by Faiz Riziq | Mar 4, 2025 | Ekonomi, Perniagaan & Korporat, Fakta & Informasi, Kewangan, Keberhutangan & Pelaburan, Luar Negara, English & Other Country
The Malaysian government remains steadfast in its commitment to reducing the fiscal deficit, projecting a decline to 3.8% by 2025. Finance Minister II, Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, emphasized that the Madani government is dedicated to a gradual and consistent approach in lowering the deficit rate—from 5.5% in 2022 to 5% in 2023, followed by 4.1% in 2024.
This strategic deficit reduction is accompanied by a decrease in new debt issuance, with government borrowings reducing from nearly RM100 billion in 2022 to RM92.6 billion in 2023, and further down to approximately RM77 billion in 2024. The government’s efforts are aligned with ensuring the debt-to-GDP ratio remains below 60%, reinforcing economic stability.
Achieving Fiscal Responsibility for a Stronger Economy
According to Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah, the government is on track to meet the fiscal targets outlined in the Public Financial Act and Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2023. The aim is to achieve a 3% deficit by the end of 2028, reinforcing sustainable financial management practices.
To support this goal, the government plans to reduce development expenditure allocation to RM86 billion under Budget 2025. However, economic growth will still be stimulated through:
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Projects valued at RM9 billion.
- Direct Domestic Investments by Government-Linked Investment Companies (GLIC) amounting to RM25 billion.
This strategic approach increases public investment to RM120 billion for 2025, ensuring continuous economic growth while maintaining prudent financial management.
The government’s strong fiscal policies and responsible debt management highlight its dedication to long-term economic stability. With these measures in place, Malaysia is poised to achieve a healthier financial outlook while fostering growth and investment in key sectors.
by Faiz Riziq | Mar 3, 2025 | Ekonomi, Perniagaan & Korporat, Fakta & Informasi, Luar Negara, English & Other Country
For the past 50 years, PETRONAS has been at the forefront of the energy industry, pioneering innovation and transformation. Now, in its efforts to accelerate the transition towards clean and sustainable energy, PETRONAS has formed a strategic partnership with the United Kingdom-based Energy Institute (EI). This makes PETRONAS the first Southeast Asia-headquartered company to establish a technical partnership with EI to accelerate the global energy transition in a fair and inclusive manner.
PETRONAS’ Commitment to Energy Transition
This collaboration aims to drive innovation in energy efficiency and decarbonization by implementing the latest strategies and technologies.
“Through innovative technologies, decarbonization strategies, and global best practices, this partnership aims to enhance safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility across the energy industry,” said Ir Mohd Yusri Mohamed Yusof, PETRONAS Senior Vice President of Project Delivery and Technology.
Echoing the sentiment, EI CEO Dr. Nick Wayth emphasized that this collaboration will help accelerate the global energy transition.
“As a major global energy player, PETRONAS brings exceptional expertise and experience to accelerate the Net Zero agenda,” he said.
Benefits of the PETRONAS and Energy Institute Partnership
This partnership will enable stakeholders in the energy sector to make well-informed, data-driven strategic decisions. By integrating EI’s technical expertise with PETRONAS’ deep industry insights, this collaboration is expected to bring significant transformation to the global energy sector.
“Our goal is to support the Asian region in navigating the complexities of the energy transition with confidence and clarity,” added Ir Mohd Yusri.
Additionally, the partnership will focus on developing the next generation of energy professionals. Education, training, and leadership in sustainable energy practices will be prioritized to ensure continuous development in clean energy.
PETRONAS’ Pioneering Projects & Sustainable Technologies
PETRONAS has achieved key milestones through various innovative projects:
- Kasawari Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Capable of reducing 3.3 million tons of CO2 emissions annually, marking a major step towards decarbonization.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability.
- Green Energy: Focused on hydrogen, renewable energy, and bio-based solutions to shape a cleaner energy future.
With Asia being the fastest-growing region influencing global energy trends, PETRONAS emphasizes the importance of collaboration to ensure a fair energy transition.
Energy Asia 2025: A Platform for Energy Transformation in Kuala Lumpur
As part of its efforts, PETRONAS will host Energy Asia 2025, in collaboration with Knowledge Partner CERAWeek by S&P Global, from June 16 to 18, 2025, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. With the theme ‘Delivering Asia’s Energy Transition’, this event will serve as a crucial platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and energy experts to discuss practical solutions for Asia’s energy challenges.
