Malaysia's freshest news, trending stories and local buzz.
Malaysia maintains sufficient rice reserves to cover six months of domestic consumption, Deputy Agriculture Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin told Parliament, comprising both strategic buffer stocks and commercial supplies managed to shield consumers from global volatility.
Malaysia has transformed into one of the world's top AI-related hardware exporters, capitalizing on geopolitical tensions and investment shifts. Growth forecasts now exceed regional peers, though political instability threatens to undermine the policy continuity driving the boom.
The Orange Economy Consortium and National TVET Council are partnering to deliver an intensive six-month training programme in AI-assisted filmmaking, positioning Malaysia's creative sector to compete globally while preserving cultural identity.
The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives is conducting a one to two-month nationwide stakeholder engagement to collect proposals from MSMEs and cooperatives for inclusion in the 2027 Budget submission.
Malaysia's economy is expected to maintain momentum through the remainder of 2026 following first-half growth of 5.6%, with government measures supporting oil supply stability and major international events boosting tourism and economic activity.
Tabung Haji has resolved RM12.6 billion in accumulated investment losses through its 2018 recovery and restructuring plan, with asset sales to a government vehicle and progressive recognition of remaining losses helping restore the pilgrimage fund's financial health.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has disclosed that the Malaysian government spends RM40 billion to RM45 billion annually on subsidies to shield citizens from escalating fuel prices and related costs.
Malaysia's unsubsidised fuel prices are climbing by 20 sen per litre starting July 30, driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East and concerns over global petroleum supply security.
Malaysia has achieved nearly RM5 billion in budget savings through expenditure control measures implemented by federal ministries and agencies since April 2026, Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong announced to the Senate.
Malaysia's government will prioritise raising worker incomes and tackling structural wage problems before broadening its tax base, Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah declared, pushing back against OECD calls for consumption tax reforms.
The National Fishermen's Association (NEKMAT) reported a profit exceeding RM25 million in 2025, more than doubling the previous year's RM11 million, reflecting improved operational efficiency and strengthened support for Malaysia's fishing communities.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has issued a one-month deadline for government ministries to process foreign worker applications in selected sectors, including the restaurant and hospitality industry, signalling renewed efforts to tackle persistent labour shortages.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has directed government ministries to resolve pending foreign worker applications within 30 days, with the food and beverage sector receiving priority attention amid growing labour shortages.
Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister Zahid has highlighted substantial economic benefits from hosting the Bahrain Grand Prix, including increased tourism and foreign investment opportunities for the nation.
The Ministry of Economy has spent 57.42 percent of its 2026 development allocation, placing it fourth among Malaysian ministries. Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir says the ministry aims to crack the top three by year-end while maintaining focus on improving citizens' quality of life.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has disclosed that the Federal Land Development Authority has accumulated nearly RM10 billion in losses stemming from systemic mismanagement and political interference, revealing the scale of challenges facing one of Malaysia's oldest rural development agencies.
Malaysia's Economy Ministry has projected RM58 billion in development expenditure for 2027, with three-fifths directed towards foundational infrastructure as the government seeks to sustain economic momentum and advance physical development nationwide.
The inaugural Road to MAHA Labuan 2026 has exceeded targets, drawing 30,837 visitors and generating nearly RM800,000 in sales within its first two days, demonstrating strong public interest in agriculture and agro-entrepreneurship.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has highlighted Malaysia's return to the Formula 1 calendar as evidence of the nation's capability to successfully host world-class sporting events, underscoring readiness for future major international gatherings.
Malaysia has jumped eight positions to rank 15th globally in the International Institute for Management Development's World Competitiveness Ranking, marking its strongest performance in over a decade and validating the government's MADANI Economy strategy.
Malaysia stands within striking distance of achieving high-income nation status, with GNI per capita reaching USD12,380 under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's administration, leaving a gap of less than USD2,000 to meet the 2027 World Bank threshold.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has outlined a vision for Penang to become a leading state in Bumiputera economic participation, announcing RM5 million in funding for semiconductor initiatives and calling for unified coordination among development agencies.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that Malaysia's internationally recognised halal certification system must be underpinned by strong domestic industry capabilities and strategic global partnerships to establish the nation as a leading halal hub.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has given the government one month to devise solutions for the acute foreign worker shortage affecting Malaysia's restaurant sector, signalling both urgency and caution on labour immigration.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has given government ministries and departments one month to streamline foreign worker hiring processes, particularly for restaurants facing acute labour shortages while maintaining controlled recruitment standards.
