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#malaysia-economy

66 stories tagged

Malaysia to Boost SARA Welfare Payments, PM Anwar Confirms

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has pledged to increase the SARA basic assistance programme in the near term to help Malaysians cope with mounting living expenses, following consultations with the public and Treasury officials.

By Khairul Anuar · 22 Jul 2026 · 3 min read

Parliament Passes KWAN and Statistics Bills to Modernise Malaysia's Governance Framework

Malaysia's parliament has passed two landmark bills aimed at strengthening the country's institutional framework. The KWAN bill safeguards intergenerational savings with stricter withdrawal rules, while the Statistics bill replaces 61-year-old legislation with modern international standards.

By Khairul Anuar · 21 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Energy and Maritime Security Inextricably Linked, Says Fadillah

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof warns that energy security and maritime stability are now inseparable issues with profound implications for Malaysia and the global economy.

By Khairul Anuar · 21 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Cabinet Open to Boosting STR and SARA Payouts if Economy Strengthens, Says PM Anwar

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has indicated the MADANI Government may raise payments under the STR and SARA assistance programmes during the next Budget cycle, contingent on Malaysia's economic trajectory improving.

By Khairul Anuar · 19 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia Must Brace for Economic Fallout From Hormuz Strait Tensions, Says Akmal Nasrullah

Malaysia's Economy Minister has warned that complacency over the Strait of Hormuz closure could prove costly, cautioning that prolonged regional tensions will ripple through global supply chains affecting local businesses and consumers.

By Khairul Anuar · 15 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia To Balance Foreign Worker Needs With Local Employment Priority, Anwar Says

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has pledged that Malaysia will continue examining the need for foreign workers through proper channels while giving job priority to locals. The government aims to strengthen enforcement against illegal workers and tighten approval processes for foreign professionals.

By Khairul Anuar · 14 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Anwar Directs MITI and Economy Ministry to Support Manufacturers Amid Global Supply Disruptions

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has instructed MITI and the Economy Ministry to work with manufacturers struggling under global supply chain pressures, with particular focus on the plastics industry that underpins food packaging, electronics, and automotive sectors.

By Khairul Anuar · 13 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's Rice Stocks Secure for Six Months, Government Pledges Price Stability

Malaysia's rice supply remains secure with sufficient buffer stocks to meet domestic demand for six months, Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir confirmed. The government has pledged to maintain Local White Rice prices without increases.

By Khairul Anuar · 13 Jul 2026 · 3 min read

Parliament Passes Competition Amendment Bill to Combat Digital-Era Cartels

Malaysia's Dewan Rakyat has passed the Competition (Amendment) Bill 2026, introducing stronger penalties for cartel activities and data obstruction in investigations by the Malaysia Competition Commission.

By Khairul Anuar · 13 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's Energy Supply Secure Amid Strait of Hormuz Tensions, Says DPM Fadillah

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has assured Malaysians that the country's energy supply remains stable despite escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, with Petronas and the government implementing proactive diplomatic measures.

By Khairul Anuar · 12 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Cabinet to Review E-Invoicing and Mandatory EPF Contribution for Foreign Workers

The Cabinet has acknowledged Barisan Nasional's business-focused proposals, signalling a potential review of e-invoicing systems and mandatory 2% EPF contributions affecting foreign workers.

By Khairul Anuar · 12 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's Economy Set for Stronger 2026 as MBSB IB Lifts GDP Forecast to 4.5%

Malaysian investment banks have upgraded their economic growth forecasts for 2026, with MBSB IB projecting 4.5% GDP expansion. The stronger outlook is expected to keep the central bank's benchmark interest rate steady at 2.75% throughout the year.

By Khairul Anuar · 9 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's Rising Food Waste Problem Tied to Prosperity and Changing Habits, Says Chief Statistician

Malaysia's household food waste is strongly connected to income growth and lifestyle changes, with wealthier urban areas discarding significantly more food than rural communities, according to outgoing Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin.

