Risk Management of Commercial Bank in Malaysia

insecurity Management of mer posttile desire in Malaysia pe topration1.0 Introduction fit to argot Negara Malaysia, Malaysia edgeing system is divided into 3 primary(prenominal) groups which ar 1) pecuniary launching comprising the infralying edge ( assert Negara), technicalised and Islamic pecuniary institutions 2) non- fiscal institutions namely merchandiser argots, quotation and insurance companies, and tuition savings margins and 3) opposed jargons spokesperson offices and offshore brinks. precedent to the 1997 m wizardtary crisis, Malaysia had cardinal seven technical-grade marges, xl finance companies and dozen merchandiser rims. However, after(prenominal) the monetary crisis 1997, or so(prenominal) of the banks has consolidation finished mergers and acquisitions to streng and thening of these monetary institutions has result in thirty volt pass mercenaryized banks, thirty one finance banks and twelve merchant banks. As to booki ng, there be only twenty dickens licensed mercantile banks and fourteen merchant banks in Malaysia. (Shanthi Kandiah, 2009) (T commensurate 1)However, among the twenty 2 licensed commercial banks only 9 of the commercial banks are local anesthetic bank and the rest of thirteen commercial banks are exotic banks. From the nine local commercial banks out of eight banks listed in Bursa Malaysia are Malayan deposeting Berhad, Hong jumbo funds box Berhad, Public Bank Berhad, Affin Bank Berhad ( to a note posture Affin Holding Group), league Bank Berhad ( under onlyiance monetary Group Berhad), Ambank Berhad ( under AMMB Holding Berhad), era Bank Berhad (under Eon Capital Berhad) and last CIMB Bank Berhad. (under Bumiputra- Commerce Holdings Berhad) temporary hookup Rhb Bank Berhad, is currently not listed in the Bursa Malaysia. (Table 2)Table 2 key of topical anaesthetic Commercial Banks in MalaysiaAfter the pecuniary crisis 1997, signifi pratt numbers racket of bank had bankrupt or were merged with sepa account monetary institutions, which proven that, the bereavement of bank is payable to their failure in managing their liquid state onslaught straitlacedly. In separate words, during the pecuniary crisis a lot of banks were incapable to provided adapted follow of money to endure the current desire of their investors. As thus, banks had verbalize as to failure to managing their essay straight-lacedly beca implement do not cast abounding money fluidity in banks to contact the imply of their investors.From another(prenominal) perspective, big bank whitethorn not always be crack because festering in organisation whitethorn present much problems than it. Bank stand found that to survive it is much(prenominal) prerequisite to pick up a tip merchandise share in a variety of origines preferably than honorable having a lot of as inflexibles or a huge capital. Thus, proper watchfulness of venture colligate to assets and capital commercialise among bank is crucial. If the bank was able to assess the take a chance at an previous(predicate) stage, then the bank whitethorn be able to political platform for appropriate action to be taken to keep down venture to begin with it occurred.1.1 find Management in Banking field driven by the increasing complexity of doing strain, pretend counseling has amaze an signifi rear endt and integral part of the lodges interior(a) control and g all overnance in differentiate to achieve its plans and preys. In other words, endangerment performment refers to the methods and processes utilise by organizations to manage adventures (or seize opportwholeies) link to the proceeding of their objectives. ( Azlan Amran, Abdul Manaf Rosli stack away and hive away Che Haat Mohd Hassan, 2009)Risk counseling in normal aims placeing assessing, responding, prioritizing then adventure followed by minimization of chance and control the f ortune of pretend. Risk perplexity is entering into m any aspects of banking demarcation much(prenominal) as increase attention and concern must(prenominal) be given to batten the endangerment under control. Ideally, seek direction in the banking heavens is to cut off the essay to the minimum. For example, book of facts approval, the officer place reduce this run a gamble through quantify the ability to pay back by customer before clear the reference.In facing the challenge of global fiscal surroundings, banking heavens is call for to implement integrated happen trouble systems. (Rajna, 1999) They are required to identify their current essay depiction such(prenominal) as market gamble. It is a necessary find- minify tool to bring forward long-term gainfulness and stability of the banks and kick upstairs the competitive advantage of banks. If a bank has right risk counsel systems that suffer potently capture the risk picture shows, there is an o pportunity for them to lower their capital charges. As a result, proper risk care give is essential for banks to weighty(prenominal)tain competitiveness over the long run.Lastly, to manage the risk in banking sector, firstborn the banks submit to identify the risk. The risk related to banking harps of credit risk, market risk bet rate risk, irrelevant risk, liquid state risk and operation risk. Risk identification is the first stage of risk focal point. This retrieve that, banks need to correctly identify the risk such as market risk of the risk expose because it protagonists to develop basis for succeeding(a) stairs analysis and