Sharp, essential news and analysis from Malaysia.
A leading economist has thrown support behind a hybrid sales and service tax combining elements of GST and SST, arguing that incorporating input tax credits would prevent harmful price cascading throughout supply chains.
Malaysia's ringgit is positioned to strengthen next week following the release of better-than-expected second-quarter GDP data showing 6% growth, driven by resilient domestic demand and robust export performance.
The Works Ministry has received 30 strategic wishlists from Malaysia's construction industry for Budget 2027, emphasizing digital transformation, infrastructure development and support for local contractors amid efforts to boost productivity and competitiveness.
Malaysia's Credit Guarantee Corporation has recognised 32 outstanding MSMEs and financial partners at its annual awards ceremony, while unveiling RM10 billion in new guarantee schemes designed to support approximately 12,100 small and medium enterprises nationwide.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has acknowledged widespread economic difficulties facing ordinary Malaysians and micro, small and medium enterprises, even as the country's second-quarter GDP growth exceeded analyst forecasts.
The Selangor State Development Corporation has dismissed claims of significant financial losses and accumulated debt as inaccurate, asserting its strong financial position is confirmed by an independent credit rating.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has committed to channelling all federal revenue received by the state back to citizens through development projects and assistance programmes, following Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's decision to increase interim special grant payments.
Malaysia's Academy in Industry programme is reshaping vocational training by linking disadvantaged youth with real workplace opportunities. Participants gain recognised diplomas while working, addressing critical skills shortages in automotive, food processing and manufacturing sectors.
A Royal Commission of Inquiry has warned that the government's RM88 billion guarantee to Tabung Haji depositors will be triggered if the pilgrimage board cannot execute its recovery and restructuring plan, potentially destabilising national finances.
Bank Negara Malaysia has flagged concerns that wage growth is lagging behind productivity gains, calling for a comprehensive review of the country's wage-setting mechanisms and measures to boost skilled job creation.
Malaysia's direct investment abroad has declined sharply to RM12.4 billion in 2025, the second lowest in two decades, raising concerns about whether local companies are becoming too reliant on the domestic market and losing competitive edge globally.
Malaysia is strengthening its Technical and Vocational Education and Training framework through accreditation reforms that link institutions directly with industry players, aiming to equip graduates with future-ready skills and boost employability.
Malaysia's Finance Ministry projects the federal government's statutory debt will remain below the 65% GDP threshold in 2026, reinforcing its commitment to fiscal discipline amid regional economic uncertainties.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has assured Malaysians that the country's energy sector faces no supply disruptions, despite escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. However, volatile global oil prices continue to pose economic challenges.