“We must turn dialogue into action and collaboration into a collective movement. The future of our planet depends on it,” urged Ir Mohd Yusri. Through strategic partnerships and technological innovation, PETRONAS continues to lead the energy industry towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
by Faiz Riziq | Mar 3, 2025 | Ekonomi, Perniagaan & Korporat, Fakta & Informasi
Malaysia bakal menerima suntikan pelaburan baharu daripada gergasi semikonduktor dunia, ARM Holdings Plc, yang berhasrat untuk berpangkalan di negara ini. Perjanjian rasmi dijangka akan dimeterai minggu depan, menurut Perdana Menteri Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar, yang juga Menteri Kewangan, mendedahkan bahawa beliau telah mengadakan perbincangan secara dalam talian pagi tadi dengan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif ARM Holdings, disertai oleh Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif SoftBank Group Corp, Masayoshi Son. SoftBank merupakan syarikat pemegangan pelaburan multinasional terkemuka dari Jepun yang memiliki ARM Holdings.
“Insya-Allah, minggu depan kita dapat selesaikan dan perjanjian akan ditandatangani,” kata Anwar kepada media selepas merasmikan Majlis Peletakan Logo Malaysia MADANI di rangkaian Restoran Nasi Kandar Putrajaya hari ini.
ARM: Gergasi Semikonduktor Pilih Malaysia
Dalam ucapannya selepas solat Jumaat di Masjid Sekolah Sultan Alam Shah, Perdana Menteri menekankan bahawa ARM merupakan syarikat cemerlang dalam reka bentuk dan pembikinan semikonduktor di peringkat global.
“ARM memilih untuk berpangkalan di Malaysia, syukur Alhamdulillah,” katanya dengan penuh optimisme.
Anwar juga menegaskan bahawa pelaburan berprofil tinggi ini hanya dapat direalisasikan kerana Malaysia menawarkan kestabilan politik serta dasar ekonomi yang jelas dan kondusif untuk perniagaan antarabangsa.
Cabaran & Peluang untuk Tenaga Kerja Malaysia
Namun, Perdana Menteri turut mengingatkan bahawa kehadiran syarikat gergasi seperti ARM membawa cabaran tersendiri, khususnya dalam memastikan tenaga kerja muda yang profesional dan berkemahiran tinggi mencukupi untuk memenuhi keperluan industri ini.
“Ini ujian besar, apakah kita boleh menyediakan puluhan ribu anak muda profesional?” katanya.
Menurut beliau, tenaga kerja profesional adalah tunjang utama bagi menarik lebih banyak pelaburan berkualiti tinggi ke Malaysia.
Siapa ARM Holdings?
ARM Holdings Plc ialah syarikat reka bentuk semikonduktor dan perisian yang berpangkalan di Cambridge, England. Syarikat ini terkenal dengan reka bentuk unit pemprosesan pusat (CPU) yang menggunakan seni bina set arahan ARM, teknologi yang digunakan dalam kebanyakan peranti mudah alih dan komputer di seluruh dunia.
Dengan langkah ARM memilih Malaysia sebagai hab operasinya, negara ini berpotensi menjadi pusat penting dalam industri semikonduktor global, membuka peluang pekerjaan bernilai tinggi serta memperkukuh kedudukan Malaysia sebagai destinasi utama pelaburan teknologi.
by Faiz Riziq | Feb 28, 2025 | Ekonomi, Perniagaan & Korporat, Fakta & Informasi
Dalam usaha menangani isu trafik yang semakin meruncing di ibu kota, Malaysia kini sedang meneliti pelaksanaan caj kesesakan di Kuala Lumpur. Langkah ini dijangka mampu mengurangkan kesesakan trafik sehingga 20%, seperti yang dinyatakan dalam semakan mengikut notis Parlimen. Namun, kadar caj yang bakal dikenakan perlu ditetapkan pada kadar berpatutan agar tidak menghalang matlamat utama dasar ini.
Kajian Terperinci Demi Keberkesanan
Menurut Menteri Wilayah, Dr. Zaliha, penetapan kadar caj ini memerlukan penelitian rapi bagi memastikan pelaksanaannya benar-benar memberi kesan positif kepada pengurusan trafik di bandar raya. Objektif utama adalah mengurangkan beban lalu lintas tanpa membebankan pengguna jalan raya secara berlebihan.
