Bursa Malaysia extended its rally to a fresh multi-year high. The FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (KLCI) jumped 1.55% to close at 1,771.25, up 27.18 points from the previous close of 1,744.07. The index opened at 1,749.25. It hit a high of 1,771.25 and a low of 1,749.10. Gains came from blue-chip buying in banking and property. Foreign inflows and a firmer ringgit boosted sentiment. Trading volume was strong. Gainers outnumbered losers.
Movers and Shakers
The KLCI’s surge came from financials and property. For example, banking stocks led. Top gainers included:
- Maybank: Up 0.9% on inflows.
- CIMB Holdings: Rose 0.8% in financials.
- Public Bank Bhd: Gained 1.6% amid resilience.
- Hong Leong Bank: Added 1.1% on sector strength.
- Press Metal: Hit RM7.40 high on demand.
On the other hand, losers hit plantations. Petronas Chemicals eased on volatility. High-volume actives included PMETAL and SPSETIA. Analysts target 1,810 by end-2026 on 8.5% growth.
Policy Changes Impacting KLCI and Malaysia’s Market
Domestically, OPR held at 2.75%. This aids stability. The 13MP pushes digital reforms. Budget 2026 expands SST and e-invoicing. Green incentives target 4.5% GDP. GEAR-uP seeks RM120 billion investments. NIMP 2030 lifts tech. Carbon tax supports ESG.
Globally, US tariffs at 19% on Malaysia. But exemptions for semiconductors help. October 2025 deal eases risks. Growth at 4.3-4.5%. Ringgit stability aids flows. IMF notes AI risks and 3.8% inflation. New deals offset tensions.
Other News Potentially Impacting KLCI or Malaysia’s Market
- Ringgit Strength: Hit five-year high below RM4/USD. This boosts sentiment.
- GDP Data: 2025 hit 4.9%. Q4 surged 5.7%. 2026 outlook: 4.3-4.5%.
- Sector Themes: AI/data centers make Malaysia a hub. Renewables see M&A. Sukuk issuance high.
- Broader Risks: Trade frictions add uncertainty. Fed pause looms. Yet, reforms buffer.
Overall, KLCI shows strength in 2026. Reforms and inflows support it. Still, monitor tariffs.