World

Malaysia's total trade reached RM236.0 billion in December 2022, marking an 8.6% increase year-on-year. Exports rose 6.0% to RM131.9 billion, while imports grew 12.0% to RM104.1 billion. The Department of Statistics Malaysia reported a new trade milestone for 2022, totaling RM2.8 trillion.

The International Atomic Energy Agency has dispatched expert teams to each of Ukraine's nuclear power plants, including Zaporizhzhia and Chernobyl, to minimize safety risks during the ongoing war with Russia.

Rapid Synergy Bhd's chairman, Yu Kuan Chon, deceived shareholders with fraudulent misrepresentation in the 2021 Annual Report. The company hid related parties to avoid a mandatory takeover offer.

Indonesia's ASEAN presidency in 2023 aims to boost regional economic recovery by enhancing connectivity, competitiveness, and addressing digital divides. Minister Airlangga Hartarto emphasizes strengthening financial services and food security to support sustainable growth.

Cathay Pacific Airways reported a substantial loss of up to US$893.77 million for the fiscal year 2022, slightly higher than analyst predictions. The airline's financial performance reflects the ongoing challenges from pandemic-related travel restrictions in Hong Kong and mainland China, though the company remains optimistic about future recovery prospects.

CIA Director William Burns visited Kyiv last week, meeting with President Zelenskyy to discuss continued U.S. support for Ukraine. Burns stressed Washington's commitment and shared intelligence insights about the ongoing war with Russia.

NATO will send three surveillance aircraft to Romania next week to conduct reconnaissance flights and monitor Russian military movements. The AWACS aircraft, capable of detecting aircraft hundreds of kilometers away, will be stationed near Bucharest to support NATO's defensive posture.

The European Union is considering major industrial subsidies to counter US green technology investments, but smaller countries like Sweden warn that larger nations like Germany and France might disproportionately benefit, potentially threatening the EU's single market unity.

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization reported that global food prices reached unprecedented levels in 2022, averaging 14% higher than 2021. Factors including the Ukraine conflict, drought, and economic challenges contributed to significant price increases, with vegetable oil prices experiencing notable declines by year's end.

The United States is providing $3.75 billion in military aid to Ukraine, featuring Bradley armored vehicles for the first time. The package includes $2.85 billion in direct Pentagon support and additional funding to strengthen Ukraine's military capabilities amid ongoing conflict with Russia.