Today I Learned Podcast: Recent Episodes
Today I Learned
The world is in debt, but who are we in debt to? Pro-wrestling is fake, so why do we love it? These are the kinds of discussions we have on Today I Learned -- a weekly show exploring a plethora of topics, to satisfy your curious mind!
We all keep things - gifts from loved ones, childhood memories, clothes we hope to wear again someday, items we think might come in handy one day. Holding onto things is a very human behaviour, but for some people, letting go becomes incredibly difficult, affecting their daily lives, homes, and relationships. So where is the line between sentimentality, collecting, clutter, and hoarding disorder? In this episode, we explore why we become attached to our belongings, how hoarding develops, and how we can support someone who may be struggling with it. Helping us answer these questions is Evelyn Soong, a clinical psychologist.
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Most people think they're too smart to fall for a scam, but the data says otherwise. In this episode, we break down how credit card fraud actually happens in Malaysia, who's really at risk, and exactly what to do if it happens to you. We get into it with guest Winnie Chan, Ombudsman (Capital Markets and Banking, Islamic Banking and Payment Systems) at the Financial Markets Ombudsman Service.
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Looking back at the many human-wildlife conflicts that have ended in catastrophe, one thing that's common in the aftermath is the renewed calls for additional protections and improved wildlife crossing structures. We look at how Malaysia’s wildlife crossings shape up to international standards and unpack why they’re important with Lim Teck Wyn, Adjunct Lecturer of Environmental Sciences at University of Nottingham Malaysia.
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Chess is having a moment, from packed local meetups to online creators bringing the game to new audiences. In Kuala Lumpur, FriendsWhoChess has grown into one of the city's biggest chess communities, welcoming everyone from complete beginners to seasoned competitors. We speak to the club's founders about why chess continues to captivate people, how newcomers can get started without feeling intimidated, what separates casual players from grandmasters, and whether AI is changing how we play and learn the game.
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If you've been following the 2026 World Cup, you've obviously seen the football, but you've also probably seen a lot of Donald Trump. The US President made himself part of the tournament after FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded him the organisation's first-ever "Peace Prize" in December. Fast forward to the Folarin Balogun decision, where one phone call from Trump was enough to reverse a red card on a US player. Fans, coaches, and lawmakers called it a clear breach of FIFA's political neutrality. To many people, the way politics is impacting the game might seem new, but has it ever really been any different? We discuss this with James Dorsey, adjunct senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies and one of the most-cited voices on sport and politics.
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We often talk about how increasing urbanisation means that children today no longer have childhoods where they can run freely, climb trees and play in the rain. In our bustling, densely populated urban centres, can children still thrive, live a quality life and participate in the city’s progress? To find out more about what makes a city child-friendly, we’re speaking to Janisha Keerthi Saravanan, Former Secretary of the Petaling Jaya Child Council and Tiara Shahrani Shahrom, Creative & Program Director of Cotton Space.
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Microplastics, air pollution, contaminated water, pesticides—we’re exposed to environmental toxins every day, often without realising it. But how much are these exposures actually affecting our health? Are they getting worse, and what could that mean for future generations? We explore what the science says about pollutants in our food, water, and air; whether the body can recover from these exposures; the myths surrounding "detoxing"; and how well Malaysia is monitoring and regulating the environmental risks around us.
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Amidst a revolving door of fitness and lifestyle trends, yoga continues to resonate with millions of people around the world. But how has it evolved from its ancient beginnings, and how does it benefit us in the modern world?
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Flourishing isn't a word we often use in everyday life, but perhaps we should. In a world that constantly tells us to chase happiness, success, productivity, or self-improvement, many of us still find ourselves feeling exhausted, disconnected, or unfulfilled. So on this episode of Today I Learned, we explore whether flourishing might offer us a different way of thinking about what it means to live well. Joining us is Dr Eugene Tee, Professor of Psychology at HELP University and author of the book "The Science of Flourishing: What Psychological Research Tells Us About Living Well." Together we explore the difference between happiness and flourishing, why constantly chasing happiness can sometimes leave us feeling emptier, and how flourishing may involve embracing the full complexity of life, including struggle and uncertainty.
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It’s World Ocean Day today, so what better opportunity to dive into the wonders of the marine world? As we all have heard before, the ocean makes up 70% of the Earth’s surface and plays a key role in regulating the planet’s climate. So in a world where climate change is wreaking havoc on the marine environment, what can we do to protect it? We speak to Shannon McIntyre Rake, Hope Spots Programme Manager with Mission Blue, about the network of 170 Hope Spots (and counting!) that they’re building and how we can all do our part.
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Thanks to recent earthquakes like the 7.1 magnitude that struck Kota Belud, Sabah in February 2026 and the 4.1 magnitude that hit Segamat, Johor in August 2025, Malaysians are starting to realise that our country is not free of seismic risks. But just how high is the risk of the next earthquake, and how alarmed do we need to be? We find out from Prof Emeritus Dato' Dr Ibrahim Komoo, an engineering geologist and Head of Sustainability and Planetary Health Cluster from Akademi Profesor Malaysia.
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What comes to mind when you picture a bee? You’re probably thinking of a fuzzy, winged insect with black and yellow stripes. But bumblebees only make up a small fraction of known bee species. In fact, recent estimates show that there could be over 26,000 species of bees, of which thousands remain undiscovered. So in this episode, ahead of World Bee Day, we’ll be finding out why bees matter and squeezing in all we can learn about bees into this hour with evolutionary biologist and professional photographer Dr James Dorey.
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Tekat embroidery has been part of Malay cultural heritage for centuries, traditionally associated with royal courts, ceremonial textiles, and generations of artisans who have carefully passed the craft down through matrilineal knowledge and practice. But how does a traditional art form like this continue to evolve and remain relevant today? We speak to artists Xeem Noor and Yante Ismail, who are part of the exhibition Inspired by TEKAT. As contemporary practitioners learning directly from traditional tekat artisans, they’ll be sharing what they’ve discovered about the history of the craft, the process of learning from master artisans, and the possibilities of reimagining tekat for a new generation.
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Over the past couple of months, the Strait of Hormuz has been in the news every single day because of escalating tensions in the region due to the US and Israel’s illegal military attack on Iran. In response, Iran chose to close the Strait of Hormuz, which has disrupted global oil shipments passing through the waterway, which in turn has caused a global energy crisis. But what’s unique about the Strait of Hormuz that its closure impacts us all the way here in Malaysia too? We speak to Brice Lee, Geopolitical analyst and a research fellow at University Malaya.
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As global markets swing between uncertainty and recovery, the word “recession” is once again creeping into everyday conversation. But what does it really mean, beyond technical jargon? And how does it affect everyday Malaysians? We unpack this with economist Dr Nungsari A. Radhi.
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Most Malaysians are one bad flood, one long blackout, or one supply disruption away from realising that they're completely unprepared. And if the Klang Valley floods and pandemic-era emergencies have taught us anything, it's that these things happen, and they happen fast. Tonight, we unpack what you need to know to prepare for any emergency that comes your way with Nik Muhammad Hafiz, the founder of Urban Preppers Malaysia.
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For some, philosophy conjures images of ancient bearded Greeks, dense books and strings of big words that just don’t make sense. They might even think that philosophy is an elite discipline that never escapes the walls of academia. But for others, philosophy can be something far more ordinary and accessible to the average person – something that quietly shapes the way we think, the choices we make, and ultimately how we live our lives. We speak to the co-founders of an organisation that believes in just that, Dr Tee Chen Giap and Chew Zhun Yee of the Malaysian Philosophy Society.
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In recent years, European governments have uncovered plots involving so‑called “disposable agents” who are operatives sent on one‑off missions and then discarded. They’re expendable, deniable, and replaceable. How are they recruited? What missions do they undertake? And what larger strategy is Moscow pursuing? We break it down.
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Actor Timothée Chalamet’s recent remarks dismissing ballet and opera have reignited debate on the relevance of classical art forms in modern society. Does ballet still resonate and connect with today’s audiences? Has it endured as a dance form and method of storytelling? We explore.
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Most Malaysians will recognise the 90-year-old Adibah Amin as the author of the twice-weekly New Straits Times column in the 1970s and 1980s, “As I Was Passing” (originally published under a pen name, Sri Delima). Recipient of the 1991 Southeast Asian Writers Award, she is also a celebrated novelist, educator, translator, and, whose warmth, wit and humanity shaped generations of readers across racial and linguistic lines. We’re diving into the question of why Adibah Amin is considered one of the most important and unforgettable voices of Malaysia’s literary and media landscape, together with Aishah Ali, Former Journalist and Editor (Women, Features and Sunday Mail), New Straits Times.
A special tribute ceremony to celebrate the veteran journalist and writer will be held at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur on 12 April 2026. The event will also mark the launch of As I Was Passing: Legacy Edition and serve as a fundraiser to help cover the costs of her care and medical treatment. Those who wish to attend can contact adibahamin.tribute@gmail.com for more information.
