KUALA LUMPUR: In the latest episode of Beyond the Headlines, a range of critical topics emerged.

Economist Professor Dr Geoffrey Williams joined as guest expert to shed light on the strategies and challenges faced by multinational corporations, pension schemes, and federal agencies in Malaysia.

The episode features some key insights on the shift towards automation, which has influenced many businesses, including multinational corporations like Goodyear to go through huge cost-cutting measues. Goodyear's plant in Shah Alam is closing after 52 years of operations.

We are exploring how the country can navigate its way in addressing the competition from emerging economies like Vietnam and Indonesia.

Malaysia can attract and retain high-value manufacturing activities by investing in infrastructure, skilled labour and fostering a business-friendly environment.

Williams explained how labour-intensive industries in Malaysia can use this opportunity to propel themselves ahead of companies in other nations in the region.

We also look at the latest Auditor-General's report that underscored the importance of financial management and accountability within federal agencies.

Professor and Provost for Research and Innovation at Malaysia University of Science and Technology, Geoffrey Williams during Beyond The Headlines Recording EP27 at Studio Multimedia Balai Berita Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur. NSTP/RAIHANA MANSOR
Professor and Provost for Research and Innovation at Malaysia University of Science and Technology, Geoffrey Williams during Beyond The Headlines Recording EP27 at Studio Multimedia Balai Berita Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur. NSTP/RAIHANA MANSOR

Timeliness in submitting financial statements and ensuring grants are used appropriately are crucial for transparency and responsibility.

Separately, the widely-debated civil servants pension scheme was also discussed.

As Malaysia navigates economic shifts and regulatory changes, insights from the discussion provide valuable guidance for policymakers, corporations and government agencies alike.

Follow the full discussion in the latest episode. Watch Beyond the Headline's latest episide on NST Online's YouTube channel.

Professor and Provost for Research and Innovation at Malaysia University of Science and Technology, Geoffrey Williams (right seated) and News Editor, Hazween Hassan (middle) and Amalina Kamal (left seated) during Beyond The Headlines Recording EP27 at Studio Multimedia Balai Berita Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur. NSTP/RAIHANA MANSOR
Professor and Provost for Research and Innovation at Malaysia University of Science and Technology, Geoffrey Williams (right seated) and News Editor, Hazween Hassan (middle) and Amalina Kamal (left seated) during Beyond The Headlines Recording EP27 at Studio Multimedia Balai Berita Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur. NSTP/RAIHANA MANSOR