Halal exports reached US$7 billion in the first half of 2025, making up 16,1% of Malaysia’s total exports; Main products include food and beverages, halal ingredients, and palm oil derivatives, with key markets in China, the US, and Indonesia

The Gig Workers Bill 2025 was passed, extending labor protections to about 1,2 million gig economy workers; the law mandates written contracts and basic benefits, like insurance and leave, for drivers, freelancers and platform workers

Following the death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina amid bullying allegations, the Malaysian Media Council is demanding better journalist safety after unaccredited individuals disrupted a press conference, creating safety risks for reporters covering the case

Up to $150 billion over the next five years will be spent for equipment from U.S. multinationals for semiconductor, aerospace and data center industries in an articulated plan that reduces threatened U.S. tariff on Malaysian goods from 25% to 19%

Around mid-July, tens of protesters rallied outside the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur opposing Nick Adams' appointment as U.S. ambassador: his controversial statements on Islam prompted calls for rejection