Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's successful US$1.5 billion global sukuk issuance last week demonstrates investors' confidence in its economic fundamentals, said Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) Governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour. The issuance saw an exceptionally strong response, with demand reaching nearly five times the amount offered.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, investors were willing to commit capital to Malaysia on very favorable terms, with record-low spreads. This indicates a clear vote of confidence in Malaysia's economic fundamentals, its reform agenda, and its commitment to sound economic management, as highlighted by Abdul Rasheed during his keynote address at the opening of the two-day Sasana Symposium 2026 (SS2026).
Themed "Reforms for Resilience: Navigating Uncertainties," SS2026 features discussions on critical economic and financial issues, including economic resilience, wages, cost of living challenges, investments, energy security, Islamic finance, and private healthcare costs.
Meanwhile, Abdul Rasheed revealed that Malaysia has approved RM815 billion in investments over the past two years, almost half of its annual gross domestic product. These investments could create close to 245,000 jobs if fully realized, with many expected to be higher-skilled roles. However, he emphasized that creating jobs is only part of the solution; Malaysians must also be equipped with the skills to fill these positions. Despite progress, more than two-thirds of Malaysians remain employed in low-skilled or mid-skilled roles.
Encouragingly, the share of high-skilled employment in Malaysia increased from 27.5 percent in 2019 to 30.1 percent in 2025. Abdul Rasheed noted that while this progress might seem gradual, structural shifts in the labor market seldom occur overnight. He stressed that as technology and artificial intelligence reshape industries, continuous upskilling and reskilling opportunities will be essential throughout workers' careers.
The event also featured the launch of iTEKAD Employment, the latest program under BNM's iTEKAD social finance initiative. This program aims to support individuals from vulnerable communities in securing stable employment and income.