Malaysia–China Trade Talks: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says Malaysia is finalising steps to protect local MSMEs from foreign e-commerce competition, with Cabinet priorities ahead after discussions with China’s leadership and assurances from major firms like Alibaba. Digital Trade Push: Malaysia also showcased its tech push at the Global Digital Trade Expo, pitching itself as a digital bridge between ASEAN and China and highlighting AI, cloud, smart healthcare and cross-border e-commerce. Halal Industry Strategy: Malaysia’s religious affairs minister urged a shift from halal certification to halal “market-making,” focusing on branding, standards, distribution and scaling beyond domestic demand. Rail Connectivity Plan: Malaysia and China agreed to extend the East Coast Rail Link from Kota Bharu to Rantau Panjang in Kelantan, with further stakeholder talks before Cabinet review. Business Risk Watch: A new survey finds ransomware recoveries are getting harder, with fewer firms restoring most data and attackers increasingly targeting backup systems. SME Support in Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi extended its Tajer office-free licensing period by a year to cut upfront costs and boost entrepreneurship. North America Trade Warning: Canada’s business leaders warn that ongoing USMCA uncertainty could trigger a “capital chill” and weigh on investment. Local Business Impact: Rough seas are forcing charter cancellations along the Jersey Shore, hitting revenues during peak season.