Malaysia must strengthen fiscal discipline, improve service delivery to attract high‑value investment, says Amir Hamzah

Malaysia’s Finance Minister II, Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, called for stricter fiscal discipline and improved public service delivery to position the country for higher-value investment and growth. Speaking at the Malaysia Institute of Accountants (MIA) International Accountants Conference 2026 in Kuala Lumpur on June 9, he highlighted the need for reform anchored in credibility, accountability, and trust amid global uncertainties. Hamzah noted that geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and climate risks are reshaping economic growth, requiring Malaysia to manage constrained fiscal space efficiently. He stressed that public resources must be used prudently, with assistance targeted effectively and programs delivering measurable outcomes. Businesses were also urged to improve productivity, manage costs, and invest wisely to strengthen resilience. Revenue integrity was identified as critical, with Hamzah emphasizing fair compliance, reduced leakages, and transparent tax administration to ensure fiscal sustainability. The conference, attended by over 4,000 global delegates, served as a platform for discussing economic, technological, and sustainability shifts. MIA, the regulatory body under Malaysia’s Ministry of Finance, also launched the *Industry Guide on Impact Monitoring and Reporting for Islamic Social Finance* during the event. Developed with the World Bank, the guide aims to enhance consistency, transparency, and accountability in Islamic social finance initiatives. The conference underscored the need for strategic collaboration to address global challenges, with Hamzah’s address reinforcing Malaysia’s commitment to economic stability and investor confidence.