Budget 2027 strikes a balance between supporting inclusive economic growth and maintaining fiscal discipline, while strengthening Malaysia’s investment appeal amid geopolitical uncertainty and cost pressures, according to Maybank President and Group CEO Datuk Seri Khairussaleh Ramli.
Khairussaleh, who is also Chairman of The Association of Banks in Malaysia, welcomed the government’s commitment to narrow the fiscal deficit to 3.3% of GDP in 2027 from 3.6% in 2026, putting Malaysia closer to its 3% target by 2028.
He said the Budget’s focus on economic resilience, household and business support, high-value industries and the energy transition should reinforce Malaysia’s long-term competitiveness.
Measures covering affordable homeownership, SME and entrepreneur support, more equitable state development and targeted tax rationalisation would also help broaden participation in economic growth, he added.
Khairussaleh said investments in productivity, technical and vocational education and training, youth development, skills and innovation would be important in preparing Malaysians for new economic opportunities.
From the banking sector’s perspective, he said financial institutions would play a key role in mobilising capital, strengthening investor confidence and expanding access to financing, including microfinancing for SMEs and entrepreneurs.
He also highlighted the need for banks to continue investing in digital innovation, financial literacy and consumer protection against scams.
On Islamic finance, Khairussaleh welcomed efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a global hub, saying Maybank would continue expanding Shariah-compliant financing and investments.
The bank is facilitating about RM22 billion in financing and investment interests within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, aimed at attracting investments and deepening cross-border economic activity.
Khairussaleh also pointed to opportunities arising from government initiatives such as the tokenised retail savings sukuk, which he said could widen investment participation and accelerate financial innovation.
Maybank’s sustainability strategy will meanwhile continue to channel capital into renewable energy, low-carbon solutions and sustainable infrastructure.
The group also welcomed the government’s call for government-linked companies and government-linked investment companies to raise living wages, saying this aligns with the broader focus on employee wellbeing and inclusive growth.
“Maybank stands ready to work alongside the Government, businesses and communities to unlock new opportunities, deepen financial inclusion and build a more competitive, sustainable and prosperous nation,” Khairussaleh said.
