Malaysia’s GDP growth for Q2 looks healthy

In brief, Malaysia’s GDP is growing pretty healthily. It’s supported by domestic demand (most important!). Sentiments improving. Financial institutions have sound overall asset quality and profitability. Exports should grow as the global growth is improving too. Inflation is still above the usual, at 4 percent. Borrowers still have access to financing to purchase homes. (As long as one qualifies yeah)  Full press release by Bank Negara Malaysia as follows:
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ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENTS IN MALAYSIA IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 2017
The Malaysian economy expanded by 5.8% in the second quarter of 2017 Growth remained supported by domestic demand, particularly private sector spending. From the supply side, the improvement was driven by a broad based expansion across all major sectors. On a quarter-on-quarter seasonally adjusted basis, the economy grew by 1.3% (1Q 2017: 1.8%). Headline inflation declined to 4.0% due mainly to lower domestic fuel prices.
Domestic financial stability was supported by strong institutions and orderly market conditions In line with global trends, overall volatility in the domestic financial markets was low amid improved sentiments. Domestic financial institutions continued to demonstrate sound overall asset quality and profitability. Domestic funding conditions also remained favourable and supportive of financing needs of businesses and households. Eligible borrowers continue to have access to financing to purchase houses but the oversupply in the office space and shopping complex segments continued to depress occupancy rates.
Going forward, the Malaysian economy is expected to grow at above 4.8% in 2017 Given the strong growth in the first half of 2017 at 5.7%, the Malaysian economy is expected to expand by more than 4.8% in 2017. Domestic demand is projected to underpin this expansion. On the external front, exports are expected to benefit from the stronger-than-expected improvement in global growth.
Headline inflation is expected to moderate further in the second half of 2017, reflecting the waning effect of global cost factors. For 2017 as a whole, it is expected to average within the forecast range of 3.0% – 4.0%. The Bank also wishes to feature two issues. The first – “Outcomes of the Reference Rate Framework: Moving Towards More Efficient and Transparent Practices” – highlights the three outcomes that drive the implementation of the framework. The second – “Liberalisation of Motor Insurance Business: Rewarding Good Risk Management” – highlights how equitable pricing for consumers purchasing motor insurance can be achieved under the new operating environment.
Bank Negara Malaysia 18 August 2017
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