Malaysia

Anti-Money Laundering

Malaysia Secures Return of Artworks Linked to 1MDB Scandal

By Nithya Subramanian | 17/12/2025

The recovery of high-value artworks from the US underscores Malaysia’s continued cooperation with foreign authorities to reclaim assets tied to 1MDB.

Stablecoins

StanChart to Explore MYR Stablecoin in BNM Regulatory Sandbox

By Manesh Samtani | 15/12/2025

The bank will act as issuer while Capital A Bhd, the parent company of AirAsia, tests wholesale use cases within BNM's innovation hub.

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

SC Malaysia Proposes Overhaul of Corporate Governance Framework

By Nithya Subramanian | 15/12/2025

New discussion paper outlines reforms to strengthen board accountability, enhance disclosures and better protect shareholders.

Nature & Biodiversity

Financial Regulators Failing on Nature Risk Despite Climate Progress, WWF Says

By Manesh Samtani | 12/12/2025

A global assessment finds major gaps in addressing risks from deforestation and water stress, urging APAC regulators to act.

Anti-Money Laundering

FATF Praises AML Reforms in New Mutual Evaluation Report for Malaysia

By Manesh Samtani | 12/12/2025

Malaysia is praised for post-1MDB reforms but must now increase convictions and strengthen sanctions under a three-year action plan.

Stablecoins

Malaysian Royal Launches First Ringgit-backed Stablecoin

By Nithya Subramanian | 10/12/2025

RMJDT, issued by Bullish Aim on the Zetrix national blockchain, aims to boost cross-border ringgit use and attract foreign investment, marking a major step in Malaysia’s digital asset and Web3 strategy.

Clearing & Post-Trade

ASIFMA Urges Caution on APAC T+1 Shift, Citing Major Hurdles

By Manesh Samtani | 09/12/2025

A new industry paper highlights significant FX, operational and regulatory hurdles, calling for collaboration before any move to a shorter settlement cycle.

Structural Regulation

Malaysian Banks Announce Goodwill Discounts for Early Hire-Purchase Settlement

By Nithya Subramanian | 09/12/2025

The industry-wide measure follows a new law abolishing the Rule of 78, aiming to provide fairer treatment for existing borrowers.

Reporting & Disclosures

Malaysia Adopts 'Engage and Correct' Approach for New Sustainability Reporting Rules

By Nithya Subramanian | 09/12/2025

Regulators will prioritise guidance and corrective action for reporting gaps, but will enforce against serious or fraudulent disclosure breaches.