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Women-only spaces have a long and complex history. From grassroots support groups and domestic violence shelters to professional networks, gyms, book clubs, and online communities. In conjunction with International Women’s Day, we sit down with Zara Riza, owner of the first gentlewomen’s club in KL. We also learn about the importance of women’s safe spaces with the folks at Women’s March Malaysia.
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Wang Kelian, located in the north western corner of Perlis and bordering Thailand, is a valley where limestone hills, rare plants, wildlife and stories are waiting to be told. In 2024, a team of conservationists and storytellers embarked on a journey to document its hidden beauty through a project. One of those individuals, Peter Ong, joins us to talk about the project and why Wang Kelian should be on our list of travel destinations.
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Early this year, the US Department of Justice released 3.5 million files related to financier, human trafficker and sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein, drawing more of us into the Wild West of conspiracy theories. The files confirm what we already know about his crimes, and much of it references high‑profile figures, but often without context or evidence. Raw, redacted, and sprawling, the files are enough to spark rumours, questions, and deeper confusion – which is exactly what we’ll be diving into with our guest, who had to reckon with the fact that he himself is mentioned 25 times in the files.
*Note: Toward the end of the podcast, Sharaad refers to Koo Stark as Prince William’s ex. This is incorrect — Koo Stark is Prince Andrew’s former partner.
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Cyberwarfare is in the spotlight after the US attack on Venezuela. We explore this with Benjamin Ang, comparing it to earlier cases like Stuxnet, and examining what cyber conflict means for both superpowers and small states.
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Money doesn’t grow on trees, and we’re taught from a young age that we must always be prudent about how we spend our money. But how many of us are taught how to do that and do it well? Capping off the month where Today I Learned has been focusing on different areas of personal improvement, we speak to Nirmala Supramaniam, Head of Household Financial Education Department at Agensi Kaunseling dan Pengurusan Kredit (AKPK) on how we can be better at money.
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They say the best way to smoke your last cigarette is to not have one at all, but we know it is easier said than done. In this first month of 2026, Today I Learned will be focusing on different areas of personal improvement. In this episode, we explore one of the most common health goals people have when they kick off the new yeat: Quitting smoking.
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In the first month of 2026, Today I Learned will be focusing on different areas of personal improvement. For this episode, the question is: how can I sleep better? We sit down with sleep psychologist Julian Lim to understand how sleep really works - from its biological necessity to its changing value in society.
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In the first month of 2026, Today I Learned will be focusing on different areas of personal improvement. For this episode, the question is: how do I make friends? We’ve heard about the Friendship Recession - and while most research is based on the US and European countries, there’s anecdotal evidence that the feeling of being disconnected and having fewer close friends is becoming a common experience for more people. We speak to Daren Despois, Counseling Psychologist & Certified ICF Coach about the art and skill of cultivating friendships.
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As we near the end of the year, it’s a busy time for family get-togethers, especially as children are on school break and adults are taking time off work. Whether you’re having dinner together with the extended family or going on a break with your partner (with or without children), it’s almost inevitable for some of us that there will be some minor disagreements. So how do we avoid them or at least prevent them from blowing up into major arguments? Here to guide us through that is licensed and registered counsellor Esther Chu.
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We explore how Western Christianity and colonialism have shaped the political and religious landscape of Palestine, and how Palestinians have responded through traditions of ecumenism, solidarity, and resistance. Paul Catafago joins us to talk about the spirit of religious tolerance in Palestinian society, the historic roles of Christian intellectuals and leaders alongside their Muslim counterparts, the abandonment of Palestinian Christians by Western churches through Christian Zionism, and how these dynamics have deepened cooperation across faiths in the struggle for sovereignty.
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Partly inspired by Pluribus and its philosophical questions, but mostly by the shared experience of living in Malaysia, tonight’s episode attempts to understand whether humans are - at our psychological base - more inclined towards an individualistic way of life, or in the compromise required to live collectively. Is there something inherently ‘Western’ or ‘Asian’ in this way of thinking? Can we change? Eugene Tee joins us to try to unpack it all.
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Famously known for his “peculiar” way of cooking, chemist and one of the co-founders of molecular gastronomy, Hervé This, joins us to give us a peek into this world and why he thinks this is the future of food. From gels and emulsions to using pure chemical compounds to make food, is this food for everyone? How has he - and can we all - reimagine food through chemistry?
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We’re often stumped by why children act and behave the way they do. Why do they ask so many questions? Why do they throw tantrums? And why are they so hooked on screens? In conjunction with World Children’s Day on 20 November, we speak to a play therapist, Chris Ng, to explore what it is like to see the world through a child’s eyes and how these traits help children, be children. We also invited 10-year-old Elysha Le to turn the tables and teach us - adults - about how kids think.
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Whether it’s a wedding, a night out, or just your kitchen floor, dancing has a way of pulling us out of our heads and into our bodies. But why do some still hold themselves back? We get into the benefits of learning dance with professional Latin Dance trainers Aisha and Sam Sopiee.
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We take a close look at the role of journalism and media in shaping public understanding today, from the pressures of a 24-hour news cycle to the choices editors and reporters make in deciding what counts as news. We also discuss Somnath Batabyal’s book Making News in India, which examines the inner workings of one of the country’s largest news corporations, offering insights into how stories are produced, framed, and circulated in a rapidly changing media landscape.
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The 47th ASEAN Summit kicked off recently in Kuala Lumpur drawing heads of state and government into three days of high-stakes diplomacy. While the summit happens behind closed doors, its outcome ripples far beyond the meeting rooms. In this episode, we unpack the real purpose of the ASEAN Summit, its history, relevance and why it should matter to all of us.
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What is digital sovereignty, and why are so many countries fighting to reclaim it?
We dive into that question with Dr Rachel Gong, Deputy Director of Research, Khazanah Research Institute. We’ll be looking at how Malaysia and other nations are exploring digital sovereignty, and how these efforts to protect data and critical technologies within national borders could affect the way we use the Internet.
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What really happens to the human body when we leave Earth’s atmosphere? From the way our blood carries oxygen to how our brains adapt in microgravity, space pushes human physiology to its limits. We speak to Professor Damian Bailey, an expert in extreme physiology, about what science tells us so far and what it might mean for the future of space travel.
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Why should the health of the planet matter to all of us, and what can we do about it? What can the government do against the enormous and complex environmental issues facing us today? To answer this question, we have Professor Emerita Datuk Dr Asma Ismail, Chair of the National Planetary Health Action Plan.
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Just over two months ago, we saw the death of Zara Qarina Mahathir rock the nation and bring the topic of bullying back into our daily conversations. From school corridors to online platforms, bullying in Malaysia is a deeply rooted problem. While it's often dismissed as 'just part of growing up', the reality is far more serious with long-term effects on mental health, education, and even lives lost. We sit down with SUHAKAM Chief Children’s Commissioner Dr Farah Nini Dusuki to discuss how we address this pressing issue.
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For some, the Cold War between the USA and USSR was about military strategies of containment, proxy wars in the Third World and covert activities, but it did also come with a large dose of cultural and ideological rivalry, some of which endures to this day. Together with Giles Scott-Smith, we discuss the other side of the Cold War, which found its way into the arts, literature, and even music.
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As Merdeka and Malaysia Day approach, we ask what it really means to love one’s country, and how that love is shaped, displayed, and sometimes demanded. From flags and anthems to public rituals and policy messaging, we get into the tools used to foster national pride, and the tensions between genuine commitment and performative loyalty.
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Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama and leader of Tibetan Buddhism, has turned 90 this year, prompting conversations about who his successor will be. Though the Dalai Lama has said the mission to identify his reincarnation lies in the hands of the Gaden Phodrang Trust, Beijing is attempting to assert dominance over the process. We ask Amit Kumar to lay out the social and political contexts that underlie China and Tibet’s tumultuous relationship amidst this increasingly sensitive situation.
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On August 6th, 1945, the United States of America dropped the nuclear bombs, Fat Man and Little Boy, on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, killing an estimated 300,000 people in total. The bombings ended World War II, but they also began a nuclear age, and left behind generations of survivors known as hibakusha. For 80 years, they’ve lived with radiation, illness, and stigma. And they’ve asked: who is responsible? Where is justice? What does it mean to remember Hiroshima and Nagasaki, not just as history, but as a political and moral reckoning? To explore this and the current state of the nuclear arms race, we’re joined by Vladisaya Vasileva, an Assistant Professor at Hiroshima University’s Center for Peace, whose work looks at the lives of survivors and Hiroshima’s peace philosophy.
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For the longest time, we were told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Cereal ads swore by it, your parents nagged you about it, and skipping it was practically taboo. But times have changed. Intermittent fasting is trending, and many of us aren’t exactly burning calories in the fields at dawn — we're just seated at our desks in front of our laptops. So what's the truth? Is breakfast a scam? We speak to nutritionist Lee Zhi Ling.