Keperluan Integrasi Pengangkutan Awam
Setakat ini, kerajaan berpendirian bahawa caj kesesakan hanya akan diterapkan di bandar raya yang mempunyai sistem pengangkutan awam yang lengkap dan bersepadu. Ini bermakna kawasan yang masih kekurangan akses kepada pengangkutan awam tidak akan terlibat dalam pelaksanaan ini. Pelaksanaan awal akan dirangka berdasarkan Pelan Induk Trafik KL 2040, yang memberi tumpuan kepada penyelesaian kesesakan trafik pada waktu puncak dan kesannya terhadap sistem pengangkutan awam sedia ada.
Impak Ekonomi dan Keperluan Penyelesaian Segera
Kesesakan lalu lintas di Malaysia bukan sekadar isu keselesaan, tetapi juga membawa impak besar kepada ekonomi negara. Laporan menunjukkan bahawa negara mengalami kerugian sehingga RM20 bilion setahun akibat kelewatan dan ketidakcekapan dalam pergerakan trafik. Oleh itu, pelaksanaan caj kesesakan dilihat sebagai satu langkah strategik bagi mengurangkan kesan negatif ini dan meningkatkan kecekapan sistem pengangkutan secara keseluruhan.
Secara keseluruhannya, kajian dan perancangan rapi diperlukan sebelum langkah ini dilaksanakan sepenuhnya. Dengan infrastruktur pengangkutan awam yang lebih baik dan sistem caj yang efektif, usaha ini diharapkan dapat memberikan impak positif kepada kehidupan rakyat serta ekonomi negara.
by Faiz Riziq | Feb 28, 2025 | Ekonomi, Perniagaan & Korporat, Fakta & Informasi
Hutang isi rumah di Malaysia terus menunjukkan peningkatan yang membimbangkan, dengan jumlah keseluruhan mencecah RM1.63 trilion pada akhir tahun lalu. Ini bersamaan dengan 84.2% daripada Keluaran Dalam Negara Kasar (KDNK), menandakan satu kadar yang tinggi dan memerlukan pemantauan rapi.
Pemantauan Ketat oleh Kerajaan dan Bank Negara
Dalam menangani isu ini, kerajaan bersama Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) giat memantau trend hutang isi rumah bagi memastikan tidak wujud sebarang kesan negatif terhadap daya tahan kewangan rakyat dan kestabilan sistem kewangan negara. Langkah ini penting untuk mengelakkan risiko ekonomi yang boleh menjejaskan kesejahteraan masyarakat, terutamanya dalam menghadapi cabaran ekonomi global yang semakin mencabar.
Inisiatif Kesedaran Kewangan Diperluaskan
Bagi membantu rakyat lebih memahami kepentingan pengurusan kewangan yang baik, kerajaan telah memperhebatkan kempen kesedaran melalui Financial Education Network (FEN) dan Bulan Literasi Kewangan (FLM). Program-program ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan tahap kesedaran masyarakat mengenai kepentingan merancang kewangan secara bijak serta mengelakkan diri daripada berhutang secara berlebihan.
Rang Undang-Undang Kredit Pengguna: Langkah Pengawalan yang Lebih Ketat
Dalam usaha memperkukuhkan perlindungan terhadap pengguna kredit, kerajaan akan membentangkan Rang Undang-Undang (RUU) Kredit Pengguna dalam sidang Parlimen kali ini. RUU ini bakal menjadi instrumen penting dalam mengawal selia industri kredit dengan lebih sistematik.
Salah satu aspek utama yang diberi perhatian ialah kawal selia terhadap perkhidmatan “Beli Sekarang, Bayar Kemudian” (BNPL), yang semakin popular dalam kalangan pengguna. Selain itu, penyedia perkhidmatan kredit bukan bank juga akan tertakluk kepada peraturan ketat bagi memastikan pengguna tidak terjerumus dalam beban hutang yang melampau.
Kesimpulan
Peningkatan hutang isi rumah di Malaysia perlu diberi perhatian serius oleh semua pihak. Walaupun langkah-langkah kawal selia sedang diperkukuhkan, masyarakat juga perlu memainkan peranan dengan mengamalkan perbelanjaan berhemah dan membuat keputusan kewangan yang bijak. Dengan adanya kesedaran yang lebih tinggi serta perlindungan yang lebih kukuh, diharapkan isu hutang isi rumah dapat dikawal demi kesejahteraan rakyat dan kestabilan ekonomi negara.
by Faiz Riziq | Feb 27, 2025 | Ekonomi, Perniagaan & Korporat, Fakta & Informasi, Luar Negara, English & Other Country
Nvidia Corp, the chip giant at the heart of the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, delivered solid but not spectacular quarterly earnings on Wednesday, leading to a subdued reaction from investors accustomed to record-breaking results.
