The nation seems fixated on day-to-day high cost of living and the political drama played out in the media daily. August was dominated by the Permatang Pauh by-election, held on August 26.

Investors also looked nervously toward Bank Negara, expecting a change in overnight policy rates to keep inflationary pressures under control. Insisting that they are, Bank Negara decided to maintain the rates. Good news for the man-in-the-street but it makes analysts jittery.

The Budget tabled on August 29 was hoped to be a panacea to boost the economy. While it did address many issues related to the lower income group, the Budget fell short of industry expectations: the wish list was long and only a few were granted. Is it adequate to prepare Malaysia for tough times ahead?

The political drama continues in September. The Opposition promises a change of government on September 16, Malaysia Day – when Malaya, Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore first merged into Malaysia. Obviously, the ruling government will not take it sitting down.

When two elephants fight, the grass gets trampled. And how will that help anyone?