Malaysia’s gender parity score has inched upward, but the country still ranks last in Southeast Asia. We explore why progress remains slow compared to regional peers and what that means for equality at home. (Starts at 23:20)

• Rare earth plan license renewal: Lynas has secured a 10-year license to continue operating its rare earths plant in Pahang, but stricter conditions on radioactive waste management have been imposed. We also revisit a conversation we had with Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang on this. We also hear from Tan Bun Teet, chairperson of the NGO, Save Malaysia Stop Lynas. (Starts at 16:49)

• Savings squeeze on the middle class: Nearly half of Malaysia’s middle-income earners are living paycheck to paycheck, with shrinking monthly savings and tough trade-offs on insurance. We unpack the financial pressures behind the slide and what it means for long-term security. (Starts at 12:28)

• Fire razes Orang Asli village: A blaze in Johor left over 140 Seletar tribe members homeless, with relocation plans facing setbacks. We hear from Jasni Amat, Vice Chairperson of the Pertubuhan Orang Asli Prihatin Johor, on the community’s struggles, the trauma of loss, and their urgent appeal for support. (Starts at 6:42)

If you’d like to support them, you can contact Jasni directly at 019-734-3822. You can also head on to Persatuan Orang Asli Prihatin Johor’s Facebook page to find out more.

• Gen-Z males and the 'obedient wife' mindset: A global survey reveals many Gen-Z males still hold traditional views on marriage, masculinity, and women’s independence. This show explores what these attitudes mean for equality and shifting gender dynamics. We get into it. (Starts at 0:23)

Image Credit: Shutterstock

Produced by: Sneha Harikannan, Dashran Yohan, Sudais Ferhard, Tee Shiao Eek, Alia Zefri

Presented by: Dashran Yohan, Sudais Ferhard

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Categories:  politics,  government,  environment,  Law/Activism,  controversies,  Family/Parenting

Tags:  Malaysia gender equality ranking,  Orang Asli village,  indigenous community displacement,  Gen Z masculinity attitudes survey,  gender parity,  lynas rare earth,  rare earth mining,  cost of living,  paychecks,  gen z,