Malaysia Holds Rates Amid Global Rate Hike Risks

Bank Negara Malaysia is expected to keep the overnight policy rate (OPR) unchanged at 2.75 per cent this week, according to UOB Global Economics & Markets Research.

The decision comes as inflation concerns revive rate-hike risks among several major central banks, including those in New Zealand and the eurozone.

Economist Lee Sue Ann pointed to resilient domestic demand, ongoing government policy support, continued artificial intelligence (AI) and data centre-related investments, and sustained tourism activity as factors supporting Malaysia's economy.

Bank Negara is scheduled for its fifth of six MPC meetings this year, with the OPR having remained at 2.75 per cent since July 2025.