KUALA LUMPUR: The Capital Market Masterplan (CMP) 2026 to 2030, launched on Monday, is a positive and timely roadmap aimed at deepening Malaysia’s capital market while expanding its size significantly over the long term, an economist says.
IPPFA Sdn Bhd director and economist Mohd Sedek Jantan said it is strategically important to focus on diversifying funding sources, developing alternative assets and strengthening sustainable finance.
“These initiatives could help attract more capital into the domestic market, improving liquidity and creating a more vibrant capital market ecosystem.
“The stronger focus on private credit could provide an alternative funding channel that supports local businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that may face constraints in accessing traditional bank financing,” he told Bernama.
He said the CMP also would help to position Malaysia as a regional investment hub by leveraging initiatives such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone to attract global asset managers and strengthen cross-border investment flows.
“Malaysia’s strong foundation in Islamic finance should also be enhanced through more sophisticated products to compete globally and attract both Ultra-High-Net-Worth and international investors.
“Simultaneously, reducing entry barriers for new capital market players, particularly local firms, would help deepen the ecosystem and improve market competitiveness.”
Mohd Sedek said the masterplan can also improve initial public offering pathways, making Malaysia a more efficient market for companies seeking to go public.
“The CMP would encourage asset managers to develop new investment strategies focused on local markets and SMEs, helping channel institutional capital into domestic growth sectors.”