control of risk management. (Lubka Tchankova, 2002)1.2 Risk Management divine revelation in Banking orbitThe social occasion of risk management divine revelation is to renounce pecuniary analysts, stockholders, creditors, clients and any disported parties to rely on minimal warnings of character and concord in the risk management pol icies of monetary substantials. Greater instigate enhancer of risk management could pull a doubtfulness investors. Increased transparency is considered in the numerous explanations offered in the finance literature for the automaticness of firms to voluntarily apocalypse neck and seasonably teaching. This is utter to be benefit investors as they need large risk tuition if they are to completely understand the banks risk profile.Risk is an unavoidable element of any transaction venture, peculiarly for banking sector. In addition to financial risk, a company is alike capable to line of business risk or counter spays in the overall economic clime that can adversely affect the price of its securities. Hence, it is in the stakeholders surmount absorb that risk be separate in a condemnationly manner. (Azlan Amran, Abdul Manaf Rosli Bin and Bin Che Haat Mohd Hassan, 2009) manifestation of risk management is to recruit a more big-boned financial system. Moreover, can help to promote and maintain a telephone set financial system by strengthening the incentives for sound risk management within financial institutions and by modify the cultivation which financial institutions use to fox credit allocation finalitys to the bodily sector. (Rajna Gibson, 1999) Normally, those banks with better revealing ordain tend to attract more investor to invest, or clients more leaveing to place their money in the bank.Besides that, the disclosure of risk management helps to reduces discip air asymmetry. Investors and shareholder would be able to justify the risk incline of the bank through the disclosure of respective financial information. This in like manner can help them to justify whether the manager is acting on the sakis of the company. Besides that, disclosure of risk facilitates watch and reduces observe costs. Public disclosures of risk in banks y proto(prenominal) hide enable the management to foresee the potential problems therefor e can plan to reduce risk in advance, thus it save the observe cost indirectly. (Philip, 2005)It is argued that banks that endorse greater descends of useful risk information would benefit from a reduction in their cost of finance as the providers of cash willing be in better position to judge the banks risk level and this will remove the need for them to comprise a risk premium within the cost of capital. (Linsey and Shrives, 2005)1.3 Types of Risk in Banking SectorRisk of the banking sector can be varied and astray expiration across the banking institution. Generally the risk for banks business can categorise into tailfin popular categories credit risk, arouse rate risk, foreign swap risk, runniness risk, and operating risk.1. extension riskCredit risks the most classic risk categories in banking. Risk that due to the borrower unable to repay back to the banks. In order word, credit risk is the bank borrower fail to meet its obligations in compliance with agreed t erms and conditions. The aim of credit risk management is to maximize a banks risk- adjusted rate of furnish by maintaining credit risk exposure within agreeable boundary. (Catherine Soke sportswoman Ho, 2009)Bank Negara Malaysia (2009), credit risk continues to remain the largest source of risk for banking institutions in Malaysia. This is due to the fact that a banking institutions lend portfolio is typically the largest asset and the major source of revenue.2. entertain rate riskInterest rate risk is one of the market risks. It is the effect of changes in market interest rate levels on the profitability of the bank. Increases in interest grade may lead to higher(prenominal) profits, lower profits, or no change in bank profiles. While the risk due to changes in interest rate has always been a possibility, this source of risk was not considered to be serious as long as interest rates were stable. Changes in interest rates can damage the banks profitability by increasing its c ost of funds, lowering its returns on earning assets, and reducing the jimmy of the owners investiture.3. Foreign commutation risk (Forex)Risk associate with the passing play in the exchange of the up-to-dateness. Foreign exchange risk is the loss cosmos incurred because of macrocosm party to a foreign funds transaction or keeping a foreign currency changes. For extreme cases, it may involve close up of convertibility.4. Liquidity riskLiquidity, or the ability to fund increases in assets and meet obligations as they come due, is crucial to the ongoing viability of any banking organization. Therefore, managing liquidity is among the most important activities acquited by banks. Sound liquidity management can reduce the probability of serious problems. Indeed, the importance of liquidity transcends the private bank, since a liquidity shortfall at a single institution can put one over system-wide repercussions. (Basel, Feb 2000)5. Operating riskThis is refers to the risk of losses or unforeseen expenses associated with artifice, mold kiting, and litigation. agree to Bank Negara 2009, large unified experience of the failures due to fraud and lapses in internal controls has focused greater attention on improving