About

The Malaysianist cuts through the noise of Malaysian current affairs to focus on what actually matters: where the money flows and who holds the power.

Published several times a week, each edition is a mix of reporting, analysis, and commentary, covering politics, business, policy, and the forces shaping the country.

If you follow Malaysian news and find yourself wanting more depth than the headlines offer, this newsletter is built for you.

Who’s behind this

I’m Emmanuel Samarathisa. I’ve spent my career in newsrooms, editing and writing for The Malaysian Insider, Focus Malaysia, The Vibes and Tech in Asia.

I started The Malaysianist because I wanted to do the kind of journalism that doesn’t have to answer to advertisers, tycoons, or political interests.

This is a one-person operation. I research, write, edit, and publish every issue.

Subscriptions are what keep the lights on and the coverage independent.

Why subscribe

The Malaysianist is entirely subscriber-funded. Every ringgit goes directly toward sustaining independent journalism on Malaysian affairs.

Here’s what that gets you:

No editorial interference. I own The Malaysianist outright. No company, politician, or benefactor has a say in what gets covered or how.

Signal over noise. Every story is chosen on editorial merit. If it’s in your inbox, it’s because it matters, not because someone paid for placement.

Depth you won’t find elsewhere. The focus is the intersection of money and power in Malaysia. Each issue goes beyond the news cycle to explain the structures, incentives, and players behind the story.

If Malaysia is on your radar, subscribe to The Malaysianist: