What is the role of the Central Bank of Malaysia in monetary policy in Malaysia?

Economics Monetary Policy Questions Medium



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What is the role of the Central Bank of Malaysia in monetary policy in Malaysia?

The Central Bank of Malaysia, also known as Bank Negara Malaysia, plays a crucial role in formulating and implementing monetary policy in Malaysia. Its primary objective is to maintain price stability and promote sustainable economic growth in the country.

One of the key roles of the Central Bank of Malaysia in monetary policy is the control and regulation of the money supply. It uses various tools and instruments to influence the amount of money circulating in the economy. By adjusting interest rates, reserve requirements, and open market operations, the central bank can influence the availability and cost of credit, which in turn affects the level of economic activity and inflation.

Another important role of the central bank is to manage the exchange rate of the Malaysian currency, the Ringgit. It intervenes in the foreign exchange market to stabilize the value of the Ringgit and ensure its competitiveness in international trade. This helps to maintain external stability and support the country's export-oriented economy.

The Central Bank of Malaysia also acts as a lender of last resort, providing liquidity to banks and financial institutions during times of financial distress. It ensures the stability of the banking system and safeguards the overall financial stability of the country.

Additionally, the central bank plays a crucial role in supervising and regulating the banking and financial sector. It sets prudential regulations and conducts regular inspections to ensure the soundness and stability of financial institutions. This helps to maintain public confidence in the banking system and protect the interests of depositors and investors.

Overall, the Central Bank of Malaysia plays a pivotal role in formulating and implementing monetary policy to achieve price stability, promote sustainable economic growth, maintain financial stability, and safeguard the overall well-being of the Malaysian economy.