an oil exporter, stands to benefit from higher national revenue.

However, rising oil prices also carry inflationary risks, as increased energy costs could drive up production costs and consumer prices domestically. While the energy sector may gain, higher energy costs could pressure consumer purchasing power and escalate operational costs for local industries.

To maximise these potential gains, Malaysia will need to balance these impacts on the consumer sector and ensure monetary policies support price stability.

The Malaysian commodity sector, particularly palm oil, faces potential challenges as well. During Trump’s first term, the US imposed import restrictions on Malaysian palm oil companies such as FGV Holdings and Sime Darby Plantation over allegations of forced labour. These restrictions affected Malaysian palm oil exports to the US, reducing revenue and harming the country’s image as a responsible producer.

Should similar policies persist, Malaysia will need to strengthen sustainable labour practices and meet international standards to retain access to global markets and protect its reputation as an ethical producer.

Trump’s policies could bring added uncertainty to Malaysia’s capital markets and the ringgit’s value. With US interest rates currently at 4.75%-5.00%, any influence Trump may exert on the Federal Reserve to raise rates could lead global investors to favour US assets, potentially causing capital outflows from Malaysia.

In 2023, Malaysia saw a 6.8% decline in foreign equity inflows, and the ringgit depreciated by around 8% against the US dollar. This shift reduces liquidity in local capital markets, and foreign investors may approach Malaysian equities with greater caution, especially if Trump’s policies introduce additional tariffs or trade restrictions.

As demand for the US dollar rises, the ringgit may face continued downward pressure. A weaker ringgit could increase import costs, particularly in vital sectors like food and technology, compounding domestic inflationary pressures, which currently stand at 2.8%.

To address these challenges, Malaysia needs a strong risk management strategy to maintain market stability and support the ringgit amid growing uncertainties.

In addition, Trump’s protectionist stance may directly impact Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Malaysia. As a manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia, Malaysia could see reduced FDI if the US pursues an aggressive stance on countries with significant trade surpluses.

Trump’s emphasis on protecting US jobs and domestic economic interests may lead to decreased investment from US companies in Malaysia.

Concurrently, prolonged US-China trade tensions could make investors more cautious about Malaysia, which may be perceived as politically and economically vulnerable. Any decline in FDI could affect job creation, technology growth and Malaysia’s long-term economic stability.

Furthermore, Trump’s victory raises concerns about the future of the US-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (Ipef). Trump has previously expressed a desire to withdraw from trade agreements like Ipef, which he sees as “another TPP”. If this happens, Malaysia may face challenges in maintaining market access and regional economic integration.

To prepare, Malaysia must diversify its trade partnerships, strengthen local industries and foster growth in resilient sectors. Malaysia’s involvement in Ipef reflects its commitment to regional economic integration, which could help mitigate the negative effects of US protectionist policies.

In summary, Trump’s victory could have significant implications for Malaysia’s economy. Protectionist policies and prolonged trade tensions could disrupt global supply chains, increase market uncertainty and challenge Malaysia’s economic growth.

Malaysia must be prepared with sustainable and adaptable strategies to tackle these challenges while capitalising on emerging opportunities to maintain economic resilience amid an increasingly complex global landscape.

The writer is a researcher and Islamic Finance consultant.
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