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KUALA LUMPUR: Kalangan ahli ekonomi yakin Keluaran Dalam Negara Kasar (KDNK) Malaysia bagi suku kedua 2024 akan berkembang pada 5.8 peratus berbanding 4.2 peratus pada suku pertama tahun ini.

Mereka berpendapat, pertumbuhan KDNK akan dirangsang oleh aktiviti perindustrian yang rancak, harga minyak sawit mentah lebih tinggi, pengangguran yang berkurangan dan peningkatan perbelanjaan.

Ahli ekonomi turut bersetuju ekonomi berada dalam kedudukan baik untuk berkembang antara 4.0 dan 5.0 peratus bagi keseluruhan 2024, dengan badan perakaunan memaklumkan, keyakinan global terhadap Malaysia meningkat dengan ketara berikutan telah mempamerkan daya tahan ekonomi yang jelas.

Ketua Ahli Ekonomi Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd, Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid, berkata pertumbuhan KDNK suku kedua 2024 akan sejajar dengan unjuran awal Jabatan Perangkaan Malaysia (DOSM) sebanyak 5.8 peratus.

Bercakap kepada Bernama, beliau berkata momentum pertumbuhan ekonomi akan berterusan sehingga suku kedua 2024, mengatasi pertumbuhan suku pertama 4.2 peratus.

Mohd Afzanizam berkata, data semasa menunjukkan ekonomi Malaysia dijangka berkembang baik pada Jun.

Beliau menekankan bahawa negara mencatat pertumbuhan lebih tinggi dalam indeks volum perkhidmatan dan indeks pengeluaran perindustrian, masing-masing meningkat 6.7 peratus dan 4.5 peratus, pada suku kedua 2024.

Beliau berkata, pengeluaran minyak sawit mentah naik dua angka kepada 15.9 peratus berbanding 3.4 peratus sebelum ini, menunjukkan peningkatan pendapatan eksport daripada sumber pendapatan komoditi bukan minyak utama negara.

Selain itu, Mohd Afzanizam berkata kadar pengangguran kekal pada 3.3 peratus untuk tiga suku berturut-turut, tetapi jumlah pengangguran susut kepada 557,800 pada suku kedua 2024 daripada 561,100 pada suku pertama 2024.

“Sehubungan itu, pasaran pekerjaan Malaysia mungkin telah mencapai status pekerjaan penuh, menandakan terdapat banyak pekerjaan boleh diisi dan lebih ramai rakyat mempunyai pekerjaan dan meraih pendapatan.

“Pengenalan akaun pengeluaran fleksibel oleh Kumpulan Wang Simpanan Pekerja (KWSP), di samping program pemindahan tunai, akan memungkinkan trajektori pertumbuhan yang lebih tinggi dalam tempoh terdekat.

“Sehubungan itu, KDNK suku kedua 2024 sewajarnya lebih tinggi berbanding suku sebelumnya,” kata beliau.

Professor of Practice dan Pengarah Pusat Penyelidikan Perbankan Pusat di Asia School of Business, Ozer Karagedikli senada dengan Mohd Afzanizam, sambil menyatakan KDNK yang diunjur berkembang 5.8 peratus, mendorong keyakinan terhadap keteguhan ekonomi negara.

Karagedikli berkata, Malaysia mempunyai potensi ekonomi yang besar, justeru kadar pertumbuhan antara 4.0 dan 5.5 peratus mungkin boleh dicapai.

Beliau berkata, memandangkan julat berkenaan adalah luas, keadaan sedemikian adalah rumit berikutan untuk mencapai pertumbuhan konsisten hampir enam peratus dijangkakan mencabar.

“Ia tidak semudah itu memandangkan untuk mencapai kadar pertumbuhan yang konsisten hampir 6.0 peratus tahun demi tahun adalah munasabah, tetapi mungkin berdepan cabaran, tanpa pembaharuan ketara untuk meningkatkan produktiviti dan daya saing ekonomi,” katanya.

Sementara itu, Kaji Selidik Situasi Ekonomi Global oleh Persatuan Akauntan Bertauliah Berkanun (ACCA) dan Institut Akauntan Pengurusan mendapati keyakinan akauntan dan profesional kewangan global meningkat terhadap ekonomi Malaysia, terutama bagi suku kedua 2024.

ACCA dalam kenyataan berkata, rantau Asia Pasifik, termasuk Malaysia, telah menunjukkan daya tahan yang ketara, memberikan gambaran lebih jelas mengenai hala tuju aliran ekonomi serantau dan keutamaan risiko.

“Malaysia, sebagai sebahagian daripada rantau Asia Pasifik, telah mencerminkan arah aliran positif ini. Sektor pembuatan negara telah menyaksikan peningkatan yang ketara, didorong oleh peningkatan permintaan global dan kemajuan teknologi,” katanya.

Menurutnya, tinjauan itu mendapati inisiatif kerajaan Malaysia baru-baru ini untuk merangsang ekonomi digital dan meningkatkan infrastruktur terus menyokong pertumbuhan itu.

“Dasar utama seperti Aspirasi Pelaburan Nasional dan Pelan Tindakan Ekonomi Digital Malaysia telah memainkan peranan penting dalam memacu daya tahan ekonomi,” katanya.

Ketua Ahli Ekonomi Global Juwai IQI Shan Saeed turut mengunjurkan KDNK bergerak antara 4.0 hingga 4.5 peratus pada suku kedua 2024, didorong oleh pertumbuhan ekonomi Malaysia yang kukuh secara keseluruhan, dalam keadaan ketidaktentuan ekonomi global, risiko geopolitik dan kejatuhan pasaran ekuiti di barat.