Malaysia's Academy in Industry programme is reshaping youth employment prospects by merging theoretical training with real workplace experience across digital, electrical, transport and agri-sectors, achieving an 88.7% employment rate.
Malaysia's rural development ministry is overhauling the decade-old Desa Lestari Programme to lift participating household incomes to RM2,300 monthly, marking a shift beyond cosmetic rebranding toward systemic structural reform.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim signals the government may release the Royal Commission of Inquiry's final report on Tabung Haji. The investigation examines systemic failures affecting thousands of Malaysian pilgrims' accumulated funds.
Malaysia's proposal to establish a national petroleum reserve responds to mounting geopolitical risks in critical shipping lanes, with analysts urging complementary strategies including supplier diversification and regional cooperation.
Malaysia's KUSKOP ministry has distributed nearly RM7 billion to more than 213,000 entrepreneurs during the first half of 2026 under its Power Up 10K scheme, halfway towards its RM15 billion annual target.
Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof warns that energy security and maritime security are now deeply interconnected, with distant geopolitical tensions affecting electricity prices, fuel supplies, and daily lives across the region.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has defended the government's fuel pricing stance, warning that further price cuts are impossible given the RM40 billion annual subsidy commitment already straining public finances.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has defended Malaysia's fuel pricing approach as fiscally responsible, warning that abandoning subsidies could saddle the nation with excessive debt and harm ordinary Malaysians.
TEKUN Nasional has distributed RM36 million to approximately 1,500 entrepreneurs in Negeri Sembilan as of June, part of a national distribution of RM540 million to 25,600 entrepreneurs, while the government pushes for faster loan approvals.
Permodalan Nasional Bhd has unveiled a new investment framework combining Islamic Maqasid al-Syariah principles with Environmental, Social and Governance standards, positioning Malaysia's Islamic finance sector as values-driven and socially responsible.
The Retirement Fund Incorporated's RM12.9 billion annual investment earnings cover only about 29% of Malaysia's RM45 billion pension obligations, highlighting a significant structural funding gap that requires urgent policy attention.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has signalled the MADANI Government may increase payments under the STR and SARA cash assistance schemes if Malaysia's economic trajectory permits, with the matter set for Budget consideration.
A prominent economist warns Malaysia's proposed petroleum reserve should not stand alone but form part of a comprehensive economic security framework addressing food security, critical minerals, semiconductors, and digital infrastructure.
Malaysia's Deputy Agriculture Minister has cautioned durian exporters against adopting unapproved methods for the Chinese market, emphasising that compliance with bilateral protocols is essential to safeguard nearly RM900 million in annual export revenues.
Malaysia's port operators stand to gain substantially from ongoing supply chain diversification and transhipment growth, while positioning the nation as a regional leader in sustainable maritime fuel adoption.
Malaysia's Alipay+ transaction volume surged 89.6% to RM824 million in 2025 as foreign visitors increasingly use digital wallets at local merchants, with continued momentum into 2026.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has highlighted Malaysia's second quarter GDP growth as evidence of economic resilience, crediting Putrajaya's three-year reform agenda for strengthening the nation's financial foundations.
Malaysia's economy expanded 5.8% in the second quarter, prompting Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to express gratitude for the performance. The growth reflects continued economic momentum ahead of potential policy adjustments.
Malaysia's economy expanded 5.8% in the second quarter of 2026, accelerating from 5.4% growth in the first quarter, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressing satisfaction over the improving trajectory.
Parliament has approved the National Trust Fund Bill 2026, establishing mandatory contributions and tighter controls over the RM22.43 billion fund. The legislation aims to secure inter-generational savings through statutory requirements and enhanced accountability.
Malaysia's SARA assistance programme has achieved near-universal uptake among 9 million monthly recipients, with RM3.45 billion spent locally so far. The initiative is expanding support and strengthening the country's social safety net.
An economist advises Malaysia to pursue a measured, cost-effective strategy for building petroleum reserves rather than mimicking large-scale models used by wealthy nations, emphasizing thorough risk assessment first.
Malaysia's government is leveraging the PAKW basic living expenditure framework to design location-specific policies addressing the widening gap between urban and rural costs of living, with state-level data revealing significant spending variations.
Malaysia's government maintains its Budget 2027 fiscal projections unchanged for now, despite higher oil prices pushing subsidy costs up by RM40 billion. The finance ministry is monitoring developments ahead of the October budget tabling.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has defended Malaysia's fuel pricing structure, stating that domestic petrol costs remain lower than those in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE despite claims of diminished competitiveness.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has ordered the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry and Economy Ministry to work with manufacturers struggling under global supply chain pressures, particularly in the plastics sector.