By Khairul Anuar · 8 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

MADANI Government Deepens Collaboration With BNM and Banking Sector to Fortify Financial Stability

The MADANI government is intensifying coordination with Bank Negara Malaysia and financial institutions to maintain a resilient, inclusive financial system. New banking initiatives include affordable credit cards and fee-free ATM withdrawals.

By Khairul Anuar · 8 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Malaysia Seizes Over 75,000 Crypto Mining Machines in Three-Year Crackdown

Malaysia's Home Ministry has dismantled an illegal crypto mining network spanning over 3,000 operations nationwide, confiscating more than 75,000 machines and detaining 629 suspects between 2022 and May 2024.

By Khairul Anuar · 8 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Government to Address Petrol Station Operators' Losses During Fuel Subsidy Transition

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has committed to investigating allegations that petrol station operators sustained significant losses during the implementation of Malaysia's targeted fuel subsidy programme, instructing the Second Finance Minister to gather details from oil companies.

By Khairul Anuar · 7 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia Overhauls Foreign Worker Approval System, Ditches Case-by-Case Model

Malaysia's Human Resources Ministry has fully transitioned to an automated eQuota system for foreign worker approvals, eliminating the previous case-by-case review process that created bottlenecks for employers seeking manpower.

By Khairul Anuar · 7 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Ringgit poised for strong recovery as Bank Negara intensifies capital inflow measures

The ringgit is positioned for a significant rebound following June's weakness, with Bank Negara Malaysia's push to attract foreign-exchange inflows and robust trade performance underpinning recovery expectations through year-end.

By Khairul Anuar · 6 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia Waives RM1 Interbank ATM Fee From July 1 to Support Rural Access

Malaysia's Finance Ministry and banking sector have jointly agreed to eliminate the RM1 fee for interbank ATM and SRM cash withdrawals from July 1, addressing financial hardship in underserved areas.

By Khairul Anuar · 6 Jul 2026 · 3 min read

PM Anwar Launches SParK 2026 Platform as PUNB Pledges RM2.25 Billion for Bumiputera Business Growth

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has officiated the launch of SParK 2026, PUNB's business transformation platform, with plans to disburse RM2.25 billion in financing approvals for bumiputera entrepreneurs over the next five years.

By Khairul Anuar · 5 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Malaysia's Unemployment Falls to 2.9% as Skills Training Drives Job Creation

Malaysia's unemployment rate declined to 2.9 per cent last year from 3.2 per cent in 2024, according to Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamid, who attributes the improvement to expanded vocational training and skills development initiatives.

By Khairul Anuar · 2 Jul 2026 · 3 min read

Lim Guan Eng calls on PM Anwar to address Penang's RM2.8 billion funding gap and reform allocation system

DAP national adviser Lim Guan Eng has called on Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to repay Penang RM2.8 billion in alleged funding shortfalls and reform the federal state allocation system to ensure equitable distribution.

By Khairul Anuar · 1 Jul 2026 · 3 min read

Over 32,000 Completed Homes Worth RM16.37 Billion Sit Empty as Housing Supply-Demand Imbalance Deepens

Malaysia's housing market is struggling with 32,800 completed residential units worth RM16.37 billion remaining unsold as of Q1 2024, signalling structural problems across all price segments, not just affordable housing.

By Khairul Anuar · 29 Jun 2026 · 6 min read

25,000 Malaysians to Gain Skills Through New Bakat MADANI Programme

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has launched Bakat MADANI, a national talent development initiative that will benefit 25,000 people through skills training and job placement in high-growth sectors, with backing from government-linked companies and Petronas.

By Khairul Anuar · 29 Jun 2026 · 5 min read

Government Strengthens Push to Help MSMEs Tap Retail and Wholesale Growth

The Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development is intensifying efforts to help Malaysian micro, small and medium enterprises capitalize on rapid growth in the wholesale and retail sector, which recorded RM175 billion in sales in April 2026.

