Economic Studies Press

Ringgit well supported despite OPR cut

Prof. Yeah Kim Leng says the local unit came under pressure due to the Covid-19 virus outbreak and could have seen the worst once the new government is constituted

RM20 billion package 鈥榠nsurance鈥 for Malaysia

Prof. Yeah Kim Leng states that the economic stimulus package exceeded the forecast of the private sector on the impact of Covid-19 on the Malaysian economy.

A booster shot that 鈥榟its the nail on the head鈥

Prof. Yeah Kim Leng assumes the package has to be funded entirely through borrowings, Malaysia鈥檚 debt level will only be raised by a minimal 0.2% of GDP from the current 70% level.

Tax reliefs and loan deferrals in Covid-19 stimulus package?

Prof. Yeah Kim Leng suggests a tax break to stimulate spending in the affected industries and as a relief to cash-strapped firms and businesses would not be an issue 鈥渁s long as it is within prudential limits鈥.

Ringgit will not face extreme volatility thanks to managed float

Professor Dr Yeah Kim Leng mentioned that despite troubles, the currency is unlikely to decline to its worst even after the new government is constituted.

Stimulus package 鈥榗lever鈥, say economists, but employers call it 鈥榤uddled鈥

Prof. Yeah Kim Leng said it was crucial to support low-income households.

Pros and cons to lowering EPF contribution rates

Professor Dr Yeah Kim Leng believes that employees must be given the option to choose whether to lower their contribution rate or keep to the present percentage.

Cover Story: Redefining the M40

Prof. Yeah Kim Leng says it is worth noting that the B40, M40 and T20 thresholds change with the country鈥檚 gross national income.

Ringgit weakens past 4.18 against US dollar amid Asian currencies sell-off

Prof. Yeah Kim Leng opined that weaker currencies are inevitable due to the low interest environment with widened fiscal deficits as stimulus packages are being rolled out.

Business sector shares proposals

Prof. Yeah Kim Leng hopes the economic stimulus package would ensure a 鈥淢alaysians helping Malaysia鈥 approach to spur domestic demand.

Consumers get lower borrowing cost, more cash with OPR cut

Prof. Yeah Kim Leng mentions that said for individuals and businesses that have bank loans with variable interest rates, the OPR cut will translate into lower interest servicing payments.

Inject fast track measures to boost consumer spending, says economist

Prof Yeah Kim Leng recommended a general stimulus package to boost spending although he wasn't keen on the proposed reduction of the Sales and Services Tax (SST).