Author: Tomas O’Farrell, Co-Founder, Workana

The COVID-19 pandemic is reshaping how companies are operating, as remote working is put to the test. In the midst of the pandemic, businesses are identifying economic opportunities and challenges that require an agile and rapid response. The challenges are anticipated to linger, according to a forecast from Malaysia's AmBank stating that a coronavirus-induced recession will impact the tourism, manufacturing, construction, mining, and agricultural sectors.

KUALA LUMPUR, 15 June 2020 – The COVID-19 pandemic has created massive uncertainty in the investment market, and this is not an isolated case. All over the world, foreign investors are navigating uncharted waters as stock markets are becoming increasingly difficult to predict in the current economic climate.

Malaysia’s FBM KLCI closed at 1,490.14 in end May, its highest level since March this year, although this may not necessarily signify the end of the ongoing crisis. The record high number of traded shares indicated active participation rate from retail investors in Malaysia, partly attributed to the country being home to the world’s largest glove makers of which demand for protective equipment has surged during the pandemic. Nevertheless, investors should ensure that they continue to diversify their investment portfolio especially during these times.

By to Pang Yee Beng, Senior Vice President, South Asia and Managing Director, Malaysia, Dell Technologies

The world we live in is constantly changing – but no matter how different things become, one thing is for sure: it is beginning to feel a little crowded. 

Malaysia’s population is projected to grow by more than 3.5 million in the next 10 years to reach 36.4 million by 2030 – joining the global population that is set to grow to 8.5 billion by the same time. Three billion more people would join the ranks of the global middle class and with their additional purchasing power, increase the demand for products and services. And all of this will put enormous pressure on the earth’s natural systems.