Beliau berkata, ekonomi global yang tidak menentu telah menyebabkan ekonomi Malaysia kekal sebagai penerima manfaat dan terus menarik pelaburan berikutan pelabur akan berpindah ke negara yang mempunyai pelaburan infrastruktur yang kukuh.

“Penggunaan dan pelaburan (antara petunjuk KDNK) dijangka teguh, sekali gus memperkukuh kestabilan ekonomi. Sementara itu, ketibaan pelancong,teknologi litar bersepadu (ICT), dan eksport komoditi memberi isyarat positif kepada pasaran,” katanya.

Pada 19 Julai, DOSM mengumumkan ekonomi Malaysia diunjurkan berkembang 5.8 peratus pada suku kedua 2024, meningkat daripada 4.2 peratus pada suku sebelumnya serta pertumbuhan tertinggi sejak suku keempat 2022 yang mencatatkan 7.4 peratus.

Ketua Perangkawan, Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin, berkata, bagi separuh pertama 2024, KDNK meningkat 5.0 peratus berbanding 4.1 tahun lalu.

Katanya, ekonomi Malaysia dijangka meneruskan momentum pertumbuhan, disokong oleh faktor domestik dan didorong oleh eksport, dengan prospek yang positif sepanjang tahun ini.

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) akan mengeluarkan data rasmi KDNK suku kedua 2024 pada Jumaat.

Mohd Afzanizam berpendapat Malaysia berada di landasan yang tepat untuk mencapai unjuran julat KDNK antara 4.0 peratus hingga 5.0 peratus tahun ini.

“Risiko kepada pertumbuhan agak seimbang buat masa ini berikutan ekonomi utama masih berkembang dalam zon positif. Apa yang penting pada masa ini adalah risiko kenaikan yang terhasil daripada rasionalisasi subsidi bahan api, terutama RON95,” katanya.

Selain itu, Mohd Afzanizam berkata pendirian dalam kalangan perniagaan dari segi penetapan harga menunjukkan kecenderungan untuk meningkatkan harga, yang akan diterjemahkan kepada jangkaan inflasi yang lebih tinggi.

“Sehubungan itu, BNM dijangka mengekalkan pendirian dasar monetari semasanya memandangkan ia perlu mencapai keseimbangan yang wajar antara menggalakkan pertumbuhan ekonomi dan mengelak risiko inflasi lebih tinggi.

“Pada 3.00 peratus, OPR dilihat berada pada kedudukan wajar untuk BNM terus menyokong ekonomi,” kata beliau.

Sementara itu, Shan mengunjurkan KDNK Malaysia pada 2024 menokok daripada 4.3 peratus kepada 4.8 peratus, didorong oleh kestabilan makroekonomi, harga komoditi yang lebih tinggi, tarikan (ICT)/semikonduktor dan geografi yang strategik.

“Harga minyak yang lebih tinggi akan memberi manfaat kepada kerajaan dari segi mengukuhkan bahagian fiskal lembaran imbangan.

Shan berkata, di samping itu, dari segi geografi, Malaysia terletak dalam kedudukan strategik memandangkan 80 peratus daripada perdagangan China bergerak melalui Selat Melaka manakala 25 peratus daripada bekalan minyak global turut merentas laluan laut yang sama.

“Ini menjadikan Malaysia sebagai lokasi ideal kepada ramai pelabur mempertimbangkan negara ini bagi pelaburan jangka panjang dan penggunaan sumber,” katanya.

Menurut BNM, ekonomi Malaysia diunjurkan berkembang antara 4.0 dan 5.0 peratus pada 2024, disokong oleh permintaan dalam negeri yang terus berkembang dan peningkatan permintaan luaran.

Dalam laporan Tinjauan Ekonomi dan Monetari 2023, bank pusat berkata pertumbuhan akan dipacu oleh perbelanjaan dalam negeri yang berdaya tahan, dengan sokongan tambahan daripada jangkaan pemulihan dalam eksport.

“Pelancongan dijangka terus bertambah baik manakala pelaksanaan projek berbilang tahun yang baharu dan sedia ada oleh sektor swasta dan awam akan menyokong aktiviti pelaburan.

“Bagaimanapun, pertumbuhan dalam negeri masih tertakluk kepada risiko pertumbuhan menjadi perlahan disebabkan oleh faktor luaran dan dalam negeri,” menurut BNM.

Originally published by Berita Harian.

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 Ogos (Bernama) — Kalangan ahli ekonomi yakin Keluaran Dalam Negara Kasar (KDNK) Malaysia bagi suku kedua 2024 akan berkembang pada 5.8 peratus berbanding 4.2 peratus pada suku pertama tahun ini.

Mereka berpendapat pertumbuhan KDNK akan dirangsang oleh aktiviti perindustrian yang rancak, harga minyak sawit mentah lebih tinggi, pengangguran yang berkurangan dan peningkatan perbelanjaan.

Ahli ekonomi turut bersetuju ekonomi berada dalam kedudukan baik untuk berkembang antara 4.0 dan 5.0 peratus bagi keseluruhan 2024, dengan badan perakaunan memaklumkan, keyakinan global terhadap Malaysia meningkat dengan ketara berikutan telah mempamerkan daya tahan ekonomi yang jelas.

Ketua Ahli Ekonomi Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid berkata pertumbuhan KDNK suku kedua 2024 akan sejajar dengan unjuran awal Jabatan Perangkaan Malaysia (DOSM) sebanyak 5.8 peratus.

Bercakap kepada Bernama, beliau berkata momentum pertumbuhan ekonomi akan berterusan sehingga suku kedua ​​2024, mengatasi pertumbuhan suku pertama 2024 sebanyak 4.2 peratus.

Mohd Afzanizam berkata data semasa menunjukkan ekonomi Malaysia dijangka berkembang baik pada Jun.

