Anwar welcomes OPR reduction to 2.75pc as a ‘prudent and proactive’ move in response to global economic challenges

KUALA LUMPUR, July 10 — Bank Negara Malaysia’s (BNM) move to cut the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) by 25 basis points to 2.75 per cent has been described by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as a prudent and proactive step amid ongoing global economic headwinds.

Anwar said the Monetary Policy Committee’s (MPC) decision was made following careful evaluation of current economic conditions and inflation outlook.

“Despite challenges in the export sector, the government has introduced various support measures, such as the Financing Guarantee Scheme for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and efforts to tap into new markets,” he shared in a post on X yesterday.

The MPC had announced the 25-basis-point reduction to 2.75 per cent yesterday — a level last seen in March 2023 before the central bank raised it to three per cent in May of that year.

Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, added that ongoing reforms under the Madani Economy framework continue to enhance Malaysia’s economic resilience. As of May 2025, inflation had eased to 1.2 per cent — the lowest in 51 months — while labour force participation hit a record high of 70.8 per cent.

“We must continue pushing forward with reforms to shape the country’s future. Despite the challenges, we have space to grow through better governance, bold innovation, and strong determination,” he said. — Bernama