Maybank Investment Banking Group (Maybank IBG) has upgraded its gross domestic product growth forecast for Malaysia in 2026 to 4.9%, up from a previous estimate of 4.4%.
The revision reflects a more optimistic outlook on the country's economic trajectory amid a volatile global environment.
18% expansion in the first half of 2026, it missed its double-digit target, and Bangladesh Bank projected a more cautious 6.
The increase of 50 basis points positions Maybank IBG's projection above the 4.6% forecast maintained by IPP Financial Advisers (IPPFA).
This divergence highlights a split in analyst sentiment regarding the strength of domestic demand and external trade flows supporting the Southeast Asian economy.
The upgrade comes as regional peers show mixed growth signals.
While Vietnam reported an 8.18% expansion in the first half of 2026, it missed its double-digit target, and Bangladesh Bank projected a more cautious 6.1% growth for its upcoming fiscal year.