Beliau menekankan bahawa negara mencatat pertumbuhan lebih tinggi dalam indeks volum perkhidmatan dan indeks pengeluaran perindustrian, masing-masing meningkat 6.7 peratus dan 4.5 peratus, pada suku kedua 2024.

Beliau berkata pengeluaran minyak sawit mentah naik dua angka kepada 15.9 peratus berbanding 3.4 peratus sebelum ini, menunjukkan peningkatan pendapatan eksport daripada sumber pendapatan komoditi bukan minyak utama negara.

Selain itu, Mohd Afzanizam berkata kadar pengangguran kekal pada 3.3 peratus untuk tiga suku berturut-turut, tetapi jumlah pengangguran susut kepada 557,800 pada suku kedua 2024 daripada 561,100 pada suku pertama 2024.

“Sehubungan itu, pasaran pekerjaan Malaysia mungkin telah mencapai status pekerjaan penuh, menandakan terdapat banyak pekerjaan boleh diisi dan lebih ramai rakyat mempunyai pekerjaan dan meraih pendapatan.

“Pengenalan akaun pengeluaran fleksibel oleh Kumpulan Wang Simpanan Pekerja, di samping program pemindahan tunai, akan memungkinkan trajektori pertumbuhan yang lebih tinggi dalam tempoh terdekat.

“Sehubungan itu, KDNK suku kedua 2024 sewajarnya lebih tinggi berbanding suku sebelumnya,” kata beliau.

Professor of Practice dan Pengarah Pusat Penyelidikan Perbankan Pusat di Asia School of Business Ozer Karagedikli senada dengan Mohd Afzanizam, sambil menyatakan KDNK yang diunjur berkembang 5.8 peratus, mendorong keyakinan terhadap keteguhan ekonomi negara.

Karagedikli berkata Malaysia mempunyai potensi ekonomi yang besar, justeru kadar pertumbuhan antara 4.0 dan 5.5 peratus mungkin boleh dicapai.

Beliau berkata memandangkan julat berkenaan adalah luas, keadaan sedemikian adalah rumit berikutan untuk mencapai pertumbuhan konsisten hampir enam peratus dijangkakan mencabar.

“Ia tidak semudah itu memandangkan untuk mencapai kadar pertumbuhan yang konsisten hampir 6.0 peratus tahun demi tahun adalah munasabah, tetapi mungkin berdepan cabaran, tanpa pembaharuan ketara untuk meningkatkan produktiviti dan daya saing ekonomi,” katanya.

Sementara itu, Kaji Selidik Situasi Ekonomi Global oleh Persatuan Akauntan Bertauliah Berkanun (ACCA) dan Institut Akauntan Pengurusan mendapati keyakinan akauntan dan profesional kewangan global meningkat terhadap ekonomi Malaysia, terutama bagi suku kedua 2024.

ACCA dalam kenyataan berkata rantau Asia Pasifik, termasuk Malaysia, telah menunjukkan daya tahan yang ketara, memberikan gambaran lebih jelas mengenai hala tuju aliran ekonomi serantau dan keutamaan risiko.

“Malaysia, sebagai sebahagian daripada rantau Asia Pasifik, telah mencerminkan arah aliran positif ini. Sektor pembuatan negara telah menyaksikan peningkatan yang ketara, didorong oleh peningkatan permintaan global dan kemajuan teknologi,” katanya.

Menurutnya tinjauan itu mendapati inisiatif kerajaan Malaysia baru-baru ini untuk merangsang ekonomi digital dan meningkatkan infrastruktur terus menyokong pertumbuhan itu.

 “Dasar utama seperti Aspirasi Pelaburan Nasional dan Pelan Tindakan Ekonomi Digital Malaysia telah memainkan peranan penting dalam memacu daya tahan ekonomi,” katanya.

Ketua Ahli Ekonomi Global Juwai IQI Shan Saeed turut mengunjurkan KDNK bergerak antara 4.0 hingga 4.5 peratus pada suku kedua 2024, didorong oleh pertumbuhan ekonomi Malaysia yang kukuh secara keseluruhan, dalam keadaan ketidaktentuan ekonomi global, risiko geopolitik dan kejatuhan pasaran ekuiti di barat.

Beliau berkata ekonomi global yang tidak menentu telah menyebabkan ekonomi Malaysia kekal sebagai penerima manfaat dan terus menarik pelaburan berikutan pelabur akan berpindah ke negara yang mempunyai pelaburan infrastruktur yang kukuh.

“Penggunaan dan pelaburan (antara petunjuk KDNK) dijangka teguh, sekali gus memperkukuh kestabilan ekonomi. Sementara itu, ketibaan pelancong, teknologi litar bersepadu (ICT), dan eksport komoditi memberi isyarat positif kepada pasaran,” katanya.

Pada 19 Julai, DOSM mengumumkan ekonomi Malaysia diunjurkan berkembang 5.8 peratus pada suku kedua 2024, meningkat daripada 4.2 peratus pada suku sebelumnya serta  pertumbuhan tertinggi sejak suku keempat 2022 yang mencatatkan 7.4 peratus.

Ketua Perangkawan Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin berkata, bagi separuh pertama 2024, KDNK meningkat 5.0 peratus berbanding 4.1 tahun lepas.

Katanya ekonomi Malaysia dijangka meneruskan momentum pertumbuhan, disokong oleh faktor domestik dan didorong oleh eksport, dengan prospek yang positif sepanjang tahun ini.

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) akan mengeluarkan data rasmi KDNK suku kedua 2024 pada Jumaat.

Malaysia berada di landasan tepat capai unjuran KDNK 2024

Mohd Afzanizam berpendapat Malaysia berada di landasan yang tepat untuk mencapai unjuran julat KDNK antara 4.0 peratus hingga 5.0 peratus tahun ini.

