ISSUES is Penang Institute’s series of discussion e-briefs analysing policy-relevant matters relating to Penang, Malaysia and the region. Initiated on 15 June 2017, the articles are generally written by researchers attached to the Institute. They are meant to stimulate public interest in the subjects discussed and contribute substantively towards better-informed fact-based decision-making in Malaysia, both in the public sector and the private sector. Feedback is welcome and can be sent to issues@penanginstitute.org.