Malaysia PM Anwar to helm finance ministry

2 Oct 19:37 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will also serve as finance minister, a role he previously held 30 years ago, aiming to address Malaysia's slowing economy.
He appointed Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (who faces graft charges) and Fadillah Yusof as co-deputy prime ministers, reflecting the need to secure coalition stability for his administration.
The new unity government cabinet prioritizes good governance, stimulating economic growth, and alleviating the burden of living costs for the populace.
Critics have cautioned against the premier holding the finance portfolio to ensure proper checks and balances, referencing past multi-billion dollar graft scandals like 1MDB.

ASEAN envoy to visit Myanmar starting Wednesday

Today 08:32 Key points summarised by AI

**Humanitarian Mission:** An ASEAN special envoy, led by Philippine Foreign Secretary Maria Teresa Lazaro, will visit Myanmar to expand humanitarian access and engage with local and national officials.
**Aid Focus:** The delegation, including experts from the AHA Centre, will assess humanitarian needs in conflict-hit regions like Shan State, aiming to streamline aid delivery.
**No Suu Kyi Engagement:** Despite recent positive developments for Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, the envoy's visit will not include a meeting with her, as no such arrangement was made.
**Unfulfilled Consensus:** While Myanmar establishes an ASEAN Affairs Coordinating Committee and its own roadmap, ASEAN reiterates that the bloc's Five-Point Consensus remains unfulfilled, leading to continued exclusion of Myanmar's political appointees from high-level meetings.