By Khairul Anuar · 29 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia to capitalise on drone sector growth with regulatory framework and industry partnerships, says PM Anwar

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has committed to supporting Malaysia's drone sector through enhanced regulatory frameworks, research initiatives and closer partnerships between government and industry players.

By Lim Wei Jie · 27 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia to Roll Out Affordable Housing Estates for Civil Servants Across the Country

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has unveiled plans for nationwide affordable housing initiatives aimed at civil servants, signalling the government's commitment to addressing the country's housing affordability challenges.

By Lim Wei Jie · 26 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Cabinet to tackle foreign worker challenges as Zahid leads Putrajaya committee

Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Hamidi will lead a Cabinet Committee meeting in Putrajaya next week to address mounting concerns over foreign worker management, particularly in Malaysia's hospitality and food service industries.

By Khairul Anuar · 26 Jun 2026 · 3 min read

Zahid to Lead Cabinet Committee Tackling Foreign Worker Crisis Next Week

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi will chair a Cabinet committee meeting next week to tackle foreign worker challenges affecting Malaysia's food and beverage sector and wider economy.

By Khairul Anuar · 26 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Cabinet to Address Foreign Workers Crisis Next Week Under Ahmad Zahid's Leadership

Malaysia's Cabinet will hold a committee meeting next week chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to address pressing foreign worker issues affecting multiple industries, particularly the food and beverage sector.

By Lim Wei Jie · 26 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Anwar Directs Overhaul of Local Authority Approvals to Strengthen Malaysia's Economic Edge

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has instructed all local authorities to streamline approval and bureaucratic procedures to enhance Malaysia's competitive standing and accelerate business licensing and development projects.

By Khairul Anuar · 26 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Government Must Show Value in Overseas Trips While Public Healthcare Struggles With Staff Exodus

The government faces mounting pressure to justify overseas travel expenses as healthcare workers continue leaving public hospitals amid concerns over pay, workload and working conditions, raising questions about budgetary priorities.

By Khairul Anuar · 26 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

PAAB Celebrates Two Decades Reshaping Malaysia's Water Sector While Tackling Rising Non-Revenue Water Crisis

Pengurusan Aset Air Berhad (PAAB) celebrates 20 years of steering Malaysia's water sector transformation, having channelled RM46.88 billion into infrastructure. Yet Deputy PM warns that tackling non-revenue water losses requires immediate action beyond 2050 timelines.

By Lim Wei Jie · 26 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's Labour Market Shows Resilience as Job Losses Decline, Economy Minister Reports

Malaysia's labour market has demonstrated continued stability through the first half of 2026, with job losses declining 20 per cent in June and unemployment remaining well below the full employment threshold, according to Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah.

By Lim Wei Jie · 25 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's KUSKOP Unveils 2030 Plan to Boost Local Digital Entrepreneurs Against Foreign Competition

Malaysia's entrepreneurship ministry has unveiled a comprehensive 2030 strategy to enhance the competitiveness of local MSMEs in digital markets, introducing platforms and partnerships to counter foreign sellers' cost advantages.

By Lim Wei Jie · 24 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Finance Ministry Open to Adjusting BUDI Diesel Programme Based on Usage Data

Malaysia's Finance Ministry is prepared to review the BUDI MADANI Diesel subsidy scheme based on real-world usage data, following early implementation feedback from users across the country.

By Lim Wei Jie · 24 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's Competitiveness Gain Underscores Civil Service Reforms, Anwar Says

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has attributed Malaysia's improved standing in international competitiveness rankings to enhanced efficiency within the civil service, signalling the government's commitment to institutional modernisation.

By Khairul Anuar · 24 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia leaps to 15th in global competitiveness ranking, Anwar credits civil service reform

Malaysia has surged eight positions in the IMD World Competitiveness Index 2026, climbing from 23rd to 15th place. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted the country's civil service transformation as a key driver of the improvement.