The National Economic Action Council has tasked MITI and the Economy Ministry with reviewing proposals from the Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association addressing raw material cost disparities and supply chain pressures affecting downstream manufacturers.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has pledged that Malaysia's TVET graduates will secure near-universal employment through closer alignment between educational institutions and industry demands, with job offers extended before course completion.
Malaysia maintains adequate rice supplies with a six-month buffer stock, Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir announced. The government has pledged to keep Local White Rice prices unchanged despite global economic pressures.
Malaysia's livestock and dairy sectors are achieving higher self-sufficiency levels through government incentive schemes, with beef production rising to 18.4% and milk output increasing significantly in 2025.
Malaysia's energy sector remains stable with no supply disruptions, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof confirmed. The government is actively monitoring regional tensions while Petronas and the Prime Minister work to secure long-term energy security.
Malaysia's federal government debt is projected to remain below the 65% GDP statutory ceiling in 2026, the Finance Ministry confirmed in parliament. The government is implementing cost-control measures while monitoring economic risks from global tensions.
MBSB Investment Bank has raised its 2026 GDP growth forecast to 4.5%, driven by robust export performance and domestic demand. Bank Negara is expected to keep interest rates steady at 2.75%.
The Malaysian Government is implementing sweeping governance reforms under PM Anwar Ibrahim to restore international confidence following the 1MDB scandal, including fiscal responsibility legislation and expanded auditor powers.
A former Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad employee has pleaded not guilty to charges of deceiving the major Malaysian palm oil producer through concealment of crude palm oil inventory status.
Malaysia has kept food prices stable despite Middle East conflict disrupting global supply chains by boosting agricultural subsidies, increasing diesel support to RM400 monthly, and doubling ploughing incentives. The strategy combines immediate relief with longer-term productivity improvements.
Malaysia's government is considering revising e-invoicing requirements and the mandatory 2% EPF contribution for foreign workers, following Barisan Nasional recommendations aimed at easing business compliance burdens.
CHGP has announced a RM455 million acquisition of strategically positioned freehold land within the KLCC precinct, signalling the developer's commitment to expanding its premium property portfolio in Malaysia's most sought-after commercial district.
The MADANI government is collaborating with Bank Negara Malaysia and financial institutions to reshape Malaysia's banking landscape through accessible credit products, elimination of ATM withdrawal fees, and targeted relief for businesses facing economic headwinds.
Malaysia's growing food waste problem is primarily driven by rising household incomes and lifestyle shifts away from basic needs, with urban and wealthier states generating significantly more waste than rural areas.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has praised FELDA settlers as the driving force behind seven decades of successful land development, celebrating their enduring contributions at the scheme's 70th anniversary in Pahang.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has warned the Federal Land Development Authority to learn from its troubled past and enforce disciplined management practices, as the state enterprise grapples with a RM980 million debt burden.
CIMB Treasury predicts Bank Negara Malaysia will keep the overnight policy rate unchanged at 2.75% this Thursday, citing moderating global oil prices and the BUDI Diesel programme as factors reducing near-term inflation pressures on the economy.
Malaysia's parliament has passed the Competition (Amendment) Bill 2026, introducing tougher penalties for cartels exploiting technology and strengthening the Malaysia Competition Commission's investigative powers.
Malaysia's ringgit is positioned for a significant recovery after a weak first half, with central bank measures to attract foreign-exchange inflows and robust economic fundamentals underpinning analyst forecasts of strength to 3.80-3.95 per dollar.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has stressed that Malaysia's rural economic agenda must evolve to match global development priorities, positioning rural communities for sustainable growth.
Malaysia's SAMENTA has called for financing agencies to release periodic reports detailing loan approvals and default rates to combat cronyism and political interference in MSME funding decisions.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has announced plans to overhaul Malaysia's foreign worker management system, emphasising the need for improved coordination and better alignment with industry requirements.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has highlighted the expanded reach and improved efficiency of government cash assistance schemes under the Madani reform agenda, with some eligible families now receiving up to RM1,800.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that the government maintains an inclusive approach to national development, ensuring no state is marginalised in growth initiatives as Johor emerges as a key investment hub.
Malaysia is strategically aligning the launch of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone master plan with a Malaysia-Singapore Leaders' Retreat in Q4 2024 to secure bilateral commitment and reinforce investor confidence in the region.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has rejected a top-down approach to developing Bumiputera entrepreneurs, urging successful business leaders to mentor newcomers instead of relying on theoretical models.
