The killing of a U.S. citizen during an ICE enforcement operation has reignited tensions between federal immigration authorities and Democrat-led states, raising deeper questions about gun violence, state power, and the future of American democracy. Political analyst Steve Okun weighs in on the fault lines shaping US politics today. (Starts at 22:53)

• Malaysia's progress on children's rights: Malaysia returns to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child after nearly two decades, facing tough questions over child protection failures, abuse cases, and systemic gaps. Children’s Commissioner Dr Farah Nini Dusuki reflects on where reforms stand — and where they fall short. (Starts at 17:14)

• A stronger Ringgit: As the ringgit reaches its strongest level since 2018, we unpack what this means for everyday Malaysians — from cheaper imports and travel to pressures on tourism and cross-border workers. Are better times ahead, or do the gains come with trade-offs? (Starts at 12:26)

• Coral reefs near a tipping point: A new report shows Malaysia has lost about 20% of its coral cover since 2022, including damage inside marine protected areas. Reef Check Malaysia CEO Julian Hyde explains what’s driving the decline and what must change to prevent irreversible loss. (Starts at 5:26)

• Year of the (sad) Horse: A manufacturing error turned a smiling plush horse into a viral Lunar New Year sensation, resonating with young Chinese workers and reflecting broader social anxieties. We explore how a sad toy became a cultural mirror — and what feng shui says about the Year of the Fire Horse. (Starts at 0:22)

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Produced by: Sneha Harikannan, Tee Shiao Eek, Alia Zefri, Juliet Jacobs, Sudais Ferhard

Presented by: Lee Chwi Lynn, Sharaad Kuttan

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Categories:  Law/Activism,  corruption,  politics,  government,  international,  controversies,  economy,  markets,  environment,  culture

Tags:  U.S. immigration enforcement shooting,  ICE federal agents controversy,  Minneapolis deadly immigration raid,  Malaysia children’s rights UN review,  Malaysia coral reef decline,  Reef Check Malaysia report,  Youth vaping health risks,  Malaysia financial scam losses,  World Economic Forum Trump speech,  malaysia ringgit,