By Khairul Anuar · 24 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's Civil Service Credited for Boost in Global Competitiveness Rankings

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has credited Malaysia's civil service with driving the nation's improved performance in the 2026 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, highlighting bureaucratic efficiency as key to regional economic standing.

By Khairul Anuar · 24 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's Competitiveness Surge Credited to Civil Service Excellence, Says PM Anwar

Malaysia has climbed eight places to rank 15th globally in the IMD World Competitiveness Index 2026. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim attributes the improvement to the dedication and efficiency of the nation's civil service rather than individual leadership.

By Lim Wei Jie · 24 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Policy Consistency Vital to Sustaining Malaysia's Economic Transformation, Says Nga

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has stressed that maintaining policy continuity under the MADANI framework is essential for Malaysia to achieve lasting economic transformation and attract continued foreign investment.

By Lim Wei Jie · 24 Jun 2026 · 5 min read

Diesel Price Cut to RM2.10 Per Litre Expected to Ease Supply Chain Pressures Across Malaysia

Malaysia's diesel price reduction to RM2.10 per litre from July is forecast to lower transportation and logistics costs, potentially easing price pressures on consumer goods. Economists stress the need for sustained subsidy funding and effective implementation.

By Lim Wei Jie · 24 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia Maintains BUDI95 Fuel Subsidy at 200 Litres as Government Awaits West Asia Developments

Malaysia will maintain its BUDI95 fuel subsidy quota at 200 litres monthly while monitoring Middle East geopolitical developments and their effect on international crude oil markets before reconsidering restoration to 300 litres.

By Lim Wei Jie · 23 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Political Uncertainty Not Deterring Foreign Investment Flow Into Malaysia, Says MITI

Malaysia's trade ministry says foreign investors are not primarily swayed by election speculation or political chatter, though political stability remains a key consideration when choosing where to deploy capital.

By Khairul Anuar · 23 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Economic Revival Takes Centre Stage at PM's Gathering of State Leaders

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim convened the 149th meeting of state chief executives to chart strategies for revitalising Malaysia's economy as geopolitical tensions create international headwinds.

By Khairul Anuar · 23 Jun 2026 · 3 min read

Economic Revival Takes Centre Stage as Anwar Chairs National Menteris Besar Meeting

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim convened the 149th Meeting of Menteris Besar and Chief Ministers to address economic revival strategies, El Niño preparedness, and integrated policy implementation across federal and state governments.

By Khairul Anuar · 23 Jun 2026 · 3 min read

KESUMA Charts Path to Support Workers Hit by Supply Chain Disruptions

Malaysia's Human Resources Ministry will provide upskilling and reskilling programmes through TVET to support workers displaced by global supply chain disruptions, with job matching assistance through PERKESO's MYFutureJobs platform.

By Lim Wei Jie · 23 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia Develops Import Ban Mechanism to Combat Forced Labour

Malaysia is creating a mechanism to block imports produced through forced labour, establishing an inter-agency task force to strengthen trade compliance. The move comes as the US investigates 60 countries for lax enforcement, with Malaysia facing potential 10% tariffs.

By Lim Wei Jie · 23 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia Shifts to Impact-Driven Research to Boost University Commercialisation

Malaysia's Ministry of Higher Education is reorienting research priorities toward commercial outcomes, moving away from academic publication metrics. Over three years, 200 university products have been commercialised and 286 technologies licensed to industry.

By Lim Wei Jie · 22 Jun 2026 · 5 min read

Bangladesh PM Invites Malaysian Investors to Tap Emerging Economic Opportunities

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has encouraged Malaysian investors to seize opportunities in the country's strengthening business environment, signalling renewed openness to foreign capital and cross-border economic partnership.

