Holds near 12-year highs despite sizeable portfolio outflows
Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) international reserves increased by USD0.9b (+0.7% MoM) to USD130.6b as of 29 May 2026, approaching a 12-year high
- Import cover eased slightly to 4.6 months (Apr: 4.7 months), while the reserves-to-short-term external debt ratio held at 0.9x.
Reserve accumulation driven by higher FX assets
- Foreign currency reserves rose USD0.9b (+0.8% MoM) to USD114.7b, despite sizeable portfolio outflows during the month. Net FX reserves climbed to USD81.1b in April (Mar: USD77.7b), the highest level in nearly four years, as predetermined shortterm foreign currency obligations narrowed to USD32.7b (Mar: USD33.1b), mainly on lower foreign currency loans, securities and deposits.
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