Malaysia

Malaysia’s leadership is forging ahead with plans for entry to the US-led Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) despite domestic concerns that the multilateral trade agreement will negatively impact some domestic sectors and international concerns over delays in its progress.

Malaysia’s transport sector marked a major milestone in early May when a new terminal for the rapidly growing budget air-travel business opened at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).

State agencies and the private sector are combining to promote private pension schemes, both as a measure to strengthen provisions for Malaysians in retirement and to boost liquidity in the nation’s capital markets. However, longer-term success will depend on convincing the younger segments of society of the need to prepare for life after work.

Pressure is mounting on Malaysia’s central bank to tighten loan restrictions after its annual report showed household debt levels inching towards 87% of GDP at the end of 2013. With the highest household debt levels in Asia, demand for credit is driven primarily by the desire to buy properties and vehicles.

Universities in Malaysia have been given a key role in government plans to raise the country to developed-nation status within the decade, but more investments may be necessary if higher education institutions are to meet the targets that have been set by the state.

A cooperation agreement between the bourses of Malaysia and Saudi Arabia – the world's two largest Islamic financial services markets – stands to help the industry grow at a greater clip in both countries.