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Most people think of museums as cool, educational spaces that store and display objects of historical and cultural significance. On the one hand, that’s true — but on the other, many of those objects were taken by force during colonial rule, often in violent military campaigns. In this episode, we speak with archaeologist and author Dan Hicks about how looted artefacts ended up in British museums, what stories are being told (and hidden) through their displays, and why more and more people are calling for these items to be returned.
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From the trenches of Ukraine to the skies over Iran, from strategic waterways to the human toll of mass mobilisation, warfare today feels both ancient and futuristic. With Dr Alexey Muraviev, Associate Professor in National Security and Strategic Studies at Curtin University, we explore what remains fundamental in war, and what has been transformed.
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Around the world, governments are scrambling to reverse population decline, but many of these solutions overlook the realities women face: lack of support, rising costs, unpaid care work, and limited choices. Malaysia’s fertility rate is falling too, but is that really a bad thing? In conjunction with World Population Day, Sivananthi Thanenthiran, Executive Director of ARROW, joins us to talk about rights, realities, and why the future of population policy must put people first.
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Love ‘em or hate ‘em, we’ve all seen Labubus: these cute yet kinda grotesque monsters. All around the world, people have been queuing and spending a lot of money - in some cases thousands of ringgits - just to get their hands on a Labubu, and even better if it’s a rare one. Labubus are the latest trend in collectibles and the fact that they’re sold in blind boxes - which means you don’t know which one you’re getting - makes it even more desirable. So here to unpack why Labubus have become so popular, we’re joined by Dr Racheal Louis Vincent, Lecturer in the Department of Marketing at Monash University.
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Researchers all over the world have studied what’s known as a “happiness paradox” a phenomenon where trying to make ourselves happier actually makes us less happy. But not making happiness a goal, and trying to live in the moment is not as easy as it sounds, especially in this era where everything’s so fast-paced and ephemeral. Is it even possible? We explore this with Sandy Clarke.
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Often called ‘Heaven on Earth,’ Kashmir has been riddled with geopolitical conflict for decades. After the recent attacks in Pahalgam, we sit down with Hafsa Kanjwal to explore its historical roots, major events and the way this conflict has shaped relations between India and Pakistan.
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How have fathers changed in today’s modern families? In conjunction with Father’s Day, which was just celebrated this past Sunday, we explore this question with Alan Yong, a licensed counsellor. From being the silent and strong provider, to taking on a bigger share of the emotional load, are fathers today raising their children the same way their own fathers did?
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What does it mean to be someone else’s voice, using sign language? Joining us to answer that question is Tan Lee Bee, one of our country’s most beloved sign language interpreters, who was recently awarded the Bintang Ahli Mangku Negara by the Agong for her service to the country. Joining her is Wan Zuraidah Abu, Head of Sign Language Interpreting Services, from the Malaysian Federation of the Deaf. We’ll also find out about the important role of sign language interpreters in reminding us that the deaf are also part of our communities.
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From quarter-life panic to mid-life meltdowns, psychologist Evone Phoo helps us unpack what an existential crisis really is, how meaning, identity, and even boredom shape these turning points, and how to navigate them without spiraling.
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It's a drink that's near and dear to every Malaysian's heart. After all, teh tarik is our national drink. But, this drink was once a major tool of trade that travelled across empires, cultures and centuries. We spill the tea with Erika Rappaport, author of A Thirst for Empire: How Tea Shaped the Modern World to find out how this drink became a cultural icon and a daily ritual for millions.
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They have been called the deadliest animal on Earth, spreading diseases like malaria, dengue, Zika, and more, killing hundreds of thousands each year. But on a personal level, they serve as a daily annoyance to humans worldwide. So in this episode, we ponder if we should eradicate mosquitoes altogether. Dr Ong Song-Quan joins us to discuss the ecological role they play and how we can protect ourselves from these pests.
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Following the passing of the late Pope Francis, the world turns its attention to the secretive process of choosing his successor. How exactly does a papal conclave work, and how much of what we see in films like Conclave is true? Historian Miles Pattenden joins us to separate fact from fiction, and explain what really goes on behind the Vatican’s closed doors.
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Think creativity is only for painters and poets? Think again. From coding to choreography, we explore how STEM and the arts feed off each other—and how blending both can spark big ideas in work, school, and everyday life.
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Serial killers are often depicted as a Western phenomenon, with research and popular culture heavily focused on cases from the U.S. and the U.K. In this episode, criminologist Haezreena Begum talks about serial killers from the Malaysian perspective, with a look at how our socio-cultural norms, policing systems and media portrayals may have led to the misclassification of serial killings in the country. We’ll also explore the overlooked trauma faced by victims and families amidst sensationalised narratives of such crimes.
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In light of recent political actions by US President Donald Trump, we break down what tariffs are, how they work, and why they matter. From their impact on global trade to how they affect prices of goods, we simplify the complexities of tariffs and explore their role in shaping the world economy.
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Flat earthers, anti-vaxxers, and TikTok grifters… Why do people believe in bad science, and is there any way to change their minds? Michael Marshall joins us to unpack the psychology behind conspiracies, why debunking bad science is so difficult, why trust in experts is fading, and how to push back without making things worse.
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The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion framework, known as DEI, has long been a lightning rod for debate, even before recent political actions by US President Donald Trump brought it back into the spotlight. So we unpack what DEI looks like in practice, its challenges and what it means to imbue it into the workplace, especially in the Malaysian context.
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Where did cryptocurrency come from, and how does it actually work? In this episode, we break down the basics—from Bitcoin’s beginnings to the mechanics of blockchain and decentralization. We also look at where crypto stands today, the challenges it faces, and what the future could hold, including financial risks and environmental concerns. Whether you're crypto-curious or just trying to sound smart at dinner parties, this is your 101 on the digital money revolution.
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Muslims have begun fasting for Ramadhan - a month of abstinence from food and drink between sunrise and sunset. And later this week, Catholics also begin fasting for 40 days of Lent. But if we look beyond the spiritual or religious reasons, many people also fast for their health and wellbeing. On Today I Learned, we’re answering the question of whether fasting can delay ageing, and is it for everyone? We explore the science behind fasting and calorie restriction, and what beneficial effects these practices have on the body over the short- and long-term.
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Timor-Leste—one of the world’s youngest nations—is often overshadowed by its larger neighbors. But how much do we really know about this Southeast Asian country? From its colonial past and hard-fought independence to its evolving democracy and growing economy, Timor-Leste has a rich history and a future full of possibilities. Joining us to explore this is Khoo Ying Hooi, Associate Professor at UM, who has also been appointed to the International Advisory Council by the Timor-Leste government for Centro Nacional Chega!
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If you grew up in Johor, Penang, or Singapore, you might have seen or been a part of the Chingay Parade, a century-old annual event where devotees carry palanquins housing deities from the main Chinese clans of the Hokkien, Cantonese, Hainan, Hakka, and Teochew. Johoreans, in particular, might remember this event as a vital part of Chinese New Year festivities since 1870. What makes this festival unique is that while it began as a Chinese community event, it has grown to attract Malays and Indians, becoming an intercultural success. We delve into the history and significance of Chingay with Rayner Tan, vice chairman of the Johor Old Ancient Temple, which is part of the Chingay parade.
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With Thaipusam just around the corner, this time of year often brings Batu Caves back to the forefront of every Malaysian’s mind. While most people remember the site for its colorful stairs and Hindu Temples, we often forget that this limestone structure is a biodiverse hotspot home to some of the rarest species of flora and fauna in Peninsular Malaysia. In this episode, we speak to Zarris Kem, Karst Naturalist and Member of the Malaysian Cave and Karst Conservancy about what makes Batu Caves unique as a geopark. We also discuss protection efforts, ecotourism and the research carried out on the Batu Caves Scientific Expedition.
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Every year, we see a familiar ritual taking place. People all over the world make ambitious New Year’s resolutions, often involving learning new skills and personal development. But if we’re honest with ourselves, how often does this pan out? We make promises to learn a new language, a new style of cooking or even play an instrument but come February, we’re still binge-watching TV shows. Why does this happen? In this episode, we speak to Cheng Yi about exactly this; how to be ambitious but sensible, choosing the right learning resources and creating a sustainable learning routine.
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Excitement is kicking in as we approach Chinese New Year. Families are preparing to return to their hometowns, clean their houses, pack Ang Pows, and gear up for reunion dinners. This celebration remains a time to reconnect with family and friends, to usher out the old year and bring in the luck of the new one. While many traditions have endured, some practices have evolved to fit modern times. So we delve into this with Florence Kuek, and talk about how these traditions continue to shape and adapt to contemporary lifestyles.
