Malaysia’s leading index rises 0.5pct in March

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s leading index climbed 0.5 per cent year-on-year in March to 113.3 points from 112.7 points last year, according to the Statistics Department (DOSM).

Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said the increase was driven by the expansion of three out of seven components, with the number of housing units approved recording the highest growth at 32.2 per cent.

“On the other hand, real import of semiconductors recorded a decline of 22.6 per cent, in line with more moderate external demand, thereby limiting the overall growth of the index,” he said.

Meanwhile, on a monthly basis the leading index recorded a marginal decline of 0.1 per cent, mainly influenced by a moderation in the real Imports of other basic precious and other non-ferrous metals (0.9 per cent).

DOSM said that the long-term smoothed trend of the leading index in March remained below 100.0 points reflecting a moderate growth momentum despite global uncertainty risks, including persistent inflationary pressures.

“Nevertheless, strong domestic economic activity and sustained investment continued to support the national economy in facing external shocks.”

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المصدر: New Straits Times