“Risiko kepada pertumbuhan agak seimbang buat masa ini berikutan ekonomi utama masih berkembang dalam zon positif. Apa yang penting pada masa ini adalah risiko kenaikan yang terhasil daripada rasionalisasi subsidi bahan api, terutama RON95,” katanya.

Selain itu, Mohd Afzanizam berkata pendirian dalam kalangan perniagaan dari segi penetapan harga menunjukkan kecenderungan untuk meningkatkan harga, yang akan diterjemahkan kepada jangkaan inflasi yang lebih tinggi.

“Sehubungan itu, BNM dijangka mengekalkan pendirian dasar monetari semasanya memandangkan ia perlu mencapai keseimbangan yang wajar antara menggalakkan pertumbuhan ekonomi dan mengelak risiko inflasi lebih tinggi.

“Pada 3.00 peratus, OPR dilihat berada pada kedudukan wajar untuk BNM terus menyokong ekonomi,” kata beliau. 

Sementara itu, Shan mengunjurkan KDNK Malaysia pada 2024 menokok daripada 4.3 peratus kepada 4.8 peratus, didorong oleh kestabilan makroekonomi, harga komoditi yang lebih tinggi, tarikan (ICT)/semikonduktor dan geografi yang strategik.

“Harga minyak yang lebih tinggi akan memberi manfaat kepada kerajaan dari segi mengukuhkan bahagian fiskal lembaran imbangan.

Shan berkata, di samping itu, dari segi geografi, Malaysia terletak dalam kedudukan strategik memandangkan 80 peratus daripada perdagangan China bergerak melalui Selat Melaka manakala 25 peratus daripada bekalan minyak global turut merentas laluan laut yang sama.

“Ini menjadikan Malaysia sebagai lokasi ideal kepada ramai pelabur mempertimbangkan negara ini bagi pelaburan jangka panjang dan penggunaan sumber,” katanya.

Menurut BNM, ekonomi Malaysia diunjurkan berkembang antara 4.0 dan 5.0 peratus pada 2024, disokong oleh permintaan dalam negeri yang terus berkembang dan peningkatan permintaan luaran.

Dalam laporan Tinjauan Ekonomi dan Monetari 2023, bank pusat berkata pertumbuhan akan dipacu oleh perbelanjaan dalam negeri yang berdaya tahan, dengan sokongan tambahan daripada jangkaan pemulihan dalam eksport.

“Pelancongan dijangka terus bertambah baik manakala pelaksanaan projek berbilang tahun yang baharu dan sedia ada oleh sektor swasta dan awam akan menyokong aktiviti pelaburan.

“Bagaimanapun, pertumbuhan dalam negeri masih tertakluk kepada risiko pertumbuhan menjadi perlahan disebabkan oleh faktor luaran dan dalam negeri,” menurut BNM.

Originally published by Bernama.

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 14 (Bernama) — Economists agree that Malaysia’s gross domestic product (GDP) for the second quarter of 2024 (2Q 2024) will expand by a phenomenal 5.8 per cent from 1Q 2024’s 4.2 per cent.

They said GDP growth will be bolstered by brisk industrial activities, higher crude palm oil prices, fewer unemployed people, and increased spending.

The economists also concur that the economy is well-positioned to expand by between 4.0 and 5.0 per cent for the whole of 2024, with an accounting body stating that global confidence in Malaysia has improved significantly as it has shown notable economic resilience.

Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said 2Q 2024’s GDP growth would be in line with the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DoSM) advance estimates of 5.8 per cent.

He told Bernama that the economy’s growth momentum would continue into 2Q 2024 beating 1Q 2024’s growth of 4.2 per cent markedly.

Mohd Afzanizam said the prevailing data points suggest Malaysia’s economy is expected to do well in June.

He highlighted that the country recorded higher growth in the volume index of services and the industrial production index, which rose by 6.7 per cent and 4.5 per cent, respectively, in 2Q 2024.

He added that crude palm oil production has increased by double-digits to 15.9 per cent from 3.4 per cent previously, indicating increased export income from the country’s top non-oil commodity earner.

Besides this, Mohd Afzanizam pointed out that the unemployment rate has remained at 3.3 per cent for three consecutive quarters, but the number of unemployed individuals has declined to 557,800 in 2Q 2024 from 561,100 in 1Q 2024.

“On that note, Malaysia’s employment markets may have reached full employment status, meaning there are plenty of jobs to be found and more people have jobs and have been receiving income.

“The introduction of flexible withdrawal accounts by the Employees Provident Fund, along with cash transfer programmes, will allow for a higher growth trajectory in the immediate terms.

“Hence, 2Q 2024’s GDP should be higher than the previous quarter,” he said.

Ozer Karagedikli, professor of practice and director of the Central Banking Research Centre at Asia School of Business, agreed with Mohd Afzanizam, saying GDP is estimated to expand by 5.8 per cent, fostering optimism over the nation’s economic strength.

Karagedikli said Malaysia’s economic potential is substantial, and a growth rate between 4.0 and 5.5 per cent can be achieved.

He said the range is wide and cautioned that the situation is complex because achieving consistent growth close to six per cent might be challenging.

“It is not so simple as achieving consistent growth rates close to 6.0 per cent year after year is possible but might prove challenging without significant reforms to enhance the economy’s productivity and competitiveness,” he said.

Meanwhile, the latest Global Economic Conditions Survey by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and Institute of Management Accountants found a slight improvement in global confidence among accountants and finance professionals in Malaysia’s economy, especially for 2Q 2024.

In a statement, the ACCA said that the Asia Pacific region, including Malaysia, has shown notable resilience, providing key insights into regional economic trends and risk priorities.

