KUALA LUMPUR: Despite persistent global uncertainties and external shocks, Malaysia’s initial public offering (IPO) market is expected to remain resilient with continued listings throughout the year, said Bursa Malaysia chairman Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar.
He acknowledged the prevailing turbulence in the global economy stemming from fluctuating tariffs, policy shifts and geopolitical tensions.
“On global headwinds and turbulence, we do not really know what will be coming next because of what is being implemented and adjusted. However, the importance is on building resilience among Malaysian companies and the broader economy.
“What is important for us is to ensure we create resilience among companies in Malaysia. That is something we need to do more on,” he told reporters at the Bursa Malaysia, Economic Club Kuala Lumpur and CIMB roundtable today.
Abdul Wahid said central to this effort is the Public Listed Companies Transformation Programme, which was launched three years ago to enhance their fundamentals and performance.
“The programme now includes 326 companies, representing 64% of the total market capitalisation. It focuses on five key areas, including being purpose-driven, improving performance, enhancing ethics, prioritising environmental, social and governance and deepening investor engagement,” he noted.
The Bursa chairman expressed optimism on strong fundamentals, companies can mitigate the impact of external shocks. “If listed companies continue to focus on their fundamentals and performance, the effects of externalities can be minimised,” he said.
Abdul Wahid also addressed concerns about how current uncertainties may affect the IPO pipeline.
“Last year, we successfully listed 55 companies. This year, we are targeting 60. So far, 15 companies have been listed – two on the Main Market and 13 on the ACE Market. Another company, MSG Global Bhd, will be listed on April 15, bringing the total to 16,” he said.
He added that some companies have opted to delay their listings slightly due to current market conditions, citing ‘a bit of an extension in timeline’ for some IPOs.
However, Abdul Wahid said he remains optimistic, adding that in the coming months, once market conditions stabilise and there is greater clarity on external developments, many of these companies will proceed with their IPOs.
On the issue of US tariffs and their sector-specific impact, he said the effects vary depending on the industry.
“In sectors like electronics, there are still many exemptions, so the impact is currently minimal. But the volatility and policy changes create uncertainty, particularly in terms of production and order flows.”
Looking ahead to Malaysia’s participation in trade discussions in Washington on April 23, Abdul Wahid reiterated the importance of maintaining a balanced diplomatic and trade stance.
“It is crucial for Malaysia to continue positioning itself as a neutral country, not aligned to any single bloc. We must engage with all parties and continue expanding Asean and bilateral trade relations. Any decisions in international negotiations must be grounded in Malaysia’s national interest. Whatever we manage must be based on the interest of Malaysia as a country,” he said.
