KUALA LUMPUR, June 12 (Bernama) -- Selected blue-chip counters trading at attractive valuations helped Bursa Malaysia close higher on Friday, despite cautious market sentiment driven by developments in West Asia, volatility in crude oil prices and uncertainty over the global interest rate outlook. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) rose by 4.10 points or 0.24 per cent to 1,683.63 compared with Thursday's close of 1,679.53. The key index opened 5.34 points stronger at 1,684.87 earlier today and moved between 1,679.72 and 1,685.39 throughout the session. Market breadth was negative, with losers leading gainers 533 to 479, while 561 counters were unchanged, 1,130 untraded and 33 suspended. Turnover fell to 2.79 billion units worth RM2.31 billion from 3.32 billion units worth RM2.88 billion yesterday.
Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) forecasts the economy to expand between 4.0% and 4.8% in 2025, driven by resilient domestic demand, a healthy labour market, and stronger investment activity despite global trade and geopolitical uncertainties.
Key Drivers of Growth:
Domestic demand remains the primary engine, supported by steady employment and policy measures bolstering private consumption.
Investment momentum is expected to accelerate with multi-year infrastructure projects and the rollout of approved investments aligned with national development plans.
External upside may come from successful trade negotiations, robust E&E exports, and a rebound in tourism.
BNM Governor Dato’ Sri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour highlighted that Malaysia is navigating global uncertainties from a position of strength, attributing resilience to ongoing structural reforms and moderate inflation.
Inflation Outlook:
Headline inflation for 2025 is projected at 1.5% to 2.3%, reflecting a more moderate cost environment.
BNM expects limited impact from commodity price volatility and manageable domestic cost conditions.
Policy Implications:
The central bank emphasised that stable prices and steady growth create the right environment to push ahead with structural reforms aimed at making Malaysia’s economy more competitive and future-ready.
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