Latest news with #Razman
Sinar Daily
20-06-2025
- Business
- Sinar Daily
Malaysia's leap in competitiveness, investments reflect strong investor confidence, economic resilience
SHAH ALAM – Malaysia's impressive 11-spot leap to 23rd in the 2025 World Competitiveness Ranking (WCR), coupled with Shell's commitment to invest over RM9 billion in the coming years, is widely seen as a strong affirmation of the country's growing attractiveness to investors, despite ongoing global economic challenges. Economists welcomed these developments as clear indicators that the Madani Government economic framework is beginning to bear fruit. They pointed to the government's focus on fiscal reform, long-term economic stability and inclusive growth as key factors behind this renewed investor confidence and improved global perception of Malaysia's economic direction. Economist and Putra Business School Business Administration Programme Director Associate Professor Dr Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff said these indicators were highly encouraging, particularly given the current global uncertainties. 'I view these recent developments as highly encouraging, particularly given the challenging global economic environment Malaysia is currently navigating, including potential tariff hikes from the United States (US). 'Despite such external pressures, Malaysia's significant improvement in the 2025 WCR and Shell's RM9 billion investment signal that investor confidence remains robust. "This affirms Malaysia's standing as a preferred investment destination, bolstered by our political stability, strong growth potential and increasing competitiveness," he told Sinar Daily when contacted. Razman credited the government's fiscal reforms, especially subsidy rationalisation and deficit reduction efforts, for improving efficiency and laying the foundation for long-term sustainable growth. These measures, he clarified, help curb wastage and enable better resource allocation. 'The Madani government's commitment to sustainability, resilience and inclusivity is evident in its initiatives to reduce inequality, raise household incomes through better wages and manage the cost of living. 'When such efforts are effectively implemented and truly benefit the population, they help preserve social cohesion. This stability, in turn, enhances Malaysia's attractiveness to investors," he added. Razman also cited the importance of creating high-skilled jobs as a key strategy to address income inequality and job mismatches. He described that aligning individuals' skills with the right employment opportunities not only improves their livelihoods but also boosts domestic consumption and overall economic activity. However, he cautioned that public perception plays a critical role in the success of these reforms. To ensure citizens recognise the benefits, he stressed the need for clear and effective communication. On June 18, Anwar (right) confirmed Shell CEO Wael Sawan's (left) pledge to invest over RM9 billion in Malaysia within two to three years. Photo: Anwar's Facebook page Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) Chairman and economist, Dr Nungsari Ahmad Radhi echoed similar sentiments, noting that Malaysia's rise in the global rankings was a sign that the Madani economic framework was producing results. 'Malaysia's recent rise in the 2025 WCR is a highly encouraging development, especially given today's uncertain global environment. "It signals that the Madani economic framework is beginning to deliver tangible results. 'Since the index assesses economic performance, government and business efficiency and infrastructure, our improved ranking reflects progress across all these areas," he said. Nungsari said that fiscal reform must remain a top national priority and emphasised the importance of public understanding of the rationale behind such reforms. Strengthening Malaysia's fiscal position, he added, inevitably involves making difficult decisions, whether through spending cuts, reallocations, or revenue increases. It is therefore crucial for the public to grasp why these measures are necessary. He cited the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2023 (FRA) and the ongoing subsidy rationalisation efforts as key components of these reforms. According to him, such initiatives are vital to preserving Malaysia's sovereign credit rating, which in turn helps to keep the country's borrowing costs manageable. 'In the context of the Madani administration, sustainability is fundamentally about fiscal sustainability. If we fail to protect our fiscal space, our ability to spend or borrow during a crisis, we risk undermining our resilience. 'Our companies must look toward larger markets, particularly across Asean. "At the same time, we must strengthen our workforce through upskilling and make it easier to do business. These efforts, collectively, will reduce income inequality and build a more inclusive economy," he added. On June 18, Anwar (right) confirmed Shell CEO Wael Sawan's (left) pledge to invest over RM9 billion in Malaysia within two to three years. Photo: Anwar's Facebook page Economist and Director of Williams Business Consultancy Sdn Bhd, Dr Geoffrey Williams saw Shell's RM9 billion investment as a clear indication of long-term confidence in Malaysia's economic environment. He described the move as a welcome development, noting Shell's decades-long relationship with the country. 'In many ways, such enduring partnerships speak more meaningfully to the strength of Malaysia's economic environment than short-term fluctuations in metrics like the WCR. 