Economy of Tomorrow

Infographics – Deconstructing Economic Indicators: GDP

Today, GDP plays an important part as an economic indicator in our society, central to policymaking and national planning. But what does GDP really mean, and in what ways is it flawed as a metric of development? Read on for a condensed breakdown of our researcher Jaideep Singh's latest work, "REFSA NOTES #8/2022: Deconstructing Economic Indicators: GDP".

Infographics – Deconstructing Economic Indicators: Inflation

Malaysia's overall inflation rate stood at 3.4% as of June 2022, well below the global G20 average of 13.9%. But on the ground, many Malaysians are feeling the pinch. So why does it feel like there is a mismatch between official inflation rates and the perceived rise in the cost of living? Read on for a condensed version of our researcher Jaideep Singh's breakdown on what inflation means, how it is measured, and what we can do about it. 

Same Job, Different Pay?

Are Malaysians paid fairly for the work they do? That is the question many Malaysians are asking after an article on World of Buzz highlighted the large wage disparity between Malaysia and Singapore. While there are many factors such as cost of living that might have been a factor here, there are other granular reasons that also play a role in enlarging the gap. We speak to Tan E-Hun from REFSA to understand the causes behind this wage disparity.

Karnival Jom Beli Rumah 2022: Can People Afford RM 300k Houses?

Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican recently announced ‘Karnival Jom Beli Rumah 2022’, in which 10 000 affordable homes nationwide will be offered, priced at RM 300k and below. But is this a good initiative? And what should constitute affordable housing in the first place? We’re joined by Iskandar Fareez of the Think Tank, REFSA.

Let Them Eat Chicken (… But Not At Reduced Prices)

Prime Minister Dato Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has said that the reduced chicken subsidy was to enable the money to be chanelled directly as cash aid to Malaysians, since previously the reduced price was benefitting not just Malaysians, but also foreign workers and refugees. First, we discuss whether 'Malaysian-only' policies might end up pushing away foreign workers, and whether Malaysia can survive without them. Next, we get into the kind of aid foreign workers have access to, and what needs to be done here.

With No More Ceiling Prices, Will Costs Hit The Roof?

The government's plan to remove ceiling prices and subsidies for chicken, eggs and bottled palm cooking oil will take effect on the 1st of July. It's a move that has ignited fears around the rising cost of living- we discuss its impact and who will be feeling the brunt of this policy reversal. Then, we dive into what's needed to to create an effective system that better identifies people in need of government assistance.
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