KUALA LUMPUR, June 30 (Xinhua) -- Malaysian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remain optimistic about their business prospects in 2026 despite persistent cost pressures, although smaller firms are becoming more cautious amid economic uncertainties, a study revealed on Monday.
According to the UOB Business Outlook Study 2026, 77 percent of SMEs maintained a positive business outlook this year. However, nearly three in ten businesses continue to face rising operating expenses, higher labor costs and increased interest rates, driving a greater focus on cost management.
Energy management has emerged as a key priority, with around three in four businesses viewing it as important to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Among manufacturers, engineering and industrial firms, 84 percent said energy management was a priority.
Key priorities include reducing energy consumption (48 percent), lowering energy costs (44 percent), and ensuring a stable, reliable energy supply for their operations (40 percent).
UOB Malaysia chief executive officer Ng Wei Wei said rising energy and fuel costs continued to weigh on businesses, making energy efficiency an increasingly practical strategy. ■