For the fiscal first quarter ending in April, Nvidia projects sales of about US$43 billion (RM190.49 billion), slightly above analysts’ average estimate of US$42.3 billion. Some had even anticipated figures as high as US$48 billion.
However, the company warned that profit margins would be tighter than expected as it accelerates the rollout of its latest AI chip, Blackwell. Adding to concerns, potential US tariffs could further impact earnings. As a result, Nvidia shares dipped slightly in after-hours trading.
AI Market Faces Uncertainty
The AI industry is at a turning point. Nvidia shares have slipped this year due to fears that data centre operators might cut back on spending. The emergence of Chinese startup DeepSeek has also sparked concerns that AI models can be developed more affordably, reducing the demand for Nvidia’s powerful chips.
Although Nvidia executives addressed many of these concerns, the company is finding it harder to consistently exceed investor expectations. “Guidance was slightly underwhelming,” said Logan Purk, an analyst at Edward Jones. However, the early success of Blackwell should help reassure investors despite initial reports of production delays.
Nvidia’s Rapid Growth
Despite the challenges, Nvidia’s latest financial results reflect its extraordinary growth trajectory. The company generated US$11 billion in revenue from Blackwell in the fourth quarter alone, making it the fastest product ramp in Nvidia’s history. “Demand for Blackwell is amazing,” CEO Jensen Huang said.
Fiscal fourth-quarter sales reached US$39.3 billion, surpassing analysts’ estimates, though by the narrowest margin since early 2023. Meanwhile, profits of 89 cents per share, excluding certain items, narrowly beat Wall Street’s projection of 84 cents.
The stock, which soared in 2023 and 2024, has dipped by 2.2% this year, reflecting concerns about sustaining its meteoric rise. Nonetheless, Nvidia remains the dominant player in AI chips, doubling its revenue over the past two years as major tech companies continue to invest heavily in data centre infrastructure.
The Future of AI and Nvidia’s Role
Nvidia’s data centre division, its largest revenue driver, posted US$35.6 billion in sales, surpassing analysts’ estimates of US$34.1 billion. Gaming-related sales, once Nvidia’s core business, came in at US$2.5 billion—lower than the expected US$3.02 billion. Meanwhile, its automotive unit generated US$570 million in revenue.
Historically known for its graphics processing units (GPUs), Nvidia has become synonymous with AI computing. Its chips are crucial in training AI models and running complex inference processes that power applications like ChatGPT.
Heading into the earnings report, concerns loomed about whether Nvidia could sustain its rapid growth as it transitions to the Blackwell chip. The new technology is more advanced but poses manufacturing challenges. Additionally, DeepSeek’s recent AI model launch raised fears that AI computing could become more efficient, potentially reducing the need for Nvidia’s high-powered chips.
However, major customers like Microsoft continue to invest heavily in AI infrastructure, signaling that demand remains strong. Huang also downplayed concerns about DeepSeek, arguing that its approach to AI will ultimately increase the need for Nvidia’s products. He claimed that the fine-tuning process required for these AI models could exponentially increase computing power demand.
“The future of AI will require much more compute,” Huang said, describing DeepSeek’s model as “an excellent innovation.”
The Road Ahead
While Blackwell is expected to drive Nvidia’s future growth, its rollout has come with costs. The company acknowledged that expenses related to launching the new chip have weighed on profit margins. However, CFO Colette Kress reassured investors that cost efficiencies will improve over time, and gross margins should return to the “mid-70s” percentage by the end of the year.
For the current quarter, Nvidia expects gross margins of around 71%, slightly below analysts’ estimates.
Despite the hurdles, Nvidia has only missed revenue estimates once in the past five years. It has consistently outperformed expectations by more than 10% in recent quarters, setting a high bar for future performance.
“We think it will be challenging for management to continue significantly exceeding expectations for growth,” said Purk.
As Nvidia navigates this evolving landscape, its ability to maintain its AI dominance will depend on execution, innovation, and the continued expansion of AI adoption worldwide.
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