Kuala Lumpur, 12 August 2026 – Bank Negara Malaysia has urged financial institutions to look beyond traditional credit assessment frameworks, cautioning that viable small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) continue to face financing barriers due to rigid collateral demands and limited credit histories.
Delivering a special address at the 31st Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Bhd (CGC) Awards, Bank Negara Malaysia Governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour stated that young enterprises and asset-light firms often possess strong cash flows, sound order books, and credible market prospects that standard underwriting metrics fail to capture. He emphasized that these businesses are not inherently unviable, but rather less viable when viewed through a conventional lending lens, highlighting the necessity for enhanced risk-sharing mechanisms.
Unlock the Full Article
This article is exclusive to The Ledger Asia Subsribers / PAID members.
Already have an account? Log in here

