(Day 1) Link here

(Day 2) Link here

This year’s theme is on the fate of liberal democracy in Malaysia in these turbulent times, focussing on the political, economic, and social aspects. During times of crisis or great public uncertainty, it is fashionable to assume that authoritarian states are in a stronger position than liberal democracies with regards to their ability to react. However, as evidenced by the effective responses demonstrated by liberal democracies, such as New Zealand and Taiwan, it is clear that open societies have proven just as resilient during times of turbulence. Malaysia asserts more government control and one-way policies to handle the pandemic which seems ineffective. Is openness the key to navigating our health & political crisis?