ASLI INSIGHTS: Asia Unpacked | 24 January 2026
From the United States’ diplomatic actions, the Ringgit’s surge against the Dollar, Apple’s ambitious plan, regulation involving ASEAN & China and a new education plan, this week highlights politics, technology and education.
Top news in Asia this week:
1. US Announces Board of Peace, Exits WHO.
President Trump’s new "Board of Peace" held its inaugural signing in Davos, drawing support from approximately 20 nations, primarily from the Middle East and Central Asia. While leaders like Benjamin Netanyahu and Alexander Lukashenko have joined, major Western allies declined, citing concerns over the board’s $1 billion permanent seat fee and its potential to supersede the United Nations. Simultaneously, the U.S. officially withdrew from the World Health Organization on January 22, 2026. Health experts warn this "slow bleed" of influence will hinder infectious disease tracking and early outbreak detection, leaving a geopolitical void that rivals like China and Russia are expected to fill.
Read more:
https://edition.cnn.com/2026/01/22/world/trump-board-of-peace-explainer-intl-hnk
https://time.com/7357180/us-withdrawal-who-world-health-organization/
2. Ringgit strengthens to highest rate against US Dollar
The Malaysian ringgit hit a five-year high, breaching the RM4.00 per US dollar threshold following Bank Negara Malaysia’s decision to maintain the Overnight Policy Rate at 2.75%. This appreciation is fueled by a softening US dollar and strong domestic indicators, including a projected 5.7% GDP growth for the fourth quarter of 2025. Analysts attribute the currency's resilience to policy stability and easing global trade tensions after the U.S. softened its stance on EU tariffs. While annual growth eased slightly to 4.9%, robust bond demand continues to support the ringgit’s upward trend.
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3. Apple to revamp Siri as an AI chatbot
Apple plans to transform Siri into a generative AI chatbot, code-named "Campos," to compete with OpenAI and Google. Expected to debut at June's WWDC, the revamped assistant will be deeply integrated into iOS 27, enabling complex tasks like on-screen content analysis and cross-app commands. While Apple previously favored subtle AI tools over standalone chats, this strategic shift utilizes Google’s Gemini technology to address competitive pressures. To maintain its brand identity, Apple is reportedly considering strict privacy limits on the chatbot’s memory while focusing on high-performance, voice-driven user experiences.
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4. ASEAN-China Code of Conduct enters final stage
ASEAN and China are in the final stages of finalizing a Code of Conduct (COC) for the South China Sea, with completion expected this year. Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan emphasized an ASEAN-led mechanism to ensure regional stability through collective diplomacy rather than individual state actions. While addressing criticisms of ASEAN's efficacy, he highlighted Malaysia's successful role as a facilitator in the Thailand-Cambodia border issue. Regarding Myanmar, Malaysia and ASEAN have refused to recognize recent elections, citing the exclusion of key parties and a lack of inclusive participation.
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5. Prime Minister launches National Education Plan
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim launched the National Education Development Plan (2026–2035), introducing a lower preschool entry age of five and transitioning Year One to age six. Key reforms include the return of centrally managed assessments for Year Four and Form Three, and mandatory Bahasa Melayu and History for all private and international school students. The blueprint also expands TVET into primary education, shifts Form Six under the Higher Education Ministry, and provides free tertiary education for students with disabilities and low-income families. Implementation will be monitored via monthly progress reports to ensure these holistic goals are met.
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