“Malaysia, as part of the Asia Pacific region, has mirrored these positive trends. The country’s manufacturing sector has seen a notable uptick, driven by increased global demand and advancements in technology,” it said. 

The ACCA said the survey found that the Malaysian government’s recent initiatives to boost the digital economy and enhance infrastructure have further supported the growth.

“Key policies such as the National Investment Aspirations and the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint have been instrumental in driving economic resilience,” it added.

Juwai IQI global chief economist Shan Saeed also expects GDP to hover between 4.0 to 4.5 per cent in 2Q 2024, driven by Malaysia’s overall solid economic growth amid global economic uncertainties, geopolitical risk and the collapse of equity markets in the West. 

He said global economic uncertainties have led Malaysia’s economy to remain a beneficiary and continue to attract investment as investors would move to countries where infrastructure investment is solid. 

“Consumption and investment (among the indicators of GDP) are expected to be strong, bolstering economic stability. Meanwhile, tourists’ arrival, integrated circuit technology (ICT), and commodities exports are sending positive signals to the market,” he said.

On July 19, DoSM reported an estimated 5.8 per cent expansion in 2Q 2024, up from 4.2 per cent in the previous quarter and the highest growth since 7.4 per cent in 4Q 2022.

For the first half of 2024, chief statistician Datuk Seri Mohd Uzir Mahidin said GDP rose by 5.0 per cent versus 4.1 a year ago, and Malaysia’s economy is expected to continue its growth momentum, supported by domestic and export-driven factors, with a positive outlook for the rest of the year.

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) will release the official 2Q 2024 GDP data on Friday.

Malaysia on track to meet 2024 GDP forecast

Mohd Afzanizam opined that Malaysia is on track to meet its range forecast for its GDP of between 4.0 per cent to 5.0 per cent this year.

“Risks to growth are fairly balanced for now, given that the major economies are still growing in a positive territory. What matters now is the upside risk arising from the rationalisation of fuel subsidies, especially on RON95,” he said.

Additionally, Mohd Afzanizam said the pricing behaviour among businesses indicated a tendency for prices to be raised, which would translate into an expectation of higher inflation.

“On that note, the BNM is expected to keep its current monetary policy stance at status as it needs to strike the right balance between promoting economic growth and keeping the risks of higher inflation at bay.

“At 3.00 per cent, the OPR appears to be at the right spot for BNM to remain supportive of the economy,” he added.

Meanwhile, Shan foresees Malaysia’s 2024 GDP edging up from 4.3 per cent to 4.8 per cent, which is supported by macroeconomic stability, higher commodity prices, ICT/semiconductor attraction, and ⁠strategic geography.

“Higher oil prices would benefit the government in terms of consolidating the fiscal side of the balance sheet.

“ICT demand is growing globally. Malaysia is in a perfect position to supply more, thus creating jobs and more revenue for companies and helping the GDP growth at the macro level,” he said.

Additionally, Shan said that geographically, Malaysia is located at a strategic point as 80 per cent of China’s trade moves through the Strait of Malacca, while 25 per cent of global oil supplies also pass through the same seaway.

“This makes Malaysia an ideal location for many investors to consider the country for long-term investment and resource deployment,” he said.

According to BNM, the Malaysian economy is projected to grow between 4.0 per cent and 5.0 per cent in 2024, underpinned by continued expansion in domestic demand and improvement in external demand.

In its Economic and Monetary Review 2023 report, the central bank said growth will be driven by resilient domestic expenditure, with additional support from the expected recovery in exports.

“Tourism is expected to improve further while implementing new and ongoing multi-year projects by both the private and public sectors would support investment activity. 

“Nevertheless, domestic growth remains subject to downside risks from both external and domestic factors,” BNM added.

Originally published by Bernama.

KUALA LUMPUR: Unjuran awal Keluaran Dalam Negara Kasar (KDNK) Malaysia yang menunjukkan ekonomi berkembang 5.8 peratus pada suku kedua 2024, mendorong keyakinan terhadap keteguhan ekonomi negara, kata Profesor Ozer Karagedikli (bergambar).

Karagedikli yang juga Professor of Praxtice dan Pengarah Pusat Penyelidikan Perbankan Pusat di Asia School of Business (ASB) itu berkata, Malaysia mempunyai potensi ekonomi yang besar, justeru kadar pertumbuhan ini mungkin tercapai.

Read the full article HERE.
Originally published by Utusan Sarawak.

KUALA LUMPUR: Advance estimates for Malaysia’s gross domestic product (GDP) suggest the economy expanded by 5.8 per cent in the second quarter (2Q) of 2024, fostering optimism about the nation’s economic strength, according to Professor Ozer Karagedikli.

Karagedikli, professor of practice and director of the Central Banking Research Centre at Asia School of Business (ASB), noted that Malaysia’s economic potential is substantial and this growth rate appears achievable.

Nevertheless, he cautioned that the situation is complex.

“It is not simple. My assessment is that Malaysia’s trend growth rate is likely in the range of 4.0 and 5.5 per cent, which is a wide range in itself.

“Achieving consistent growth rates close to 6.0 per cent year after year is possible but might prove challenging without significant reforms to enhance the economy’s productivity and competitiveness,” he said in a statement. – Bernama

Originally published by Borneo Post

On 12 and 13 June 2024, the ASEAN Research Center (ARC) at the Asia School of Business (ASB) held its two-day ASB-UNHCR Conference on Refugee Studies and Forced Displacement 2024. This annual conference, hosted in collaboration with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is dedicated to presenting and expanding the availability of academic literature on refugee studies and forced displacement. This year’s conference featured a special focus on bilateral learnings of refugee contexts between Brazil and Malaysia, facilitated through a special knowledge exchange with the Embassy of Brazil in Kuala Lumpur.

