KUALA LUMPUR — The Finance Ministry (MOF) will collaborate with the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) to assess mechanisms related to the pricing of imported goods, following the recent strengthening of the ringgit.
Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan explained that the ringgit had appreciated by approximately 14% against the US dollar since the start of last year, and by about 6.5 to 7% against other major currencies.
“The strengthening of the ringgit is beneficial for imported goods, and the current challenge is ensuring that importers pass on the lower costs to consumers,” he said in a press conference after attending a walkabout at the MADANI Adopted Village programme in Kampung Pulau Betong.
Amir Hamzah added that while efforts are underway to monitor potential reductions in the prices of imported goods, not all price reductions are expected due to increased costs in recent years. A careful balance between current market conditions and existing cost structures is necessary, he noted.
On Malaysia’s economic outlook, Amir Hamzah pointed to data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), which revealed a resilient economy with a 6.3 per cent growth in the fourth quarter and 5.2 per cent for the entire year—among the highest in ASEAN.
“The economic performance reflects the success of the government’s comprehensive reforms, including social protection measures and targeted interventions aimed at ensuring that the benefits of growth are widely shared,” he said.
He also highlighted that the stronger ringgit and improved economic performance have contributed to greater public confidence, citing increased consumer spending and mobility as indicators of stronger purchasing power and economic stability.
Despite the positive outlook, Amir Hamzah emphasised that the government’s focus remains on long-term efforts to further strengthen the economy, attract quality investments, and ensure that development benefits reach the people through initiatives like the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme. – February 15, 2026