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Ahead of Trump’s inauguration, we take a deep dive into what’s to come with Donald Trump’s second term in the Oval office. We speak to Professor K.S. Nathan, Senior Research Fellow at the Asia-Europe Institute at Universiti Malaya, to understand how his return to power will reshape U.S. foreign policy. From shifting trade dynamics to ASEAN relations and security concerns in Greenland and the Panama Canal, Professor Nathan will discuss the challenges and opportunities that Malaysia (and the world) will face in the age of Trump 2.0.
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At the start of the new year, many of us pledge to get fit and healthy. But how do you stick with a fitness regime once the initial motivation wears off? We dive into the science behind habit formation, strategies for staying motivated and how to create a sustainable fitness plan with fitness coach, Abu.
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It’s the time of the year when we’re making resolutions for the year, we’ll be exploring a few of the common questions asked in fulfilling these resolutions. To kick off the first Today I Learned in 2025, the question we’re asking is related to eating healthier: how do I make vegan food taste good? We find out from Davina Goh, President of the Vegan Society Malaysia and Chef Stéphane Frelon, Executive Chef at Sunway Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia.
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It’s praised for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and health benefits—but what exactly is the Mediterranean Diet? Spanning 21 countries from Italy and Greece to Turkey and Morocco, this celebrated way of eating is more than just olive oil and fresh produce. Join us as we explore its origins, cultural significance, and what makes it a gold standard for healthy living.
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In this week’s episode, we explore a question asked by our listener, Zuhayri, who wanted to know why he cringes when he hears his own voice in a recording. We delve into the psychology behind this common phenomenon and find out why we often find the sound of our own voice uncomfortable.
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Maurizio Cattelan’s viral banana artwork - which consists of the yellow fruit duct-taped to a wall - was recently sold for US$6.2 million at an auction. This got us thinking - what makes something qualify as "art" especially in today's world? How is value placed on art, why do people collect it? For those of us not in the know, how do we get our start in the art collecting world? We speak to the experts, to find out.
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These days, people live accelerated lives, constantly on the go, rushing from one task to another. Everything needs to be faster. We pride ourselves on being busy. Technology which was once a promise of convenience and freedom, has instead tethered us to endless notifications and an always-on culture. The Tyranny of Speed, a new book by Sandy Clarke and Eugene Tee, dive into the impacts of our modern obsession with speed and the power of taking pause. We speak to the authors.
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This year’s World Toilet Day theme is “Toilets - A Place for Peace”. Now, Malaysia has made some progress when it comes to our public toilets, with the government making efforts to incentivise premises and ramping up inspections, but we haven’t always been known for best toilet facilities. So we thought it would be a great time to investigate and find out what makes a good public toilet, the idea of “peace” when it comes to toilet-related sanitation and how far along are we in achieving the government’s aim for a BMW (Bersih, Menawan, Wangi) rated toilet.
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We journey through the captivating life of historian William Dalrymple to trace his path from the UK to India and unveil the inspirations that led him to explore the subcontinent’s layered history in his best-selling books. We also dive into his latest work, The Golden Road, a sweeping account of India’s far-reaching influence on global civilization—from religion and art to mathematics—as it spread across continents over centuries, reshaping the ancient world.
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Figuring out how to navigate family dynamics as an adult will be stressful for most people, but throwing politics into the mix often makes heads spin. That’s what Kamal, one of our listeners, has been experiencing with his family, who don’t exactly share the same principles and values as him. We explore how we can bridge this divide, and what we can learn from taking a nuanced approach to the matter.
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With Deepavali around the corner, we speak to Shankar Kandasamy about the origins of Deepavali, its spiritual significance and unique traditions. From the nostalgia of family gatherings to the significance of traditional dances, we’ll uncover the enchanting layers of Deepavali.
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Every parent worries about their child’s future employment prospects. But if you have a child who is neurodivergent, such as a child with autism, ADHD, or Down Syndrome, these concerns become even more marked and urgent. In today’s show, we answer parent Samantha Yong’s question: How do I prepare my neurodivergent child for employment in adulthood? Ivy Philip, the founder of EmployAble, explores what parents and potential employers need to know in terms of training and support for neurodiversity in the workplace.
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The 44th ASEAN (short for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) summit is underway, so we thought it would be a great time to do a deep dive on ASEAN, especially since Malaysia is set to take the Chairmanship next year. The idea for this conversation came from one of our listeners, Aaron Iskandar, who wanted to know more about ASEAN’s role in promoting economic and security cooperation among its members. We speak to our expert, Sharon Seah, Senior Fellow and Coordinator at the ASEAN Studies Centre at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, for this.
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Ageing anxiety is the fear of growing old and what might come with it, from illness to losing your lustre for life. It’s a fear that has irked Soraya Carol, one of our listeners, who recently turned 60. We take a closer look at this fear, and hear from Soraya to understand where she’s coming from. Then, we speak to our gerontologist Lily Fu, on the best practices to living well in one’s older years, and dealing with issues that may arise from this new chapter in one’s life.
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Do you find yourself tearing up when someone else is crying, even if you don’t know why? We delve into why tears can make people uneasy, the cultural stigma surrounding crying, and how reactions differ between men and women. Plus, we discuss those who seldom cry and how tears became a sign of weakness, and something you should grow out of.
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It’s well-known that some animals, like the axolotl and the salamander possess remarkable regenerative abilities. Humans, however, don’t possess this ability, unless you’re a fictional superhero character like Deadpool. That's what Timothy Tuan, one of our listeners, brought up when he asked us about whether humans can regenerate one day. We explore the reasons why we cannot regrow our limbs and organs, and if scientists are close to making a breakthrough in the world of regenerative medicine.
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It’s Sexual Health Awareness Month, which means it’s the perfect opportunity to learn about sex. But for many, learning about one’s sexual health might be confusing, embarrassing or even taboo. So who do we turn to when we need to learn about the birds and the bees? Friends, our parents or the internet? We explore the best way to learn, with sex educator June Low.
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As Merdeka approaches, we examine the man who was Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-haj, our first Prime Minister, and founding father of Malaya and Malaysia. We reminisce about Tunku's remarkable life and enduring legacy with Emeritus Professor Datuk Dr Hj Shad Saleem Faruqi (Holder of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Chair, University of Malaya, Trustee, Yayasan Tunku Abdul Rahman) and Johan Rozali-Wathooth (Trustee, Yayasan Tunku Abdul Rahman).
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If you’ve watched the Planet of the Apes series, you’ve probably wondered: What would happen if apes decided to gang up on humans? Would we stand a chance against them? If apes ever learn to speak, are we absolutely done for? Some even say the apes have entered the stone age. How much longer do we have until they decide to club us in the head and take the world for their own? And if they hypothetically come together, could they develop a culture? Will they demand human (or ape) rights? We pick apart our monkey brains for answers with Dr Felicity Oram, a behavioural ecologist and primatologist who (fun fact!) actually cared for the real-life orangutan that inspired Maurice in the first three Planet of the Apes films.
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Learning languages can be a daunting task, especially when you’re expected to be a master of three or more. But what if we can merge our languages to become one? We explore the idea of a unified language, and also the intricacies involved in language-learning.
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What is the profound connection between Indigenous people and their land? What is the difference between Orang Asal and Orang Asli? We speak to Dr Welyne Jeffrey Jehom, an anthropologist from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences of Universiti Malaya about these cultural ties and the challenges these communities face.
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Why are Malayan Tigers so special? Why are there so few of them left in the wild? What led to their decline? Why aren't efforts to protect them working? What would happen if there are no more Malayan Tigers left in the wild? This Global Tiger Day, we explore these questions and more with conservationist Lau Ching Fong, who is also the Acting Director of the Perak State Parks Corporation.
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Gaming has often been associated with myths and stereotypes like fostering laziness, promoting violence, and leading to social isolation. Our listener Jon, an avid gamer in his 60s, wants to challenge these assumptions. Can gaming actually improve our memory, spatial awareness, and alertness? In this episode of Today I Learned, we debunk these myths and explore the nuanced impacts of gaming on our brains.
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Do you love using emojis to convey the emotions behind your words but find that not everyone actually gets what you’re trying to say? Why do people interpret emojis differently? On this episode of Today I Learned we dive into the world of emojis to find out how they’ve evolved as a language and whether the miscommunications are worth the fun.
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In this episode, we explore a question from Nicole Cheok, a parent, who wants the answer to a perennial parenting question: how can we support our children and give them tremendous amounts of love and support… without raising someone who’s spoiled? Tan Cheng Yi, an educational psychologist, gives her take, as we field questions from listeners as well.
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Whether you're a columnist for a newspaper, a film critic, a nonfiction writer or just enjoy writing casually, improving your creative writing skills is essential for achieving success. So, how do you do it?
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Why do we take turns when talking to one another? On the surface, it seems quite basic. Of course, we shouldn’t be talking over each other. But did you know that this seemingly basic thing we do every single day in all our conversations requires tremendous precision?
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Imagine pursuing a romantic interest while harbouring deep-seated insecurities or fear of intimacy, leading to self-sabotaging behaviours such as overanalyzing, pushing or creating unnecessary drama in the relationship. This is an example of self-sabotaging.
