For Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi, who took office last October, the timing could not have been any better. Malaysia’s resurgent economy roared its way into 2004, posting annual growth of 5.2% and putting the country in the top bracket of regional performers.
Low interest rates and high employment helped provide feel-good factors for Malaysia’s general elections held March 21 that were expected to give Mr Badawi the mandate he needs to press on with his programme. Judging by the early signs, many bankers are quietly confident that Malaysia’s economy is on the right track.
