KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the ringgit’s strength is underpinned by positive economic data, reflecting growing confidence in Malaysia’s economic system.
During a session of Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat, Anwar emphasised that the currency’s appreciation is part of broader improvements in the country’s economy, including rising investments, increased incomes, and lower unemployment.
“The strengthening of the ringgit should not be viewed in isolation; it must also be considered alongside rising investment, incomes, and lower unemployment,” he explained, as quoted by Bernama.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, was responding to a supplementary question from Datuk Dr Ku Abd Rahman Ku Ismail (PN-Kubang Pasu), who had asked about the factors behind the ringgit’s gains against the US dollar and its impact on the nation’s exports and imports.
He reassured the House that the currency’s strength has not disrupted trade flows, adding that the government remains committed to reinforcing the economy, managing economic policies, reducing the deficit, and attracting investment.
“Normally, a stronger ringgit brings positive effects, although there are minor concerns because it relates to the export and import of goods. But overall, no country wants its currency to weaken or fall below its intrinsic value,” Anwar said.
As of 8 am on Tuesday, the ringgit was trading at 3.9650/9750 against the US dollar, slightly up from 3.9615/9670 at the previous day’s close. This is the highest level for the currency since May 2018. – January 27, 2026