Former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli proposes that students finish secondary school by 16 to enter the workforce earlier. We asked education activist, Tajuddin Mohamad Rasdi, whether this shift could better prepare Malaysia for an ageing population.

Other stories we covered:

• Sabah teachers slam travel policy: Sabah teachers say a new 25-km travel allowance cap—measured in a straight line—ignores local terrain and punishes rural educators. We reached out to Auzellea Kristin Mozihim, Coordinator of HIVE Educators, on how this affects morale and access to education.
• Malaysia’s trade strategy after tariff deal: With new US tariffs in place, Trade Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Deputy Minister Liew Chin Tong have both outlined steps to help exporters and strengthen supply chains. We hear thoughts from Carmelo Ferlito, CEO of the Centre for Market Research, who spoke about the tariff negotiations on the Morning Brief. (https://www.bfm.my/content/podcast/malaysia-us-tariffs-and-trade-offs)
• Over 500 bird species at risk of extinction: A global study warns over 500 bird species could go extinct within a century due to habitat loss and climate change. We spoke to Dato’ Dr Amar Singh HSS, Editor of the Malaysian Bird Report, on how this crisis could impact local ecosystems.
• The rise of the performative male: He’s well-dressed, self-aware, and emotionally articulate—or so it seems. We unpack Elle Magazine’s profile of the new “curated” man, and why some say he’s just toxic masculinity in a softer package.

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