KUALA LUMPUR, May 29 ― Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the government’s plan to introduce a new dimension to its sukuk issuance through the “wakalah bil-khadamat” structure. Speaking at the Global Forum on Islamic Economics and Finance (GFIEF), Anwar emphasized that this initiative, set to be finalized by 2025, aims to enhance Malaysia’s investment ecosystem. The Prime Minister, who also serves as finance minister, highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to innovating sukuk structures to align with climate and energy transition goals, building on previous innovations such as SRI sukuk ihsan structures.
Anwar also revealed significant investments aimed at stimulating the Malaysian economy, including the Retirement Fund (KWAP)’s RM3 billion investment in shariah-compliant investments through Dana Pemacu, and the establishment of Malaysia’s first Social Exchange by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC). Additionally, he highlighted the Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (IBFC)’s Islamic Digital Asset Centre (IDAC) initiative and praised the Islamic banking industry’s RM2.67 billion pledge in secured financing for the halal industry. He encouraged industry players to innovate and take risks to surpass past achievements and harness future potential, particularly in the halal sector.
