Round-the-clock breaking news from Malaysia.
Malaysia's economy expanded 5.8% in the second quarter of 2026, exceeding forecasts and demonstrating the success of the Madani Economic Framework. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that while this growth showcases the nation's economic strength, continuous reforms are vital.
MBSB Bank and the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority have signed an agreement to make available up to RM1 billion in financing for small and medium enterprises operating within the Northern Corridor Economic Region, spanning Perlis, Kedah, Penang and Perak.
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Malaysia's Halal Home Grown Champion programme has catalysed RM187.91 million in potential sales across 313 halal firms through 2026, supporting Bumiputera and women-owned enterprises as the country strengthens its global halal industry leadership.
Nobel Prize-winning economist Christopher Pissarides challenges optimistic predictions about AI's growth potential, warning that rapid productivity gains may be permanently lost and that many sectors remain unaffected by the technology.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has underscored the pivotal role of micro, small and medium enterprises in Malaysia's economic landscape, revealing they represent 97 per cent of all business activity while contributing roughly half of GDP.
Selangor's gross domestic product reached RM460.1 billion in 2025, with the state now accounting for 26.5% of Malaysia's total economic output. The growth exceeded national averages and surpassed expert forecasts.
Malaysia's Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development is intensifying efforts to help small businesses and cooperatives capitalise on robust growth in the wholesale and retail sector.
Housing Minister Nga Kor Ming emphasises that maintaining consistent policy direction under the MADANI framework is vital for Malaysia to achieve lasting economic transformation and sustain investor confidence in the region.