Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) Engages FSSH students at UTM

wmohdazam@utm.my

JOHOR BAHRU, 28 May 2024 – The Central Bank of Malaysia (BNM) organized an informative session for students from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH) at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Johor Bahru. The event, held on the university’s campus, aimed to enhance financial literacy and awareness among the youth. Dr. Ruzanna Shahrin from the School of Human Resource Development and Psychology (SHARPS), FSSH, UTM, directed the session.

APC — The delegation from BNM and UTM organizing team pose for a group photo outside Bangunan Canseleri Sultan Ibrahim, UTM

The “Sembang Santai bersama BNM” program began with the arrival of a delegation from BNM led by Mr. Aznan Abdul Aziz, Assistant Governor of BNM. The event continued with welcoming remarks by Prof. Dr. Siti Aisyah Panatik, Deputy Dean (Academic and Student Affairs), FSSH, and an inauguration by Prof. Ts. Dr. Intan Zaurah Mat Darus, Chair of the School of Undergraduate Studies (UGS), UTM.

APC — A discussion featuring BNM representatives covered various topics related to financial literacy and awareness.

At the beginning of the session, Mr. Aznan provided a comprehensive overview of BNM’s background and its role as the nation’s central bank. The session focused on various current economic issues and trends, including an explanation of the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR), a crucial monetary policy instrument used by BNM to influence interest rates and manage the country’s economic growth and inflation. Mr. Aznan also emphasized the importance of financial literacy by sharing practical tips and strategies for effective financial management. He highlighted the need for young individuals to develop sound financial habits early on to build a secure future.

APC — The Assistant Governor of BNM, Mr. Aznan, addressed the audience during the engagement session at UTM.

Addressing the prevalent scams, BNM highlighted its awareness programs and the resources available through social media platforms such as the ‘Amaran Scam’ Facebook page. Mr. Aznan stressed the importance of protecting personal information, being cautious when clicking links, and the grave consequences of engaging in mule accounts, which can facilitate illegal activities. He also highlighted BNM’s internship opportunities for students and recruitment programs, such as ‘The Kijang Graduate Programme’ (KGP), which offer valuable opportunities for aspiring professionals.

APC — The youth engagement session involved students attentively listening to the speaker from BNM.

Moreover, the session emphasized the importance of insurance in offering financial protection from unexpected events. The event ended with an exchange of mementos and a commemorative photo session, signifying the strong partnership between BNM and UTM in fostering financially knowledgeable and responsible youth. Since the youth embody the future of the nation, activities like this engagement session are essential in providing them with the understanding and abilities to navigate the intricate financial environment responsibly and make well-informed decisions.