But why do people self-sabotage?
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Hope is that feeling of wanting something to happen or to be true. It is the spark that keeps us going through tough times. But what is the deeper importance of hope? We speak to Dr Eugene Tee, Associate Professor in Psychology.
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Labour Day is celebrated on the 1st of May every year. But why do we observe Labour Day? What is its history?
We speak to Audi Ali, who’s a labour rights activist and a writer for Jentayu.
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Imagine this. Your partner seems a bit distant or quiet for a day or two. Instead of considering that your partner might be stressed or busy, your immediate thought is "They're probably cheating on me! Our relationship is doomed, and I'll never find love again!" That’s called catastrophizing. But what exactly is it and how do we overcome it?
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It is becoming increasingly common for us to receive a call from an unknown number telling us that we have a package stuck somewhere or a WhatsApp message offering the best salaries and investment plans. You engage, go down the rabbit hole and then lose tens of thousands of ringgit, as they turned out to be scams.
But how do scams work and how do we spot a scam?
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Think of the scene from Harry Potter where Harry makes Ron think that he has spiked his drink with the liquid luck potion. Ron then goes on to play the best game of Quidditch he’s ever played, only for Harry to later reveal that he didn’t actually put anything in Ron’s drink. Ron played well because he thought his drink contained the liquid luck potion.
This is called The Placebo Effect. But how does it work, exactly?
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It is estimated that there are more than 7000 languages in the world. Some languages are going extinct, some are growing in popularity, some are spoken in many regions around the world, and some are considered more niche. So, how are languages formed and how do they evolve and travel?
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Bank Negara Malaysia, or BNM, is the central bank of Malaysia. We often hear about its pivotal role in Malaysia's economy, in monitoring and perhaps even managing currency exchange rates and OPRs. But what exactly is Bank Negara Malaysia? What are its powers and limitations?
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Malaysia has been listed as the 5th happiest country (or 5th best mental well-being) in the world according to a report by the Global Mind Project. But are we really doing that well? We spoke to Dr Eugene Tee about the difference between happiness and well-being, why Malaysia ranked so highly and more.
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"Revenge bedtime procrastination" is when people decide to sacrifice sleep to enjoy leisure time or time to themselves. But what are the root causes of revenge bedtime procrastination and how is it different from excitedly staying up to binge-watch a TV series you’re currently addicted to?
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We're often told that striving for perfection is the key to success. But is it? Or is it detrimental to one’s wellbeing? What’s the difference between perfectionism and healthy striving? We speak to Sandy Clarke, licensed counsellor.
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Did you know that words can change how we feel? The framing of language can influence the way we think and feel about certain events. So, how exactly does language shape emotions?
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Relationships are about connecting with others, supporting one another, and caring for one another. But did you know that to maintain healthy relationships, you must first love yourself? So, why is self-love important for healthy relationships?
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Picture this: You and someone named Bob live in the same neighbourhood and go to the same school. But you never noticed each other. One day, you and Bob become friends. And since then, you notice Bob everywhere – when you’re walking to school, when he’s jogging around the park and when he’s eating at the nearby Kopitiam. He hasn’t changed his routine and neither have you – it’s just that you’re noticing him. How does this work? What is the connection between memory and perception? We speak to Dr Chua Sook Ning, who’s a psychologist and the founder of Relate Malaysia.
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Every now and again, whenever there’s news about the ringgit becoming weaker, there will also be subsequent debates on whether our Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) should be adjusted. But what exactly is OPR?
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Personality tests are incredibly popular. Whether it’s in-depth ones like the Myers Briggs Type Indicator tests or silly ones on Facebook, many of us enjoy taking these tests, so much so that some people even display the result of their personality tests on their dating profiles. But are personality tests accurate? And what do they tell us?
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Every great writer has a distinctive voice. Whether it’s bestselling authors like Stephen King, screenwriters like Aaron Sorkin or Quentin Tarantino or even film critics like Baradwaj Rangan or the late Roger Ebert, all have unique voices that can be instantly recognised just by reading a few paragraphs or pages. So, how does a writer develop their voice?
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It’s the season of new year new me. So it’s only natural that people have big and lofty goals on transforming yourself. But how can people set realistic goals for personal growth and contentment in the new year? We speak to Sandy Clarke, Licensed Counsellor.
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Beyond being a communication tool, language is also an important fabric of personal identity, cultural identity and national identity. Language encapsulates history, values, and diverse expressions that could bind communities in a collective identity. So, in a country with multiple languages, ethnicities, and religions, how can language serve as a unifying force? We discuss with Dr Surinderpal Kaur, Dean of Faculty of Languages and Linguistics, University Malaya.
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Imagine living your whole life believing that human beings are inherently good. Imagine being very confident in your belief. What if one day you come across an article/research discussing how human beings are inherently selfish and evil? How would that make you feel?
We’ve all experienced that uncomfortable feeling when we come across information that contradicts our existing beliefs. It’s called Cognitive dissonance. But what exactly is it and how do we overcome it?
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Long-distance relationships bring forth a myriad of challenges—emotional isolation, uncertainty about the future, and the ever-present spectre of jealousy. The lack of physical intimacy complicates things further. So, how can we navigate the intricacies of long-distance relationships?
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We often hear about how the Ringgit is becoming weaker or stronger when compared to other currencies. For example, people often talk about how at one point, the Ringgit to the Singapore dollar was 1:1, but now one SGD is more than RM 3. More commonly we often discuss the ringgit to the US dollar. But how does any of this work, exactly?
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It’s hardly controversial to say that everybody wants to be happy. In fact, many consider happiness their ultimate goal in life. But is the pursuit of happiness a meaningful goal? Is that the right approach to live life? We speak to Sandy Clarke, Licensed Counsellor and author 'Mindfulness and Emotions: Understanding Your Mind and the Benefits of Being Present'.
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As technology becomes a bigger and bigger part of our lives, data protection becomes increasingly important. But what do global privacy laws say about data protection? We speak to Devasheesh Bais, Fellow, Centre for International Law Research and Policy (CILRAP).
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What is the purpose of life and living? This is something that many of us tend to ask ourselves at one point or another. Ikigai is a Japanese concept referring to something that gives a person a sense of purpose. But how do you identify your Ikigai? We discuss with Dr Eugene Tee, Associate Professor in Psychology.
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Many people tend to think that we live in a world where most people are inherently greedy, selfish and evil. That when push comes to shove, we all want more for ourselves, even if it means less for everyone else. But just how true is that? We discuss with Dr Chua Sook Ning, a psychologist and the founder of RELATE Malaysia.
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Approximately 48 hours ago, Hamas, the militant faction in Palestine, launched an unprecedented operation. Hamas fired rockets and also sent its fighters from the Gaza Strip into southern Israel. They managed to briefly take control of some Israeli settlements and took some Israeli soldiers hostage too. This is all in response to years of illegal occupation of Palestinian land by the Zionist Israel regime and the oppression of the Palestinian people. But just how crucial is this particular moment?
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You’ve probably heard of pyramid and Ponzi schemes. They’re deceptive investment models that promise high returns but ultimately collapse, leaving unsuspecting and often vulnerable participants with significant losses. But how exactly does a pyramid scheme work?
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We know that language is an important communication tool. But it is so much more than that. It is part of our identity, culture and how we express ourselves. But what exactly is the relationship between language and our identity?
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Fiscal Policy is an important economic tool. It can tell us whether a government is going to be spending more or less. But how does fiscal policy work exactly and what is its significance in economic management?
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UMNO President Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s recent Discharge Not Amounting to Acquittal for his Yayasan Akal Budi case has renewed calls among civil society to separate the powers of the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor. But what exactly are the functions of the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor?
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BFM is celebrating its 15th birthday today. In light of that, we’re walking down memory lane to bring you 15-minute snippets of conversations from the years past. Launched in May 2021, Today I Learned is an educational show that explores various topics of interest surrounding psychology, philosophy, economy, language and more.
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Online dating or meeting your potential partner online has become the norm. This has transformed the landscape and culture of dating. But what are some of the biggest positives and drawbacks of online dating?
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We’ve all probably heard of the simple concept called ‘Freedom of Expression’. But what exactly is it, why is it important and is there such a thing as too much freedom of expression?
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GDP or Gross Domestic Product often stands as a quintessential yardstick, reflecting a nation's economic vitality. But what exactly is it and is it a good barometer of how well a country is doing?
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Throughout history, diverse cultures and individuals have exhibited unique attitudes towards ‘death’, often accompanied by an inherent fear of the unknown. But should we fear death? We’re joined by Sandy Clarke, licensed counsellor who’s trained in existential therapy. We discuss why fear of death and the nothingness that comes after, is so common and why mortality can actually be liberating.
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Money laundering is an act of concealing the origins of illicit funds to make them appear legitimate. But how does it work exactly, and how do we prevent it? We speak to Raymon Ram, who’s an anti-money laundering specialist.