By Lim Wei Jie · 22 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's Mental Health Crisis Could Cost Economy RM25.3 Billion by 2030, Parliament Warned

Parliament has been warned that Malaysia's mental health crisis could impose an economic burden of RM25.3 billion by 2030 without urgent intervention, as depression rates among adults have doubled since 2019.

By Rajesh Kumar · 22 Jun 2026 · 5 min read

Malaysia to crack down on worker exploitation as Anwar pledges stronger protections for Bangladeshi migrants

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has committed to eliminating the exploitation of Bangladeshi migrant workers, recognizing their essential contribution to Malaysia's economic foundation and pledging stronger protections.

By Khairul Anuar · 22 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Diesel Price Cut to RM2.10 Per Litre Brings Relief to Malaysian Workers and Small Businesses

Malaysia will reduce subsidised diesel to RM2.10 per litre from July 2026, extending the BUDI95 subsidy programme nationwide. MyKad verification will determine eligibility, bringing relief to transport-dependent workers and small businesses across the country.

By Lim Wei Jie · 21 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia to Cap Subsidised Diesel at RM2.10 per Litre from July 2026

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced that Malaysia will reduce subsidised diesel prices to RM2.10 per litre beginning July 2026, implementing a targeted subsidy programme using MyKad verification similar to the BUDI95 RON95 scheme.

By Lim Wei Jie · 21 Jun 2026 · 3 min read

Malaysia's Inflation Path Stable Yet Exposed to Global Shocks

Malaysia's inflation outlook appears manageable over the coming months, though economists warn the nation remains structurally vulnerable to external commodity price swings and currency volatility that could rapidly shift price pressures.

By Lim Wei Jie · 21 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

RM9.8 Billion Microfinance Push Targets Small Traders Across Malaysia

Malaysia is channelling RM9.8 billion through six major financial institutions to expand microfinance availability for small traders and hawkers, part of a grassroots initiative to ensure inclusive economic growth.

By Lim Wei Jie · 21 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Petronas expansion in Turkmenistan strengthens Malaysia's global energy footprint

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says Petronas' expanded operations in Turkmenistan provide Malaysia access to substantial gas reserves and elevate the nation's influence in international energy markets.

By Lim Wei Jie · 21 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's RM2.77 Billion Housing Puzzle: Why Thousands of Completed Homes Sit Empty

National Property Information Centre data shows 14,201 completed residential units valued at RM2.77 billion remain unsold, revealing a fundamental mismatch between developer supply strategies and household purchasing capacity across Malaysia.

By Lim Wei Jie · 20 Jun 2026 · 3 min read

Malaysia Pivots to High-Tech Economy as Anwar Charts Course on Semiconductors and AI

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has signalled Malaysia's transition toward a technology-centric economy, prioritising semiconductors, innovation, and artificial intelligence as engines for future growth.

By Lim Wei Jie · 20 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Telekom Malaysia Pledges RM500,000 to Support Media Practitioners Through Tabung Kasih@HAWANA

Telekom Malaysia has become strategic partner of Tabung Kasih@HAWANA, pledging RM500,000 to assist media practitioners. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil urged other corporations to support local media amid declining advertising revenues.

By Lim Wei Jie · 20 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia Secures Decades of Energy Supply Through Russia and Turkmenistan Partnerships

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced strategic energy partnerships with Russia and Turkmenistan, securing Malaysia's oil and gas supplies for at least two decades and opening export opportunities to major Asian economies.

By Lim Wei Jie · 20 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia's Balanced Diplomacy Attracts Investment, Says PM Anwar

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim underscores how Malaysia's neutral stance and willingness to engage with all major powers cultivates investor confidence and supports the country's economic expansion agenda.

By Lim Wei Jie · 20 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Free World Cup Broadcasts Ease Financial Burden for Malaysian Businesses and Consumers

Malaysia's decision to broadcast the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free through RTM and Unifi TV is providing substantial financial relief to food business operators and consumers, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil confirmed during a visit to Butterworth.

By Nur Atiqah · 20 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

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