'From a macroeconomic standpoint, the Malaysian economy is performing well. Growth remains strong, inflation is stable and the financial system is sound. The country's fiscal position, particularly regarding debt and deficit levels, has stabilised," he said. However, Williams pointed out that despite Malaysia benefiting from decades of foreign direct investment, these investments have yet to significantly translate into the creation of high-skilled jobs or meaningful wage growth. He argued that the existing wage-setting mechanisms have failed to distribute the benefits of the country's development fairly. 'The system has not effectively channeled the gains from economic development into salaries, upward mobility, or reduced income area that clearly needs reform. 'While there is still considerable work to be done to achieve lasting improvement, the path forward is clearer with the proper implementation of the Medium-Term Fiscal Strategy (MTFS) and the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA). "Alongside these efforts, continued focus on reducing wastage, leakages, and corruption remains essential. In this context, subsidy rationalisation is a key tool and progress has already been made in areas like electricity and diesel subsidies, with RON95 fuel reforms expected in the near future," he said. Williams affirmed that the Madani framework is grounded in strong principles and holds the potential to bring real benefits to the public while promoting long-term economic development—provided it is implemented effectively. However, he pointed out that a major challenge lies in the way these benefits are identified and communicated. 'Both areas need considerable improvement to ensure the public can fully understand and feel the impact of the initiatives under the framework,' he said. On June 18, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed that Shell's Global Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Wael Sawan had pledged to invest over RM9 billion in Malaysia within two to three years. The announcement came after a courtesy call on the Prime Minister following his engagement at Sasana Kijang. Anwar described the investment as a commitment to creating high-skilled jobs and a reflection of Shell's long-standing trust in Malaysia's direction under the Madani government, which he said was built on stability, sustainability and long-term resilience. Malaysia also rose 11 places in the 2025 WCR, from 34th to 23rd—a rare and significant improvement. Malaysia University of Science and Technology (MUST) economics expert, Professor Emeritus Dr Barjoyai Bardai said the jump reflected a strong recovery, driven by prudent fiscal policy, targeted subsidies and growing investor trust. While the effects may not yet be fully felt by the public, he predicted they would translate into higher incomes and more job opportunities in the medium term.
New Straits Times
07-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
US-China renewed dialogue seen lifting Malaysia's trade outlook
KUALA LUMPUR: Renewed trade talks between the United States and China are expected to boost investor confidence and strengthen Malaysia's trade momentum, an economist said. Putra Business School economist Professor Dr Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff said any move to reduce tariffs between the two economic giants could steady the sails for Malaysia by boosting confidence and trade visibility. "If the US and China agree to resume talks and reach a deal to reduce tariffs on each other, Malaysia's trade environment and investor sentiment will become less volatile and uncertain," he told Business Times. "This would boost investor confidence and encourage continued investment in Malaysia," Razman added, noting that while tensions persist, Malaysia is taking steps to shield its economy. Razman also expects Malaysia's export markets and supply chains to remain competitive, although growth may moderate slightly. This, he said, is supported by ongoing efforts to diversify export destinations, grow the country's trading partnerships and enhance intra-Asean trade. Should US-China negotiations break down again, he said the impact on Malaysia would likely remain limited. "There will be some negative impact but it will be minimum as majority of Malaysia's products such as semiconductor will not be subjected to higher tariffs by the US," he said. Trump and Xi held a 90-minute phone conversation on Thursday, marking their first direct dialogue since Trump resumed office. The call, widely viewed as a positive step towards easing the prolonged trade tensions between the world's two largest economies, laid the groundwork for renewed bilateral cooperation and the resumption of high-level trade negotiations. Both leaders agreed to restart trade talks, with senior US officials, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, expected to meet their Chinese counterparts. The timing and venue for these negotiations have yet to be finalised but are anticipated to be announced in the coming weeks. Although the call sparked market optimism, US stocks closed lower as a sharp decline in Tesla shares outweighed the positive momentum from progress in US-China tariff negotiations. Tesla shares plunged over 14 per cent in heavy trading as the escalating public feud between Trump and businessman Elon Musk rattled investors, wiping out about US$150 billion in market value. Razman downplayed concerns over the spat saying, "The impact on Malaysia will be minimal, as the fallout primarily affects the SpaceX program and Tesla production."
