In today’s deep dive, we unpack the strategic moves shaping Malaysia’s economic future — from EPF payout reforms and smart city contracts to global trade tremors and tech-fueled growth.
As international uncertainties swirl, we zoom in on what it all means for your finances, your investments, and the country’s long-term trajectory.
🇲🇾 Domestic Highlights: Strategy, Stability & Shifts
🔹 EPF Monthly Payout Plan in the WorksMalaysia is considering monthly pension payments — a major retirement policy shift under the 13th Malaysia Plan. It’s designed to provide retirees with predictable income, supporting long-term financial stability in an aging society.
🔹 Gamuda Eyes Global ProjectsShortlisted for major Sydney metro station contracts while bidding for local data center and water infrastructure work. A clear sign of Malaysian expertise going global.
🔹 Chin Hin Group Sells Steel Wire UnitRM70M sale to streamline operations and unlock capital. Similar strategic sharpening seen in DRB-Hicom, which acquired full ownership of its rental property unit, signaling value optimization.
🔹 Smart Cities on the RiseITMAX System secures a RM145M, 20-year smart traffic light deal in Johor Bahru — part of broader ESG-aligned urban transformation.
🔹 Dialog Group Secures 25-Year Pengerang DealStarting 2029, this contract is expected to bring RM10–15M in annual recurring profit — a solid long-term income stream.
🔹 Vertical Integration: CAB Cakaran Acquires Feed SupplierRM231M cash deal to purchase Cargill’s feed business, giving the poultry group tighter control over costs and quality.
🔹 Tax Challenges for TNBFacing RM1.4B in backdated tax claims related to reinvestment allowances. Outcome could significantly impact earnings.
🔹 Bursa Listing: Integration Debuts at RM5Singapore-based precision engineering firm dual-lists in Malaysia, offering exposure to semiconductors and aerospace.
🔹 Renewable Momentum: FIT Projects ExpandSamaiden Group, Asia Poly, and HeiTech Padu secure biomass, biogas, and hydro projects under the Feed-in-Tariff program. All slated to come online by 2030.
🌏 Global Trends & Trade Tensions
🔹 Malaysia–Singapore RTS2 ProposedPlans for a second cross-border rail link between Tuas and Iskandar Puteri signal deepening integration and regional economic ambition.
🔹 US Tariff Decision PendingPresident Trump to announce Malaysia’s new tariff rate — a pivotal moment for exporters and businesses alike. Market watchers are bracing for impact.
🔹 Oil Markets Hold Steady Amid Tariff JittersDespite a surprise rise in US crude stockpiles, oil prices remain firm as traders weigh geopolitical risks and trade policy uncertainty.
🔹 Taiwan’s AI-Led Growth SurgeQ2 GDP posts fastest growth in four years, driven by AI chip demand. A powerful example of tech reshaping economies, even amid trade threats.
🔹 China Moves to Stabilize YuanCentral bank intervention aims to curb volatility against the USD, part of a regional trend of currency defense amid trade turbulence.
🔹 US Inflation Edges Up (PCE at 2.6%)The Fed holds rates but watches closely as tariffs may push up costs, complicating monetary policy choices.
🎧 Listen Now for a deep dive into Malaysia’s financial gems and global trends shaping 2025!
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