• Macro- and socio-economic topics surrounding structural reforms to be discussed by experts in 24 sessions with over 1,000 participants.
• 13 low-income microentrepreneurs who have benefitted from the iTEKAD social finance programme showcased their products.

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM)’s Sasana Symposium 2024 (SS2024) spotlights the whole-of-nation support in the implementation of critical structural reforms over a two-day conference held at Sasana Kijang.

Minister of Finance II YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan emphasised the Government’s commitment to structural reforms in his keynote address. He says, “These structural reforms are already in motion to capitalise on new growth opportunities, foster long-term development, and strengthen resilience against future shocks while seizing emerging opportunities. While these are naturally complex undertakings, we are fully invested in working with all parties to deliver them.”

Bank Negara Malaysia Governor Datuk Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour said, “The case for reforms is very clear. Policymakers now have a clearer view of the path towards a more competitive and inclusive Malaysia. The current period of relative macroeconomic stability provides us with a unique window of opportunity to pursue meaningful reforms and build a brighter future. We need to come together to make reforms a reality for Malaysia.”

Sasana Symposium is BNM’s flagship annual conference. This year, the conference is held over two days to broaden the discussions of key macro- and socio-economic issues and benefit more participants. There are 24 Panel Sessions, Fireside Chats, and Workshops featuring panellists, including ministers, Government officials, economists, academicians, leaders from the industry and civil society. Find out more about the programme at bnm.gov.my/ss2024.

One key highlight at SS2024 is the showcase of microentrepreneurs who benefitted from the iTEKAD social finance programme. 13 businesses supported by various financial institutions showcased their products and offerings at SS2024. iTEKAD has provided blended financing and training to over six thousand low-income microentrepreneurs to expand their businesses.

In conjunction with BNM’s 65th anniversary, SS2024 also features an immersive exhibition highlighting the BNM’s rich history in promoting Malaysia's monetary and financial stability.

As a side-event at SS2024, the exhibition “Never Too Late: Make Hay While the Sun Shines” was also launched. The exhibition aims to inculcate the habit of saving and raise financial awareness among Malaysians. It runs until 31 January 2025 at Level 2, BNM Museum and Art Gallery. 

BNM Governor Datuk Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour delivering his Welcoming Address at the Sasana Symposium 2024

BNM Governor Datuk Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour and Minister of Finance II YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan officiating the Sasana Symposium 2024

BNM Governor Datuk Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour and Minister of Finance II YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan visiting the immersive exhibition at Sasana Symposium 2024

BNM Governor Datuk Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour and Minister of Finance II YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan engaging one of the beneficiaries of iTEKAD at the iTEKAD Marketplace

BNM Governor Datuk Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour and Minister of Finance II YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan launching the ‘Never Too Late: Make Hay While the Sun Shines’ exhibition at BNM Museum and Art Gallery