Focus Malaysia
06-06-2025
- Politics
- Focus Malaysia
PAS dep. president fumes at DAP for seeking cops' immunity from offensive Razman clown caricature
THE war of words between PAS and DAP over a clown caricature deemed offensive to Perak state opposition leader Razman Zakaria has escalated with the Islamist party's deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man calling on the latter to allow space for the police to conduct its probe into the matter. This came about as DAP Socialist Youth chief Woo Kah Leong is currently under police investigation over a social media post that depicted Razman who was the former Perak PAS commissioner as a clown riding a unicycle on a tightrope with the caption 'Raja Fitnah' (literally, 'King of Slanders'). Woo who is also the first term Pasir Bedamar state assemblyman had on April 1 uploaded the caricature in a Facebook (FB) post alongside a reference to the various instances of Razman having to apologise to Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders over various accusations he had made against them. In his defence of Razman, Tuan Ibrahim has hit out at Pahang DAP state assemblyman for Bilut, Lee Chin Chen, who was reported by Malaysiakini as having urged the police to stop their investigation against Woo. Alluding to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim himself seeking the much-criticised immunity from the civil suit filed by his former research assistant Muhammed Yusoff Rawther, the PAS lawmaker described Lee's call as an extreme action which disrespects the legal process. 'This is as if they (DAP) have the power to prevent civil servants from carrying out the duties entrusted to them,' he rebuked in a FB post. 'The reasoning that the caricature is a form of satirical artistic expression that conveys criticism is superficial. Art should not be tainted with insulting messages, especially if it comes from a government exco against his political opponent. 'He shouldn't have interfered in police investigations because this country upholds the separation of powers between the executive, legislative and judicial.' In his defence over the clown caricature of Razman, Woo chided the Gunung Semanggol state assemblyman for resorting to lodge a police report instead of explaining or counter his argument with argument or to even apologise for his slew of slanders. 'Asking the police to investigate merely because of the satirical nature of the caricature is the true appearance of a Perikatan Nasional (PN) politician who is thin-skinned (berhati tisu) and easily offended (koyak),' chided the Perak state EXCO for Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, Consumer Affairs & Chinese New Villages. Recall that one of Razman's latest slander was by having mistaken Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh as the daughter of YTL Corp's late founder Tan Sri Yeoh Tiong Lay. Following thus blunder, the PAS central leadership has since distanced itself from Razman by reportedly relieved him of his duties as the Perak PAS Commissioner with the role temporarily taken over by PAS vice-president and Bagan Serai MP Datuk Idris Ahmad. – June 4, 2025
New Straits Times
02-06-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Police record statement from DAP youth chief over satirical social media post
IPOH: Police have recorded the statement of DAP Youth chief Woo Kah Leong to assist in investigations regarding a social media post featuring a caricature of Perak opposition leader Razman Zakaria. Acting Gerik district police chief Deputy Superintendent Muhammad Firdaus Abdullah confirmed the matter when contacted today. "Yes, a statement was recorded. It is part of the investigation process," he said briefly. Earlier today, Woo, who is also the Perak State Executive Councillor for Domestic Trade, Consumer Affairs and New Villages, in a press conference said he had given his statement to the police following a report lodged against him over a Facebook post from April featuring a clown-themed caricature of Razman. Lawyer Syahredzan Johan, who is representing Woo, said two investigating officers from the Gerik district police headquarters visited the Exco Office at the Perak Darul Ridzuan Building to record the statement, which lasted about 30 minutes, starting at 10.50am. "All the questions were answered. We fully cooperated," he said during a press conference at the Perak DAP headquarters today. Syahredzan said police also seized Woo's iPhone and SIM card for further investigation. Meanwhile, Woo described the police report lodged against him as an unhealthy political culture and an attempt to stifle freedom of expression. He claimed that political satire, including caricatures, does not constitute a personal attack but is instead a form of public oversight. "As a politician, I defend everyone's right to criticise me, and at the same time, I also have the right to respond rather than stay silent," he said. Previously, Razman had demanded that Woo issue a public apology during the Perak State Legislative Assembly session over the publication of provocative content targeting him, which was posted on social media on April 10. However, Woo stood by his action, arguing that the caricature was a form of satire based on facts — one of the cornerstones of democracy.