Malaysia's National Semiconductor Strategy has attracted over RM85 billion in approved investments by end-2025, with nearly 70 percent already realised. The initiative is building a skilled workforce and transforming factories through Industry 4.0 adoption.
Malaysia has opened applications for diesel subsidies under the SKDS programme, targeting micro and small business owners with company-registered jeeps and pickup trucks. Approved applicants will receive subsidies from mid-July.
The government has committed an additional RM10 million to support taxi drivers across Malaysia, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasizing their critical role as frontline workers who represent the nation to international visitors.
Malaysia's BUDI Diesel programme has benefited nearly 200,000 private diesel vehicle owners within its first three days of operation, with Treasury officials reporting a smooth implementation and minimal technical issues.
Malaysia's government is accelerating efforts to promote over RM5 billion in micro-financing opportunities through direct engagement with traders and small entrepreneurs, with multiple agencies coordinating outreach at local markets.
Malaysia's MADANI Taxi Reform Programme marks a significant shift in the taxi industry, enabling drivers to own vehicles outright rather than lease them. The initiative introduces the Proton S70 as the new official taxi model with modern features and digital revenue streams.
Hong Leong Investment Bank projects a bright outlook for Malaysia's power infrastructure sector, driven by a multi-year capital expenditure cycle expected to benefit listed grid-linked companies significantly.
The government is launching a 10% home purchase discount during the ASEAN Real Estate Conference 2026 in July, partnered with REHDA to ease the financial burden on homebuyers seeking to meet deposit requirements.
Malaysia's Communications Minister has instructed bank customers to report any continued charges of RM1 for interbank ATM withdrawals to Bank Negara Malaysia, as a new fee waiver took effect this week.
Small business operators across Johor are experiencing a notable surge in sales during the state election campaign, with food traders reporting doubled revenues as campaign activity brings increased foot traffic to their establishments.
The Malaysian government has distributed RM64 million in cash incentives to 4,025 private employers participating in the Progressive Wage Policy, directly benefiting 51,363 local workers through structured wage progression initiatives.
Malaysia's People's Income Initiative has supported 7,787 households over nearly three years, enabling some participants to earn more than RM2,000 monthly and escape the poverty cycle.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has confirmed that Malaysia's fuel subsidy bill is expected to reach RM40 billion in 2026, while assuring the nation that domestic petroleum supplies remain secure and adequate for the country's needs.
Malaysia's energy transition ministry will launch the NUR@PETRA Programme next month, offering RM200 rebates for energy-efficient appliances. The scheme targets 160,000 households with RM32 million in subsidies.
Malaysia's investment authorities have greenlit RM774.4 billion in manufacturing projects from 2020 to 2025, materialising 5,087 ventures that generated 416,914 employment opportunities, underscoring the nation's manufacturing resurgence.
Malaysia is executing 120 government decisions to counter global supply chain disruptions, with 27 fully implemented and 93 underway. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah told Parliament the crisis will persist for one to two years.
Malaysia faces a significant housing surplus with 32,800 completed residential units valued at RM16.37 billion remaining unsold as of Q1 2024. The unsold inventory spans both affordable and premium segments, signalling systemic market imbalances.
Malaysian lawmakers are set to scrutinise the impact of West Asian geopolitical tensions on international visitor numbers and security vulnerabilities in key border regions during today's parliamentary session.
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Malaysia's Housing and Local Government Minister launched a national recycling campaign in Bukit Bintang, targeting the country's 15.2 million tonnes of annual waste. The initiative seeks to transform recycling into a daily habit, reducing dependence on raw materials and strengthening economic resilience amid global supply chain uncertainties.
Malaysian banks navigate conflicting headwinds in the second half of 2026 as geopolitical tensions ease but the US Federal Reserve maintains a hawkish stance. Analysts warn of margin pressures and potential credit quality deterioration, though current buffers remain adequate.
Malaysia's BUDI Diesel subsidy scheme has attracted more than 18,000 applications for additional fuel allowances in its first two days, with over 40,000 transactions completed without technical hitches, according to Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.
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Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced plans for the government to develop affordable housing projects nationwide specifically for civil servants, addressing longstanding affordability challenges in the public sector workforce.
Malaysia's Cabinet will convene a specialized committee next week to address mounting challenges in foreign labour management, particularly in the food and beverage sector, reflecting growing pressure from industries facing severe staffing shortages.
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Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has ordered the Housing and Local Government Ministry to accelerate and harmonise approval processes at local authorities nationwide, citing inconsistencies that delay housing and industrial projects.