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War, a concept as old as human civilization itself, has played a prominent role in shaping our history. While we continue to push for a world without war, one has to sadly acknowledge that it isn’t the world we live in today. So, amidst the chaos and devastation war brings, the necessity arises to distinguish between the ethical and the immoral. So, what are the Dos and Don’ts of war?
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Tax the rich! That’s a phrase that has become increasingly mainstream and popular in recent years. The call to tax the proverbial rich has only grown stronger in a post-pandemic world. But who are the rich, exactly, and why do we need to tax them?
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You may have heard of the term intersectionality, used by activists or policymakers, especially in recent years. At its core, intersectionality acknowledges that people’s experiences are shaped by multiple social categories such as race, gender and class, which intersect to produce unique and often compounded forms of disadvantage in a particular society.
But what exactly does that mean? We speak to Sivananthi Thanenthiran, Executive Director, Asian-Pacific Resource & Research Centre for Women (ARROW).
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Most of us have probably experienced getting angry at one point or another. We may get angry when we feel threatened or face rejection. Sometimes, we may get angry for something silly or petty. But what is anger, exactly and how do we deal with it?
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“Who am I?” That’s a question that many of us would’ve asked ourselves at some point in our lives. But how do we get to the bottom of it? How do we begin to think about answering this question? We discuss with Sandy Clarke, licensed Counsellor.
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How do you want to be loved? And is it akin to how your partner expresses their love towards you? Well, did you know that understanding and exploring the concept of love languages can greatly enhance communication and emotional connection in relationships?
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There is a misconception that if you’re unemployed, it’s probably because you’re lazy or lack the skills that the job market requires. But what about when employers purposely downsize to maximize profits? And what happens when technology becomes so advanced, that most of us become unemployed? We speak to Dr Geoffrey Williams, Economist, Malaysia University of Science and Technology.
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From ancient conflicts between empires to modern-day wars fought with advanced technology, war has been a tragic and pervasive feature of human history, claiming countless lives and inflicting immeasurable suffering. Oftentimes the horrific consequences of war are felt many, many years after the war ends. But why do wars happen?
We speak to Peter Beattie, who’s a political psychologist and political economist at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
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Recently, an elderly couple died after consuming pufferfish. The couple, both in their early 80s, unknowingly purchased at least two pufferfish from an online vendor. Unbeknownst to some, Pufferfish is incredibly poisonous. However, there are certain cultures that have Pufferfish as part of their cuisines. So, what’s unique about Pufferfish that make them either deadly or delicacies?
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Over the past few years, Cryptocurrencies have gained widespread attention, for its decentralized nature, technological potential and also because many assume that it’s a good way to make a quick buck. However, cryptocurrencies have also been associated with illegal and highly unethical activities, including money laundering and financing terrorism.
But how exactly does that work? We speak to Raymon Ram, Certified Fraud Examiner.
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War crimes are defined as serious violations of international humanitarian law committed during armed conflicts, including acts such as murder, torture, and deliberate targeting of civilians. But what happens when a country commits a war crime? Who do we hold accountable? And what if the one committing the crime is a global superpower? We explore this with Devasheesh Bais from the Centre for International Law Research and Policy (CILRAP).
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Ghosting. That’s a phenomenon that has become increasingly prevalent in modern dating and social interactions, especially when interactions are online. But what exactly is ghosting, why do people do it and what are its impacts?
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Malaysian-Indians are the third largest ethnic group in the country, making up about 7% of the nation’s population. But what exactly is a Malaysian-Indian? How has the identity evolved over the years? We speak to Dr Asha Rathina Pandi, a sociologist.
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Imagine you’re at your high school reunion. It’s been about 15 years since you last saw your peers from school. A former classmate of yours comes up and says “Wow! You’re a professor at a university now? That’s awesome. You’ve really come a long way since your high school years, eh?” Your ex-teacher chimes in too. “Yes! You’ve changed a lot. I’m so proud of you!” You flash an awkward smile but internally wonder, “what does that mean? What was wrong with me back in the day? Was I that different? Did I really change?”
This is what many would call a lack of self-awareness. But what exactly is self-awareness? And how does one become more self-aware?
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There is often a perception that feminism is a Western worldview or culture (AKA Budaya Barat). But is that really true? How do we contextualise the movement for gender equality here in the Southeast Asian region? In conjunction with International Women’s Day, we speak to Sharon A. Bong, Professor of Gender Studies at the School of Arts and Social Sciences, Monash University Malaysia. She has also co-edited the book Gender and Sexuality Justice in Asia (2020).
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For decades, Palestinians have suffered injustice and oppression at the hands of the violent Israeli Zionist regime. There have been many attempts to resolve this conflict peacefully, but negotiations have always fallen through. But what lies at the heart of the Israel-Palestinian conflict?
Baha Hilo, a Palestinian rights activist and educator. Since 2013 he has been focused on education on Palestine through an initiative called “To Be There” where he focuses on explaining the complicated history of this conflict. He joins us on the show to discuss.
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Nepotism – that’s a word we’ve been hearing a lot lately. Whether it's during the backlash against YB Nurul Izzah when she was appointed by Anwar Ibrahim to be his economic advisor or even when we discuss celebrity culture. But what exactly is nepotism? Is it ethical?
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Persuasion is the act of convincing someone to do or believe something. But what makes some people so persuasive, while others aren’t? Why do some salespeople, for example, have the ability to sell water to fish? In this episode, we discuss Robert Cialdini’s Pre-Suasion: A Revolutionary Way to Influence and Persuade.
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The minimum wage level in Malaysia is currently at RM 1500, which isn’t even a living wage, which experts say is around RM 2700 in the Klang Valley. But it isn’t just the minimum wage. We often hear about people with bachelor’s and master’s degrees barely making a living wage. Many Malaysians, including professionals, are leaving to work in neighbouring countries, for better wages.
But why are wages in Malaysia so low?
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There’s a new Artificial Intelligence tool in town. And if you, for example, ask it to write an essay on the pros and cons of capitalism, it’ll produce an in-depth piece for you in a matter of seconds. It can also write rap songs and poetry that would impress the likes of Tupac and Shakespeare. It’s called ChatGPT and it’s incredibly intelligent. But what is it exactly and is it going to take over the planet ala Skynet in Terminator?
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One of the age-old debates among linguists, philosophers and even psychologists is if language can shape the way we think. Well, Sandy Clarke, who’s an author and licensed counsellor suggests that not only can language impact one’s psychology, but also one’s perception of time can impact psychology, as well. But how exactly?
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Chances are, you’ve experienced failure at some point in your life, if not many points. Failure is heartbreaking and more often than not, the fear of failure can prevent you from pursuing dreams or trying new things. But what exactly is failure? What can it teach us? And does our understanding of failure focus too much on individuals rather than society?
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Many of us have probably experienced the wonderfully magical feeling called ‘love’ at one point or another in our lives, either romantically or otherwise. But what exactly is love? How do we put that feeling into words?
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New Year’s Resolutions. It’s that time of the year again, where many of us are excitedly setting goals and dreams that we need to start pursuing from the first week of January.
But the thing about New Year’s Resolutions is, many of us also don’t stick to it after a few weeks have passed. Why does this happen? And what should we keep in mind when setting new year’s resolutions?
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Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim has been appointed the 10th Prime Minister of Malaysia. We discuss Anwar’s journey, from his student activist days, getting sacked by Tun Dr Mahathir, the reformasi movement and becoming the Prime Minister after 25 years of fighting tirelessly.
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GE14 was a monumental day in Malaysian history as the people voted out the incumbent Barisan Nasional government, which had been at the helm of Malaysia for 60 years. However, the events that have transpired over the past couple of years, namely Langkah Sheraton, has made some people wonder “what did GE14 actually accomplish? Did the people change anything?”
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Voting for the first time can be an intimidating task, especially if you haven’t been paying much attention to the political landscape. So, what do you have to keep in mind as a first time voter?
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Many young people are feeling political apathy, not just in Malaysia, but across the globe, as well. But why is this happening and what can be done about it? We speak to Peter Beattie, who’s an expert in political psychology.
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"Do I still need to register to vote?" "Do people from Selangor only need to vote next year?" "What's the point of voting if politicians are just going to hop around?"
Feeling confused on the road to GE? In this episode, we answer all your questions (well, as many as we can) about GE15 and unpack everything you need to know as a voter heading into GE15.
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Many of us have probably been in this situation before. Our friend or partner say they have something to tell us. We hear them and then immediately chime in to give advice or suggestions, only for them to get frustrated and say “I don’t want your advice. I just want you to understand me.”
But what is the importance of active listening? We’re joined by Sandy Clarke, Licensed Counsellor.
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In a powerful act of resistance, Iranian women are risking their lives by burning their headscarves and protesting against their government. But what sparked these protests? Will this uprising bring about a new Iran? We’re joined by Assal Rad, Research Director, National Iranian American Council. She’s also the author of ‘State of Resistance: Politics, Culture & Identity in Modern Iran.’