“We are proud to welcome everyone here to the fourth iteration of this event. As academics, it is incumbent upon us to fill in the existing gaps in knowledge around these critical social issues,” said Prof. Sanjay Sarma, the Chief Executive Officer, President, and Dean of the ASB. His welcome address to the audience of approximately 200 individuals in the Khazanah Auditorium at the Asia School of Business concluded with a brief moment of silence in recognition of the ongoing human rights crises leading to forced displacement around the world, from the Middle East to Sudan.

The conference was attended by a international network of academics, policymakers, researchers, civil society organisations, and members of the refugee community to discuss critical developments in refugee rights, and to share their knowledge about existing mechanisms available to improving the lives of refugees on a global scale. 

Across both days, there will be research presentations from ten academics, including representation from the United States, Bangkok, Singapore, and Brunei Darussalam. Each day of the conference will conclude with a walkthrough poster presentation from 17 contributing researchers, and a bazaar featuring the work of 20 refugee entrepreneurs selling handmade crafts and food products.

This year’s conference received special support from the Brazilian Embassy, who facilitated two special learning sessions on their innovative approach to refugee policy.

H. E. Ary Norton de Murat Quintella, Ambassador of Brazil to Malaysia addressed the crowd as part of the opening proceedings. “The countries of Latin America, just as the ones in Southeast Asia, are mainly developing, middle income countries. As such, they face constant challenges to ensure the proper and full implementation of their refugee policies, taking into account the fiscal and political constraints for government action in emergent economies.” He delivered an impassioned speech on the importance of “continuous dialogue and the exchange of experiences and good practices” between Global South countries, and stressed the importance of addressing the possible economic causes of forced displacement, not just the symptoms.

“While refugees are often forced to leave their possessions behind, their creativity, skills, and qualifications stay with them,” said Mr. Thomas Albrecht, the UNHCR Representative in Malaysia, stressing the importance of refugee rights. “Being a refugee is a circumstance – it is not who a person is. … We have seen countless examples here in Malaysia itself of refugees able to use their talents and passions to not only uplift their lives, but whole communities.”

Dr. Pedro Cicero, the General Coordinator of the Brazilian National Committee for Refugees (CONARE) delivered his flagship presentation on Brazil’s innovative approach to refugee inclusion. He delved into the nation’s unique prima facie refugee policy, under which individuals are granted the presumption of inclusion with a simplified asylum process.
Dr. Cicero’s remarks about the importance of treating refugees with dignity were echoed by Ms. Comfort Wobil Brima, a representative from the West African Refugee Community in Malaysia. She spoke movingly about the realities faced by refugee youths in particular: “Do they have security? Who do they cry to? Do they get a daily meal all the time? These are questions that most teenagers within the refugee community, especially those who are unaccompanied minors, ask on a daily basis.”

In concluding the proceedings on the first day, ARC’s Faculty Director, Prof. Melati Nungsari, reminded the audience of the importance of academic interventions in resolving social change. 

She said, “New forms of media, social and otherwise, provide us with unprecedented access to the realities of people facing forced displacement and human rights violations worldwide. Despite the negative perceptions that many Malaysians have about refugees, the findings of the research show that it is possible for these attitudes to change for the better. Events like these serve as spaces for reflection and collaboration, through which academics and the public alike can arrive at new approaches and ways of thinking.”. Bringing together researchers from different countries and various interests, the first day of the conference featured research presentation sessions built around the theme of Intervention Mechanisms. 

Dr. Tan Sok Teng of the National University of Singapore (NUS) presented her work researching the impact of social capital on the healthcare services available to Rohingya refugees in Malaysia. From the Refugee Emergency Fund (REF), Dr. Norliza Nordeen used the work done by REF to highlight many of the financial challenges faced by refugees when accessing healthcare. Lastly Dr. Melati Nungsari, Faculty Director of the ARC presented her own research on stereotypes from the general public to understand Malaysian perceptions of refugees.

On the second day of the conference, there were further presentation sessions themed around Policy Implementations and Social Attitudes. The session on policy implementations showcased Dr. Samina Khan’s (University Kebangsaan Malaysia) research on how climate change impacts refugees, Dr. Mary Rose Geraldine A. Sarausad’s (Asian Institute of Technology) analysis of Thailand’s national screening mechanism, and an overview of the Bangkok Principles by Dr. Lily Song (Otago University). From a social attitudes perspective, Dr. Kimberley Kong (Universiti Sains Malaysia) presented her research about the early childhood education of refugees in Malaysia, and Dr. AKM Ahsan Ullah (University of Brunei Darussalam) explored questions around the international response to refugees from Gaza.

The two-day conference came to an end with a film screening and panel discussion featuring independent filmmaker Laura Low, refugee representative Asiya Arian, and Prof. Melati Nungsari. Their insightful reflections about how mass media can affect our perceptions of refugees brought a human touch to the academic discussions, especially when accompanied by a screening of “Still in Motion,” a short film by Laura Low that explores themes of human resilience, faith and survival from the perspective of two Rohingya refugees.

The ASB and ARC are most grateful to all attendees, researchers, and partners for their invaluable contributions to this meaningful event as yet another step towards developing our collective understanding of the challenges faced by refugees and forcibly displaced persons. We extend a special thanks to the diplomatic community in attendance, including the Ambassadors of Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, Spain, and Venezuela.

ENDS

Malaysia’s social entrepreneurship movement has untapped potential due to low awareness and cohesion. To address this, PurpoSE Malaysia and the Chamber of Social Entrepreneur Development (CSED) Malaysia have developed the Social Enterprise Malaysia Amplifying Impact (Semai) Summit.

The highlight of this year’s summit is the launch of the ASBhive-Hasanah Impact Challenge, in partnership with Yayasan Hasanah. The programme offers RM250,000 in grants to support social enterprises that focus on education, community development and the environment.

