Here's a roundup of the top business stories coming out of Malaysia today.
Semiconductors Prioritized
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has declared the semiconductor industry a national priority. This initiative aims to boost economic growth and solidify Malaysia's position as a global leader in technology. The announcement coincides with a major UK chip maker planning to establish its first South-east Asian office in Kuala Lumpur, signaling significant international investment and confidence in Malaysia's tech sector. This move is expected to create jobs and drive innovation within the country.
"Malaysia should accelerate its efforts to become a global semiconductor manufacturing hub," said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, highlighting the importance of this sector for the nation's future.
Fuel Prices Adjusted
Motorists in Peninsular Malaysia will see a slight change at the pump. The prices of RON97 and diesel have decreased by 5 sen. However, prices for RON95 and diesel remain unchanged in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan. This adjustment reflects ongoing fluctuations in the global oil market.
Unclaimed Funds Reach RM12.7 Billion
The Accountant-General’s Department (AGD) has reported a staggering RM12.7 billion in unclaimed funds. The Ministry of Finance (MoF) is urging Malaysians to check the eGUMIS online platform to see if they have any forgotten money waiting to be claimed. These funds often result from overpayments, account closures, or other administrative errors. The government is encouraging citizens to regularly check their eGUMIS accounts to recover any funds due to them.
Tasik Kenyir Tragedy
In unfortunate news, a raft house entrepreneur at Tasik Kenyir suffered an estimated loss of RM3 million after a devastating fire destroyed their floating accommodation, along with jet skis and boats. Local authorities are investigating the cause of the fire. The incident raises concerns about the safety and sustainability of floating accommodation ventures in the area.
Finally, the Bursa market ended higher today after a sell-off, as investors engaged in bargain hunting. Market sentiment remains cautious due to concerns about the potential impact of US tariffs on China for Malaysian companies.