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Many decades ago, many countries around the world, including Malaysia, declared drug abuse the biggest threat and menace to society. The solution was to start a war on drugs, as US President Nixon had pushed for. But what if the war on drugs has been a complete and catastrophic failure? On this episode, we discuss why the war on drugs has been a failure and why we should decriminalise drugs for personal use.
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We’re constantly exposed to fake news and bad news. So, how do we consume news media and maintain our sanity? We discuss this with Asst Prof Peter Beattie, Media Researcher, Chinese University of Hong Kong.
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Today, we live in an individualistic world, one where the term “dependence” is seen as a sign of weakness. “Self-made” has become a buzzword, especially by the rich and proponents of hustle culture. But is dependency a sign of weakness? And what does “self-made” mean, anyway? We’re joined by Sandy Clarke, licensed counsellor and author.
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Criminal Breach of Trust or CBT is a term we’ve been hearing a lot lately, in light of various corruption charges involving high profile politicians. But what exactly is CBT and why is money laundering always mentioned in CBT-related reports? Raymon Ram who’s a certified fraud consultant and the secretary general of Transparency International - Malaysia, joins us to discuss.
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The Social Contract. When we hear this term, most of us have a particular image in our heads – an image of Tunku Abdul Rahman, Tan Cheng Lock and V. T. Sambanthan in a chamber with some old British dudes signing something that has come to define Malaysian politics and history for better or worse. But what if we told you that there’s no mention of “The Social Contract” in our constitution? So, where did that term come from? We unpack this with Noor Nethusha Nusaybah, historian and President of Imagined Malaysia.
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Littoral Combat Ship. Unless you’ve been living under a rock recently, you would’ve heard about the latest scandal Malaysia is embroiled in, this time centred around six military ships and 9 billion ringgit. Some have called it 1MDB 2.0, but why and who is entangled in this scandal? We’re joined by Cynthia Gabriel, Human Rights Advocate, Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4).
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According to many studies, toxic work culture is the biggest reason why people quit their jobs. But what exactly does a toxic workplace look like? And on the flip side, how can you tell if you’re the one who’s making your workplace toxic? Deepa George, HR Consultant, joins us to discuss.
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It’s been a month since the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The shooting came as a shock because Japan is considered one of the safest countries in the world, one where gun violence especially is very much unheard of in modern times. So what has been the sociopolitical fallout of his assassination?
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On the 20th of July 2022, the Malaysian Parliament passed the long-awaited Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill. But did you know that the first draft of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill was penned 22 years ago?
On this episode, we take a look at the origins of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill and the significance of it finally being passed in Parliament.
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The Elon Musk and Twitter saga continues. Billionaire Elon Musk said he’s no longer interested in buying Twitter. Twitter says it’s having none of that and will sue Musk to ensure the deal goes through. So, what does this all mean? In a follow-up to our previous conversation, we speak with Assistant Professor Peter Beattie, Media Researcher, Lecturer, Global Political Economy & Political Psychology, Chinese University of Hong Kong.
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Most of us probably have some experiences with shyness – That sense of awkwardness or uneasiness felt when in the company of others. The question is, why do we feel shy? And how do we overcome it?
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China is a one-party state governed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). But are they actually a communist (or socialist) country? On this episode of Today I Learned, we explore China's massive growth over the past three decades, the difference between Chinese socialism and Capitalism, the ups and downs of embracing the free market and how do the youth and working class people in China feel about the revolutionary figure, Chairman Mao Zedong. We're joined by Zhun Xu, Associate Professor of Economics, John Jay College and Graduate Center, CUNY. Interestingly, while Zhun Xu lives and teaches in the US now, he was born and grew up in China.
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Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, is facing extradition to the United States after it was given the green light by the British Government. So, what exactly is this case about and how does it threaten free speech?
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World Refugee Day is observed every year on the 20th of June to celebrate the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. But what does it mean to be a refugee? What are the challenges they go through?
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Inflation & recession. Every so often, economists and governments use these terms when discussing the economic health of the country. But what exactly do they mean and how does it affect your finances?
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On the 1st of June, Johnny Depp won his defamation trial against Amber Heard.
It was televised live and social media consumed and commented on it like a spectator sport or reality tv. While some people watched the entirety of the trial, many others kept up by watching bits and pieces circulating on social media in the form of memes. The entire thing was bizarre, to say the least. Netizens cheered and clapped for Johnny Depp and poked fun at Amber Heard.
But has there been a disinformation campaign surrounding the trial? And does Johnny Depp deserve his heroic redemption arc?
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Money is a big part of our lives and well-being. You need money to put food on the table, to send your kids to school and even for healthcare. But can money buy happiness? Dr Eugene Tee, Associate Professor in Psychology, joins us to explore this question.
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In February 1986, a revolutionary mass revolt in the Philippines led to the downfall of its corrupt and cruel dictator, Ferdinand Marcos. He and his family fled the country. Yet, 36 years later, the Philippines voted in the son of that very same dictator, namely Ferdinand Marcos Jr (also known as Bongbong). So, how did this happen? Dr Maria Atienza, a professor of political science in the Philippines joins us to discuss.
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Did you know that moral policing women or normalising certain things that men do by chalking it up to “boys will be boys” contributes to violence and sexual assault against women? It’s called Rape Culture. But what exactly is rape culture?
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The richest person on the planet, Elon Musk, is on the verge of owning Twitter. Mark Zuckerberg owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Billionaires are also behind YouTube. On the surface, these may seem like benign information. But what if we told you that this is dangerous and harmful to you and free speech?
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Healthy Eating can sound scary. Does eating healthy mean no more Nasi Lemak? Does it need to be expensive? Do you have to pick a fancy-sounding diets like “Keto” or “Intermittent Fasting”? Or are these just myths?
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Mamak restaurants. They’re everywhere in Malaysia. In fact, they’re a part of our culture. They sell a wide variety of Malaysian food, cater to all races and even televise football matches which brings about massive crowds, especially during the weekend. But how did this unique restaurant concept come to be and how has it contributed to social cohesion in the country?
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WWE just concluded its 38th annual Wrestlemania event. The show took place over two days at a packed AT&T Stadium in Texas. More than 130 thousand tickets were sold. In 2015, WrestleMania made the list of most valuable sports brands, even topping the UEFA Champions League.
But what on earth is Wrestlemania and why is it such a big deal?
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Happiness – we all want it, many of us are constantly chasing it, but most of us have no idea what it means to begin with. In this episode, we explore happiness, how it’s different from contentment and how we can go about attaining it.
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Economic sanctions. We’ve been hearing this term a lot recently, especially with relation to the Russia-Ukraine crisis. We know that countries are throwing sanctions at Russia in an effort to stop their invasion of Ukraine. But what exactly are sanctions? And how do they work?
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Here’s how many people believe elections in Malaysia work: You cast your vote on election day. The party/coalition that amasses more than half of the population’s votes wins and forms the government. But what if we told you that this isn’t the case; That a lot of the time, the party that forms the government, is a party that isn’t popular amongst the people. On this episode, we discuss our First-Past-the-Post electoral system and what we can do about it.
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Feminists hate men and want women to be the dominant gender. Is that true or is that a myth? It’s International Women’s Day today. International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. In light of that, in this episode, we will be busting myths surrounding feminism.
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Russia has invaded Ukraine. Conflict between Russia & the West has reached a boiling point. But what interests lie behind the conflict, and what should be the position of good working-class people?
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Breakups. Not only do they hurt so bad, they’re not easy to overcome. But why? Why is it so difficult to get over breakups and move on, and what can we do about it – How do we get over a breakup?
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Consent means actively agreeing to be sexual with someone. Sexual activity without consent is rape or sexual assault. But what exactly constitutes consent and can it be withdrawn?
Jernell Tan of AWAM joins us to give us the 101 on consent.
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If you’re Malaysian, you’ve probably heard things like “Indians are all gangsters and criminals," or "Indians are alcoholics, drug addicts and wife beaters."
But is the concept of the “rowdy Indian criminal” based on facts or are there systemic issues that need addressing? Is it a myth consciously or subconsciously perpetuated to protect the status quo?
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Breakups are not easy. They can be unpleasant, uncomfortable and even scary. We all know this. Many of us have experienced it. The question is, why is breaking up so hard, even if we know the person is not right for us?
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Wrestling is scripted. The winners and losers are pre-determined and so is the over the top drama, tension and animosity. We all know this – wrestling fans, especially. So, why are millions of people crazy about this crazy, erm, sport? Artform? Entertainment?
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It’s the end of the year, so let’s relive some of the best moments from the show in 2021. On this week’s best of, we revisit some of the conversations we had on political economy, media and the likes in the US and Malaysia.
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It’s the end of the year, so we take a look at some of the fun things we’ve learned this year, from ‘why we swear’ to if ‘introverts are antisocial or misunderstood.’ Relive some of the best moments from Today I Learned in 2021.