The grants aim to support social enterprises at both the seed and growth stages, providing accessible funding to enhance their capacity. This initiative is designed to sustain operations, boost fundraising efforts and raise public awareness of social innovation and scale solutions for positive social and environmental impacts. Applications for the grants opened on June 27 and will close on July 31.

The summit is organised by Asia School of Business in collaboration with the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, PurpoSE Malaysia and CSED.

The Semai Summit is a community-led movement dedicated to advancing social entrepreneurship, from grassroots initiatives to wide-reaching stakeholder involvement. The movement aims to create a supportive ecosystem for local and Malaysia-based social entrepreneurs through knowledge sharing, collaboration and access to resources.

For more information on the Semai Summit, visit iec@asb.edu.my.

Read the full article HERE.
Originally published by The Edge.

Kuala Lumpur, 1 July 2024 – The Asia School of Business (ASB) kicked off the SEMAI Summit on June 27, 2024. The summit aims to foster learning, support, and networking among key players in the social enterprise ecosystem.

The summit, organized by ASB in collaboration with the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, PurpoSE, and the Chamber of Social Entrepreneur Development (CSED), was inaugurated by the Minister of Entrepreneurship and Cooperative Development, YB Datuk Ewon Benedick.

PurpoSE Co-founder & Managing Partner, Wan Dazriq noted that, “Malaysia as a nation has vast potential that has yet to be properly unlocked with respect to the social entrepreneurship movement. From an ecosystem-building standpoint, government support through accreditation, grants, and incentives are already in place. What is lacking are the mass awareness, understanding, and cohesion in the Malaysian social entrepreneurship space. This is what we aim to bridge – the gaps in awareness and buy-in from private and public sector stakeholders through the SEMAI Summit movement.”

ASBhive Impact Challenge Partnership with Yayasan Hasanah
A key highlight of this year’s SEMAI Summit was the launch of the ASBhive-Hasanah Impact Challenge, in partnership with Yayasan Hasanah. This initiative offers RM250,000 in grants to support social enterprises that are focused on education, community development, and the environment.

The grants aim to support social enterprises at both the seed and growth stages by enhancing their capacity with funds that are easier to access. This initiative is designed to sustain operations, improve fundraising efforts, increase the public’s awareness of social innovation, and scale solutions for positive social and environmental outcomes. Applications for the grants were opened on June 27 and will close on July 31.

Yayasan Hasanah Head of Social Enterprise, Stanley Siva said, “Yayasan Hasanah is dedicated to empowering social enterprises and driving their scalability through the Hasanah Social Enterprise Fund. We are committed to expanding our capacity-building efforts through strategic partnerships, network development, and active support for the social enterprise ecosystem in Malaysia. Our collaboration with the Asia School of Business on the ASBhive-Hasanah Impact Challenge is a testament to our dedication to broadening our reach and amplifying our impact in this sector.”

ASB Deputy CEO Professor Joseph Cherian added, “ASBhive is our commitment to play a part in the development of social enterprises in Malaysia and thread into the myriad of issues confronting societies across the world. ASBhive may not be able to solve all the world’s social problems. But we endeavour to make a difference through our efforts as we host action-based Social Innovation Challenges that tackle urgent global issues but with a keen focus on making a local impact. Our collaboration with Yayasan Hasanah, through the ASBhive Social Impact Challenge provides grants to Social Enterprises aiming to scale their impact and attain sustainability”

The SEMAI Summit brought together representatives from corporations, government agencies, and social entrepreneurs, making it a meaningful opportunity for diverse sectoral engagements and innovation, and driving forward the social enterprise agenda in Malaysia.

The summit is a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Cooperative Development, PurpoSE, Chamber of Social Entrepreneur Development (CSED) and  Asia School of Business.

For more information on the SEMAI Summit, please contact iec@asb.edu.my.

As part of our quick founder questions series – or QFQs – we spoke to Chor Chee Hoe, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Qarbotech, about photosynthesis, nanotechnology, and adaptability.

What was the catalyst for launching Qarbotech?
The catalyst for launching Qarbotech was the need to address the pressing global challenges of food security and climate change. Prof. Suraya Abdul Rashid’s research into photosynthesis enhancers revealed a unique opportunity to significantly boost crop yields and resilience. The potential of this technology, combined with the urgent need for sustainable agricultural solutions, inspired the founding of Qarbotech in 2018. When I was doing MBA at Asia School of Business, I had an opportunity to work with Prof. Suraya Abdul Rashid from Universiti Putra Malaysia on an academic project. We worked synergistically, and the chemistry between us was great. Then, she invited me to be the co-founder of Qarbotech to bring her research into commercialisation. Since then, we have made good progress for Qarbotech.

Tell me about the business – what it is, what it aims to achieve, who you work with, how you reach customers and so on?
Qarbotech is a pioneering nanotechnology and agritech company specialising in the development and manufacturing of photosynthesis enhancers. Our flagship product, QarboGrow, is a biocompatible organic compound that enhances photosynthesis efficiency, leading to increased crop yields, shorter growth cycles, improved fruit quality, and greater resilience to drought.

Our aim is to revolutionise agriculture by providing innovative solutions that promote sustainable farming practices, mitigate climate change, and ensure global food security. We collaborate with farmers, agricultural businesses, research institutions, and government bodies to implement our technology across various agricultural sectors.

We reach our customers through a combination of direct sales, partnerships with agricultural distributors, and online platforms. Our marketing strategy includes demonstrations, workshops, and collaborations with agricultural organisations to showcase the benefits of QarboGrow.