New Straits Times
24-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Bank Negara has policy space as inflation remains contained: Economists
KUALA LUMPUR: Bank Negara Malaysia may have room to ease interest rates in the coming months as inflationary pressures remain contained and external economic headwinds build, economists said. April's consumer price index (CPI) data showed that headline inflation held steady at 1.4 per cent year-on-year, unchanged from March, despite festive-season spending during Hari Raya. Core inflation, however, inched up to two per cent, the highest in 17 months, driven by firmer price pressures in services and durable goods. Putra Business School economic analyst Prof Dr Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff said the benign inflation backdrop, coupled with rising global risks, supports the case for a potential 25 basis-point reduction in the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) in the second half of the year. He pointed to geopolitical tensions and reciprocal tariff measures by the United States (US) as key threats to global trade, which could spill over into Malaysia's export-oriented economy. Still, Razman expects domestic growth to remain resilient. "Despite all the uncertainties caused by US tariffs, the economic outlook for the second half of the year remains positive, supported by stronger trade activity and expected higher foreign direct investments," he told Business Times. He added Malaysia's chairmanship of Asean this year is also expected to lift domestic demand through enhanced regional collaboration. According to the Department of Statistics' (DOSM) report on Wednesday, price increases in April were led by personal care and housing costs. Personal care saw the sharpest rise at 4.1 per cent, while education and housing expenses increased between 2.0 and 2.3 per cent. Food and beverage inflation eased slightly to 2.3 per cent from 2.5 per cent a month earlier, helped by lower vegetable and dairy prices despite festive demand. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said while inflation is largely under control, Bank Negara may soon need to pivot its policy stance if growth slows meaningfully. "The current economic environment is highly fluid, which necessitates a careful and well-calibrated monetary policy response," he said, adding that a rate cut of 25 basis points could be considered if signs of a slowdown persist. He said gross domestic product growth in the second half could dip below four per cent, warranting policy support. This outlook is consistent with Hong Leong Investment Bank (HLIB) economist Felicia Ling's view that the inflation environment remains relatively benign. "Recent data suggests a benign domestic inflation with minimal inflationary pressures, leaving Bank Negara more room for monetary easing," she said in a research note. HLIB has maintained its full-year CPI forecast at 2.7 per cent but cautioned that global demand weakness and subdued commodity prices pose downside risks. Maybank Investment Bank chief economist Suhaimi Ilias said broader inflation trends have remained muted despite policy changes. "Inflation remains subdued at sub-two per cent year-to-date even with the 13.3 per cent minimum wage hike in February," he said. He added that the limited price pass-through may be attributed to the hike's initial application only to large employers. Meanwhile, DOSM said deflation persisted in certain segments, led by a 4.5 per cent fall in information and communication and a 0.1 per cent dip in clothing and footwear. Public Investment Bank economist Sabrina Edora said while inflation will likely stay below three per cent for the year, risks could emerge from domestic policy shifts. These include fuel subsidy reforms and a wider service tax net. Still, she believes any inflationary impact will be manageable if such reforms are introduced gradually and supported by offsetting measures. "Given the backdrop of lower global commodity prices, the near-term inflation trajectory is expected to remain benign, even in the event of subsidy rationalisation," she said. Bank Negara's latest monetary policy statement projected headline inflation to average between 2.0 and 3.5 per cent this year, with core inflation between 1.5 and 2.5 per cent. With three policy meetings left in 2025, in July, September and November, economists say the central bank has policy space if conditions deteriorate. A 25 basis-point cut in the third quarter is still on the table, Edora said, assuming stable macroeconomic conditions and continued electricity tariff subsidies.
