Italy to Invest RM8.13 Billion in Malaysia as Corporate Loans Surge in May

July 4, 2025

Malaysia strengthens its global economic ties while May loan data shows strong momentum in corporate financing.

🇲🇾 Malaysia News Highlights

Italy Confirms Major Investment in Malaysia

Following PM Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to Rome, Malaysia has secured potential investments worth RM8.13 billion. The investments span across multiple sectors including petrochemicals, services, oil & gas, and machinery.
Additionally, RM425 million in potential exports were generated, targeting renewable energy, feedstocks, and oleochemicals.

Key highlights:

Meeting with over 100 business leaders in Rome.
Trade between Malaysia and Italy grew 3.3% year-on-year in early 2025.
Italy remains Malaysia’s 5th largest EU trading partner.

Malaysia’s Loan Growth Surges in May

According to CIMB Securities:

Loan approvals rose 15.8% YoY, driven by auto, construction & credit card lending.
Overall loan growth at 5.3% YoY in May 2025.
Deposit growth slowed to 2.7% YoY, mainly due to weaker savings account inflow.
Impaired loans increased slightly, but the overall ratio remains stable at 1.45%.

Banks with strong performance outlooks include: