With Malaysia's government debt hitting a record high of over RM1.2 trillion, many of us see an abstract, impossibly large number. But what does this actually mean for our economy, our currency, and our collective future?

Senior Economist Julia Goh from UOB joins us to provide a 101 on government debt. She breaks down why governments borrow, the key warning signs of when a country is borrowing too much, and provides a clear-eyed assessment of Malaysia's current fiscal position and its path forward.

We discuss:

• Why governments borrow and how it differs from personal debt.

• The key warning signs to watch, including the debt-to-GDP ratio.

• The real-world consequences of a sovereign debt default.

• An assessment of Malaysia's current debt position and fiscal health.

• Why Malaysia's high level of ringgit-denominated debt provides a crucial buffer.

• For business owners, investors, and anyone looking to understand the forces shaping our national economy, this is an essential primer on government debt and fiscal responsibility.

Image Credit: Shutterstock

Produced by: Roshan Kanesan

Presented by: Roshan Kanesan

This and more than 60,000 other podcasts in your hand. Download the all new BFM mobile app.

Categories:  economy,  government,  markets

Tags:  government debt,  fiscal policy,  macroeconomics,  budget deficit,  malaysia economy,