0758 GMT - Malaysia's export growth is expected to remain supported by key products, despite moderation in February, with electrical and electronics demand driven by AI, 5G and electric vehicles components, Kenanga economists say in a note. Global semiconductor sales are expected to stay strong, supporting Malaysia's semiconductor ecosystem, while higher crude oil and liquefied natural gas prices may support the domestic mining sector, they say. Exports are projected to grow 5.1% in 2026, easing from 6.4% in 2025. Risks include external shocks like U.S. trade policy uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and supply-chain disruptions, they flag. GDP growth is forecasted at 4.5% this year, supported by domestic demand, though heightened external risks may weigh on the outlook. (yingxian.wong@wsj.com)
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
March 19, 2026 03:58 ET (07:58 GMT)
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