
Why Malaysia’s political turmoil matters to Beijing
Malaysia's political instability and rising racial and religious polarization present strategic complications for China's regional ambitions and diplomatic initiatives in Southeast Asia.

Malaysia's political instability and rising racial and religious polarization present strategic complications for China's regional ambitions and diplomatic initiatives in Southeast Asia.

Konstantin Kosachev, Deputy Speaker of Russia’s Federation Council, stated that a united Europe has relinquished its leadership role in shaping global values. He attributes this decline to the post-Soviet era, arguing that Europe prioritized detaching former Soviet republics from Russia's sphere of influence over upholding its own values.
UK ministers face accusations of prioritizing rhetoric over tangible action regarding women and girls in conflict zones. MPs warn that aid cuts are jeopardizing Britain's global leadership on gender equality and the Women, Peace and Security agenda.

BYD saw a 232% surge in vehicle registrations in Germany in May, with one in seven plug-in hybrids sold coming from the Chinese automaker. The company aims to become the world's largest carmaker by volume within five years.

The Korea Startup Forum (KOSPO) hosted AXIS 2026, emphasizing the shift of AI leadership from institutions to startups. Speakers urged the government to become the first customer for AI startups, fostering national competitiveness and global leadership.

Hong Kong Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po recently said the city could rise to become the world’s No 2 financial centre in 10-15 years. That is the right kind of ambition. In a world being reshaped by geopolitical fragmentation, China’s growing global weight and rapid technological change, Hong Kong must think beyond remaining internationally competitive to exercising global leadership. But ambition alone is not enough. Hong Kong has spent decades proving it can operate at the world’s...