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Showing posts from April, 2025

Navigating Malaysia’s Strategy to Counter the U.S. Reciprocal Tariff

The implementation of a 24% tariff by the United States on products from Malaysia has created a considerable economic obstacle for the latter. This tariff is part of the wider protectionist strategies associated with the Trump administration's "America First" agenda, which seeks to safeguard American industries and labour. For Malaysia, this unilateral action presents significant risks to its trade relationships, economic stability, and prospects for future development. Diplomatic Negotiation and Engagement with the U.S. In the immediate future, Malaysia should focus on diplomatic discussions with the United States to achieve a resolution or reduction of tariffs. The government can interact with U.S. officials through various channels, including bilateral talks and international trade agreements like the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). These negotiations should underscore the shared economic advantages of equitable trade and align with the principles of the W...

Cognitive warfare: Addressing racial and religious issues in Malaysia

Cognitive warfare is a developing concept that aims to manipulate and disrupt human thought processes to secure an advantage over opponents. It employs psychological operations, information distortion, and behavioral conditioning to influence public perception and decision-making. In the context of Malaysia, a society characterized by its multicultural and multi-religious composition, cognitive warfare offers a potential avenue for law enforcement agencies to tackle issues related to racial and religious discord. By effectively implementing cognitive warfare strategies, these agencies can reduce conflicts, combat misinformation, and promote national cohesion. Understanding Cognitive Warfare Cognitive warfare functions by leveraging cognitive biases, swaying emotions, and molding thought processes. It includes tactics such as misinformation, psychological operations, propaganda, and behavioral psychology to influence both individual and group cognition. The growing dependence on digital...

The Importance of SQUAD for Malaysia: Safeguarding Sovereignty in the South China Sea

Introduction The South China Sea (SCS) is recognized as one of the most strategically significant and disputed areas globally. For Malaysia, the implications are considerable due to conflicting territorial claims, especially regarding its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and the Spratly Islands. In recent years, China's aggressive expansion in the SCS has heightened regional tensions, threatening Malaysia's territorial integrity and sovereignty. As the Philippines advocates for a wider coalition to challenge China's maritime supremacy, the informal "Squad" alliance, which includes Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States, offers a potential avenue for Malaysia to protect its interests. Why the Squad Offers a Counterbalanced Platform for Malaysia The establishment of the Squad in 2024 signifies a strategic pivot towards enhanced regional security collaboration in light of China's expanding maritime dominance. Unlike formal military al...