Covid-19 containment strategy needs a change
Instead of having stricter restrictions to deal with the rising case numbers, our Economic Advisor, Frederik Paulus explains how government funds should be spent to tackle the pandemic.
Michael Aw
Malaysia’s Economic Recovery Remains Elusive without Clear Plans to Address Downside Risks
Adding to the chorus of caution surrounding BNM's optimistic GDP growth projections is the ADB's recent growth estimate of 6% for Malaysia in 2021 at the lower bound of BNM's range. Indeed, given the low vaccination rates and rising case numbers suggestive of a fourth wave, recovery remains elusive without clear plans to address downside risks. With this in mind, our Economics Team will be introducing 10 strategies to rebuild Malaysia better and address the downside risks to growth.
Mampukah Parlimen berperanan semula?
Tiba masa kerajaan kembali ke Parlimen dan membina semula institusi ini agar ia benar-benar berkesan untuk mengubah kehidupan rakyat ke arah yang lebih baik berbanding menekan parlimen sehingga ia boleh menjejaskan prinsip asas demokrasi negara dalam tempoh jangka masa yang panjang.
Introduction to the 10 Strategies to Save Jobs and Revive the Economy
How can the nation tackle the immediate challenges we face right here, right now? Here, we introduce 10 strategies on how to save jobs and revive the economy. Stay tuned as we release the policies in the coming weeks.
Think tank questions Bank Negara’s over-optimistic growth forecast
A recent Bank Negara report forecasts GDP growth of 6-7.5% for 2021. In response, the REFSA research team has raised questions about the assumptions underlying the estimate. This is because the downside economic risks are stronger than acknowledged, and actual GDP may be lower than forecast.
Why are so many Malaysian Fresh Grads Unemployed & Underpaid?
In this recent podcast with BFM, our Communications Director Iskandar Fareez shares his views on how the state can play a leading role in addressing the issue of unemployment and low salaries faced by Malaysian youths.
REFSA Notes #2/2021: 10 Questions for Bank Negara on the 2021 GDP Growth Forecast
Are we on the way to achieving a GDP growth rate of between 6.0% and 7.5% in 2021? Backed by recent data points which signal that more downside risks are materialising, this REFSA Note asks some pertinent questions on some of the assumptions underlying BNM's 2021 growth rate forecast.
Is Southeast Asia waking up to the need for unity in South China Sea?
Our Research Director Ivy Kwek quoted on whether there’s unity among Southeast Asia countries on the South China Sea dispute.
What digital economy do we want?
By revisiting and aligning adjacent policies like competition, data privacy and social protection, we can develop a dynamic and innovative economy that uses digital technologies to the fullest, for the greater good of everyone.
REFSA Notes #1/2021:PEMERKASA: More of the Same?
Does the Pemerkasa package mitigate short term socio-economic effects of the pandemic while contribute to guiding long term economic growth of the nation?