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Last month, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and women’s rights activist, Malala Yousafzai’s marriage sparked debate. While many were happy for Malala, many others argued that Malala’s decision to marry is an antithesis to feminism and goes against what she stands for. The question is, is marriage anti-feminist?
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Xenophobia is dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries. We’ve seen this a lot but over the past couple of years during the COVID-19 pandemic, bigotry and prejudice against foreign nationals have only risen. But why are people xenophobic? What role do politicians and capitalism play in it?
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When it comes to the US media, we often bash Fox news for spewing fake news. But what if it isn’t just Fox? What if the entire US media system is broken? And if so, how did it become this way? Asst Prof Peter Beattie, Lecturer in Global Political Economy, joins us to discuss.
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All around the world, people are talking more and more about socialism or left-wing politics, particularly on social media. It is becoming more popular. However, this doesn’t seem to translate into election results. But why, exactly? And what can socialists do about it?
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Everyone has a fundamental human right to adequate housing. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that “Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of themself and of their family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services.” Yet, Malaysians by and large simply cannot afford to buy a house anymore. This is especially true if you’re a millennial. But what exactly is the problem here? And what can we do to solve it?
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It’s an unfortunate reality that even today, society places so much emphasis on the colour of your skin. People may perceive you as intelligent or stupid based on the colour of your skin, beauty is often tied to a particular colour, and people may even see you as a threat, because of the colour of your skin. And we’re not necessarily talking about race here, or racism, but rather racism’s equally rotten brother, colourism. But what exactly is colourism? And where does it stem from?
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There has been an increase in chatter about cannabis in recent years, particularly when it comes to legalising medical cannabis? It was recently brought up by Muar MP Syed Saddiq. But should Malaysia legalise medical benefits? And what would be its benefits?
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Young people are suffering. Youth unemployment rate has been on the rise, salaries have stagnated for close to 20 years, despite the massive increase in cost of living. Cost of education is at an all time high and upon graduating, most people find themselves in massive debts. The average millennials and Gen Z cannot even afford adequate housing on a single paycheck, despite it being a basic necessity -- a human right! The COVID-19 pandemic has only made things worse.
What if these are all natural causes of capitalism? And could socialism be the solution?
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Young people are suffering. Youth unemployment rate has been on the rise, salaries have stagnated for close to 20 years, despite the massive increase in cost of living. Cost of education is at an all time high and upon graduating, most people find themselves in massive debts. The average millennials and Gen Z cannot even afford adequate housing on a single paycheck, despite it being a basic necessity -- a human right! The COVID-19 pandemic has only made things worse.
What if these are all natural causes of capitalism? And could socialism be the solution?
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The 2020 US Presidential elections was billed by many as the battle for the soul of America. The progressive left-wing, democratic party slugging out to defeat the right-wing, racist, xenophobic, conservative Republican party, led by the all-evil Donald Trump. Joe Biden’s win was celebrated as a victory for the progressives. But what if it’s all just a performance? What if I told you that The United States of America actually has TWO right-wing parties?
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Recently, YADIM Muslim Women's Council (MAYA) called out Feminine hygiene brand, Libresse, for misusing an image of a woman's “private part” on an ad design for its sanitary products. She said that the advertisement -- which has flowers shaped like vulvas -- "clearly undermines the dignity of women and violates the norms of decency in Malaysian society".
But does it really, though? Or do we as a society need to be more open about sex and our sexual organs? Sivananthi Thanenthiran of ARROW joins us to discuss.
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Political parties in Malaysia can be very confusing. Last week, we took a look at the parties in the Peninsula and unpacked their history and ideology. But what about our neighbours in the East? What are the likes of Warisan & GPS all about? And why do independent candidates stand a higher chance of winning in the East than the West? Political commentator Oh Ei Sun helps us unpack.
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Political parties in Malaysia can be very confusing. We have a lot of them, from UMNO to PAS to PKR to DAP to newer ones like AMANAH and Bersatu and newborns like MUDA and Pejuang. But what do we know about these parties besides the famous names at the helm? What do we know about their ideologies, particularly economically? Political Commentator Oh Ei Sun joins us to unpack the various mainstream political parties in Malaysia.
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We often hear things like “our economy is really bad” or “our economy is improving” but what even is Malaysia’s economy? How does it work? Do we lean to the left or right? How did we go from being the Asian Tiger once upon a time to where we are today?
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We often hear things like “our economy is really bad” or “our economy is improving” but what even is Malaysia’s economy? How does it work? Do we lean to the left or right? How did we go from being the Asian Tiger once upon a time to where we are today?
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There’s a saying that goes “absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Which means having power corrupts people, or lessens their morality, and the more power someone has, the more corrupted they will become. But how true is this? Dr Karim Bettache joins us to discuss.
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Edward Sapir and Benjamin Lee Whorf once hypothesized that language influences thought rather than the reverse. The Sapir–Whorf hypothesis claims that people from different cultures think differently because of differences in their languages. But does that theory still hold weight? Dr Sharifah Ayeshah joins us to discuss how language shapes thought.
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We’re all familiar with the Boy Who Lived, Harry Potter. The books, films and world that author J.K. Rowling built became a global phenomenon. So in light of the 10th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, we explore how exactly this franchise shaped culture for an entire generation.
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We’re all familiar with the Boy Who Lived, Harry Potter. The books, films and world that author J.K. Rowling built became a global phenomenon. So in light of the 10th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, we explore how exactly this franchise shaped culture for an entire generation.
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Recently, a Bloomberg columnist claimed that Malaysia is staggering down the road to “Failed Statehood.” But what does a “Failed state” actually mean? And are we on the way to becoming one? Dr Bridget Welsh joins us to discuss.
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Following the end of World War 2 up until the 60s, three dozen new states in Asia and Africa achieved autonomy and independence from their European colonial rulers. Many consider this as the end of European Colonialism. But is that really true? Or are we still colonised today… only in different ways?
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Left wing, right wing, centrists and moderates. We’ve heard these terms before, but what do they even mean? And can they be applied to political landscapes across the globe? Assistant Professor Peter Beattie, lecturer in Global Political Economy, joins us to explain.
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A few days ago, US President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act and declared that every year moving forward, June the 19th will be a federal holiday. But what exactly is Juneteenth and why is it important, particularly to the African American community? Dr Mohan Ambikaipaker, Associate Professor in Critical Race Theory & Postcolonial Studies, joins us to discuss.
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We’re told since young, that there are certain words that should not be used. Swear words. Yet, we use it all the time, not only angrily to our biggest enemies, but also casually to acquaintances, our best friends and even to/with our significant other.
But why exactly do we swear? And why do we love it so much?
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Patriarchy. You might have heard your feminist friend talk about how we need to destroy it. But what exactly does patriarchy mean? And why is it bad for us -- all of us, both men and women. Sharon Bong, who’s an Associate Professor of Gender Studies, joins us to discuss.
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It is commonly said that extroverts are great at communication, while introverts are simply anti-social. But is this actually true? Are one's social skills directly tied to introversion and extroversion, or is that an oversimplification? Assistant Prof in Psychology, Dr Eugene Tee, joins us to bust the myth of the boring introvert.
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We’ve heard these ideological terms and we’ve seen them weaponised by politicians (think Trump labelling the likes of AOC and Bernie Sanders as “communists,” whenever they come up with an economically progressive idea). But what do these terms actually mean? On this episode of ‘Today I Learned,’ Asst Prof Peter Beattie joins us to discuss.
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We’ve heard these ideological terms and we’ve seen them weaponised by politicians (think Trump labelling the likes of AOC and Bernie Sanders as “communists,” whenever they come up with an economically progressive idea). But what do these terms actually mean? On this episode of ‘Today I Learned,’ Asst Prof Peter Beattie joins us to discuss.
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It was reported earlier this year that fighting the COVID-19 pandemic has brought our global debt total to an all-time high of $281 trillion at the end of 2020. We've seen these types of reports in the past, which always leaves many of us scratching our heads. How can our whole world be in debt? Who are we in debt to? Martians? A top secret bank run by Goblins?
On this episode of Today I Learned, Economist Geoffrey Williams joins us to break it all down.
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You would think that after thousands of years, human beings would find more complex reasons to hate each other than race. Yet racism still prevails to this day. The question is… why are people racist? Is it biological or is it learned? On the second episode of Today I Learned, we speak to professor in social psychology and culture, Dr Karim Bettache on the psychology of racism.
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Feminism, according to Oxford, is the advocacy of equality of the sexes and the establishment of the political, social, and economic rights of the female sex. But in recent years, there seems to be a negative connotation to “feminism.” Not only do some actively push back against feminism, others, even some who support gender equality, do not like being labelled as a feminist. But why? On the first episode of Today I Learned, we explore feminism with Sivananthi Thanenthiran. What exactly is it? And why do some see it as a dirty word.
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