KUCHING: The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has decided to maintain the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) at 3 per cent at its meeting on Thursday (Sept 5).
In a statement, it stated that the global economy continues to expand amid resilient labour markets and continued recovery in global trade
Looking ahead, it said global growth is expected to be sustained by positive labour market conditions, moderating inflation and less restrictive monetary policy.
“Global trade recovery is expected to continue, supported by both electrical and electronics (E&E) as well as non-E&E products.
“The growth outlook remains subject to downside risks, mainly from further escalation of geopolitical tensions, volatility in global financial markets, and slower growth momentum in major economies.”
While stating that the Malaysian economy expanded by 5.1 per cent in the first half of 2024, it said that the latest indicators point towards sustained strength in economic activity driven by resilient domestic expenditure and higher export activity.
“Going forward, exports are expected to be further lifted by the global tech upcycle given Malaysia’s position in the semiconductor supply chain, as well as continued strength in non-E&E goods.
“Tourist spending is expected to continue to increase. Employment and wage growth, as well as policy measures, remaining supportive of household spending.”
The statement also noted that the robust expansion in investment activity would be sustained by the progress of multi-year projects in both the private and public sectors, the implementation of catalytic initiatives under the national master plans, as well as the higher realisation of approved investments.
“The higher intermediate and capital imports will further support export and investment activity. The growth outlook is subject to downside risks from lower-than-expected external demand and commodity production.
“Meanwhile, upside risks to growth mainly emanate from greater spillover from the tech upcycle, more robust tourism activity, and faster implementation of investment projects.”
Following this, it pointed out that the recent recovery in the ringgit is driven by the shift in expectations of lower interest rates in major economies, particularly the US, as well as Malaysia’s strong economic performance.
“Looking ahead, Malaysia’s positive economic prospects and domestic structural reforms, complemented by ongoing initiatives to encourage flows, will continue to provide enduring support to the ringgit.
“Therefore, at the current OPR level, the monetary policy stance remains supportive of the economy and is consistent with the current assessment of inflation and growth prospects.
“The MPC remains vigilant to ongoing developments to inform the assessment on the domestic inflation and growth trajectories going into 2025.
“The MPC will ensure that the monetary policy stance remains conducive to sustainable economic growth amid price stability,” it added.
