Kuala Lampur, Jan. 27 -- The recent strengthening of the ringgit should not be read merely through the familiar lenses of interest-rate differentials, portfolio inflows, or short-term market sentiment.

These factors matter, but they are insufficient to explain why Malaysia's currency is now perceived as structurally stronger and more resilient.

A deeper explanation lies in Malaysia's evolving role in the global rare earth supply chain - a role that is quietly reshaping how markets price Malaysia's economic future.

Rare earth elements are no longer obscure inputs known only to engineers and geologists. They are the backbone of the twenty-first-century economy.

Electric vehicles, wind turbines, semiconductors, advanced electronics, and ...