How has the business evolved since its launch? When was this?
Since its launch in 2018, Qarbotech has made significant strides in product development, commercialisation, and market penetration. Initially focused on gathering data and testimonials from home gardening customers, we have since expanded our product range and market reach.

Key milestones include the commercialisation of Harvast for the home gardening segment in 2020, the formulation and launch of QarboGrow in 2022, and various awards and recognitions, such as the Tech Planter Malaysia and Asia awards, and significant investments from Glocalink Singapore and 500 Global.

Tell us about the working culture at Qarbotech
At Qarbotech, we foster a collaborative and innovative working culture. Our team is driven by a shared commitment to sustainability and excellence. We encourage open communication, continuous learning, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Our culture emphasises respect, integrity, and a passion for positively impacting the world.

How are you funded?
Qarbotech is funded through a combination of grants, investments, and awards. We have received market validation grants, angel investments, and funding from venture capital firms such as Glocalink Singapore and 500 Global. We have also won several innovation challenges, providing financial support and industry recognition.

What has been your biggest challenge so far and how have you overcome this?
Our biggest challenge has been scaling our technology from lab research to commercial application. This involved extensive field testing, data collection, and product refinement to ensure effectiveness and safety. We overcame this challenge by partnering with research institutions, leveraging funding opportunities, and maintaining a customer-focused approach to product development and feedback.

How does Qarbotech answer an unmet need?
Qarbotech addresses the unmet need for sustainable and effective agricultural solutions that enhance photosynthesis. Traditional farming methods often overlook the potential of optimising photosynthesis, focusing instead on soil and nutrient management. Our technology shifts the focus to the leaves, significantly boosting photosynthetic efficiency, which translates to higher yields, improved crop quality, and greater resilience to environmental stressors.

What’s in store for the future?
The future for Qarbotech includes expanding our market presence in Southeast Asia and beyond, further refining our product range, and developing new applications for our nanotechnology. We aim to form strategic partnerships with global agricultural leaders and continue our commitment to research and innovation. Our long-term goal is to be at the forefront of sustainable agricultural technology, contributing to global food security and environmental sustainability.

What one piece of advice would you give other founders or future founders?
One piece of advice for other founders or future founders is to remain resilient and adaptable. The journey of building a startup is fraught with challenges and uncertainties. Stay focused on your vision, be open to learning from failures, and continuously seek feedback from your customers and stakeholders. Building a strong network and fostering collaborative partnerships can also provide invaluable support and opportunities for growth.

And finally, a more personal question! What’s your daily routine and the rules you’re living by at the moment?
My daily routine involves starting the day with a clear focus on priorities and goals. I dedicate time to strategic planning, team meetings, and engaging with our partners and customers. Continuous learning is also a key part of my routine, whether through reading, attending industry events, or exploring new innovations.

The rules I live by include maintaining a balance between work and personal life, staying committed to our mission of sustainability, and fostering a culture of respect and collaboration within the team. I believe in leading by example and staying true to our values of integrity, innovation, and impact.

Chor Chee Hoe is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Qarbotech.

Originally published by Maddyness.

The Asia School of Business (ASB) recently kicked off the SEMAI Summit aiming foster learning, support, and networking among key players in the social enterprise ecosystem.

The summit, organized by ASB in collaboration with the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, PurpoSE, and the Chamber of Social Entrepreneur Development (CSED), was inaugurated by the Minister of Entrepreneurship and Cooperative Development, YB Datuk Ewon Benedick.

PurpoSE Co-founder & Managing Partner, Wan Dazriq noted that, “Malaysia as a nation has vast potential that has yet to be properly unlocked with respect to the social entrepreneurship movement. From an ecosystem-building standpoint, government support through accreditation, grants, and incentives are already in place. What is lacking are the mass awareness, understanding, and cohesion in the Malaysian social entrepreneurship space. This is what we aim to bridge – the gaps in awareness and buy-in from private and public sector stakeholders through the SEMAI Summit movement.”

ASBhive Impact Challenge Partnership with Yayasan Hasanah

A key highlight of this year’s SEMAI Summit was the launch of the ASBhive-Hasanah Impact Challenge, in partnership with Yayasan Hasanah. This initiative offers RM250,000 in grants to support social enterprises that are focused on education, community development, and the environment.

The grants aim to support social enterprises at both the seed and growth stages by enhancing their capacity with funds that are easier to access. This initiative is designed to sustain operations, improve fundraising efforts, increase the public’s awareness of social innovation, and scale solutions for positive social and environmental outcomes. Applications for the grants were opened on June 27 and will close on July 31.

Yayasan Hasanah Head of Social Enterprise, Stanley Siva said, “Yayasan Hasanah is dedicated to empowering social enterprises and driving their scalability through the Hasanah Social Enterprise Fund. We are committed to expanding our capacity-building efforts through strategic partnerships, network development, and active support for the social enterprise ecosystem in Malaysia. Our collaboration with the Asia School of Business on the ASBhive-Hasanah Impact Challenge is a testament to our dedication to broadening our reach and amplifying our impact in this sector.”

ASB Deputy CEO Professor Joseph Cherian added, “ASBhive is our commitment to play a part in the development of social enterprises in Malaysia and thread into the myriad of issues confronting societies across the world. ASBhive may not be able to solve all the world’s social problems. But we endeavour to make a difference through our efforts as we host action-based Social Innovation Challenges that tackle urgent global issues but with a keen focus on making a local impact. Our collaboration with Yayasan Hasanah, through the ASBhive Social Impact Challenge provides grants to Social Enterprises aiming to scale their impact and attain sustainability”

The SEMAI Summit brought together representatives from corporations, government agencies, and social entrepreneurs, making it a meaningful opportunity for diverse sectoral engagements and innovation, and driving forward the social enterprise agenda in Malaysia.

Originally published by Disruptr MY.