KUALA LUMPUR, 23 September 2025 — Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) reported that its international reserves stood at US$122.8 billion as of 12 September, marking a slight increase from US$122.7 billion recorded at the end of August. The central bank said this level of reserves is sufficient to finance 4.8 months of imports of goods and services and is equivalent to 0.9 times Malaysia’s short-term external debt, underscoring the country’s external resilience at a time of persistent global volatility.
In terms of composition, the reserves include US$109.2 billion in foreign currency assets, along with US$1.3 billion in the IMF reserve position, US$5.9 billion in Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), US$4.1 billion in gold holdings, and US$2.3 billion in other reserve assets. The steady balance of these categories reflects Bank Negara’s diversified holdings and prudent approach in managing external assets.
The central bank also disclosed that its total assets reached RM628.38 billion as of mid-September. Of this, RM519.33 billion was made up of gold, foreign exchange, and SDR holdings, while RM13.42 billion was invested in Malaysian government securities. Deposits placed with financial institutions amounted to RM3.75 billion, while loans and advances totalled RM27.68 billion. Other categories included RM4.57 billion in land and buildings and RM59.61 billion in other assets.
Although the increase from late August was marginal, analysts said the reserves position continues to provide an important buffer for the Malaysian economy, particularly amid shifting global capital flows, currency volatility, and uncertain external demand. By maintaining coverage above four months of imports and nearly matching short-term external obligations, Malaysia demonstrates resilience that could support investor confidence in the ringgit and the broader economy.
The reserves data come as global markets remain watchful of U.S. monetary policy and regional trade conditions. For Malaysia, steady reserve levels provide assurance that the country is well positioned to withstand potential disruptions, whether from geopolitical tensions, energy price fluctuations, or ongoing trade policy changes.
