The Central Bank of Malaysia held its key interest rate unchanged at 2.75% for a third consecutive meeting in January 2026, marking its first monetary policy decision of the year and in line with market expectations. The board said the decision was appropriate and supportive of economic growth amid stable prices. Headline and core inflation averaged 1.4% and 2.0%, respectively, in 2025. Looking ahead, headline inflation is expected to remain moderate in 2026 amid continued easing in global cost pressures, while core inflation is projected to stay stable and close to its long-term average. Preliminary data showed the economy grew 4.9% in 2025, slowing from 5.1% in 2024. Growth momentum is expected to continue in 2026, supported by resilient domestic demand. However, the outlook remains uncertain, particularly amid evolving global developments. The MPC said it will continue to monitor ongoing conditions and assess the balance of risks to the outlook for domestic growth and inflation.