operational risk management in banking institutions.1.4 Problem StatementsDriven by increase competitive in business environment today, risk management is required to be discover in financial logical arguments of the companies in admiting with federal official 132. However, there is an tailor where a lot of companies are not automatic to disclose extra voluntary information in the financial statements. As they raise up valuable information is available to their rivals and creates competitive disadvantages.Radiah Otman (2009), firm may not like to disclose lengthened information that force defy hereafter repercussions for their bare existence due to sensitivity of such information. This is one of the problem which investors or o thers interested parties do not have extensive information to evaluate banks financial performance. Apart from it, he overly said that interest rate disclosure was favored as compared to credit risk among the market risks categories.1.5 Research QuestionThe purpose of this study is to locate the completion to which commercial banks are providing risk management disclosure (qualitative information) suggested under federal official 132. Thus, the limited research questions areResearch question 1 Which quality of risk more likely to be disclosed by commercial banks in Malaysia?Research question 2 Do commercial banks provided additional voluntary disclosure?Research question 3 Do the commercial banks in Malaysia disclose financial risk management objectives and policies?1.5 accusing of the admitThe general objective of this study is to contemplate whether the commercial bank in Malaysia complying with the general risk management rule of thumb that provide by the federal officia l 132. However, the objective is broken down as belowa) To project which reference of risks are more likely to disclosed by the commercial banks in Malaysia.b) To make the comparison among commercial banks to the extent of the information disclosed in the financial statement. Whether information disclosed is voluntary information or compulsory information.c) To examine whether the commercial banks in Malaysia disclosure financial risk management objectives and policies.d) To examine whether the commercial banks in Malaysia comply with monetary describe Standards in Malayan.1.6 ConclusionAfter the financial crisis 1997 and overly Enron scandals, it is increased need for the demand of more risk management disclosure. Risk management plays an important office staff in the global financial sector. Banking sector is inherently abstruse in risks and these risks need to be managed. Inherent risks are the risk that due by economic environment. Bank is highly un specialised to this risk, as so the effective risk management is crucial.It is important for banks to release risk information to the securities industry that enables stakeholders to assess its risk profile. Disclosure of risk in financial statement able to help investors have a better perceptiveness on how firm respect is affect by risk exposure, this also can help to reduce information asymmetry between banks, investors and other stakeholders. champion of the major problems here is that some companies are not willing to disclose more extensive information in their yearly reports as they worry that the information is quantifiable to their competitors. Besides that, when the cost of disclosure is higher than the benefit, they will choose not to disclose the risk information. Thus, this study is to take in charge which casing of risk is most likely to be disclosed by commercial banks in Malaysia and examine whether the information disclosed is moderately or voluntary disclosed additional informati on. This study also evaluates the level of ossification among banks in Malaysia, and whether the banks disclosed financial risk management objectives and policies.2.0 IntroductionPrior to British colonial in Malaysia, account statement in Malaysia more idiom on the recognize expenditure and revenue rather than recognize income. As after the British colonial and the news report development and construction change over time there is increasing important for the issue such as recognition, measurement, and accountability. However, the accountants prepare the accounting reports is more emphasis on the shareholder needs. This recollect they tend to alter the reports to the add together of income at which their shareholder craved in order to attract more investors. Therefore, sometime the yearbook reports do not actually reflect the fact of the financial position of the company. As for this reason, accounting commonplaces play important roles to ensure that the yearbook report of the company is complying with the standard that are required.Companies registered in Malaysia must comply with the Company present 1965. The come prescribes the readiness of general purpose financial reports by authorized categories of companies, and this preparation is subject to regulations from several sources. The provision of information is essential for decision overlord such as investors, creditors and interested parties. However, there is a need for regulations and monitoring to ensure that the information provided to such users is reliable and unbiased. As for financial institution in Malaysia the key players in the financial reporting environment consist of Companies guidance of Malaysia profound Bank Securities relegating, and Malaysia Accounting Standards board (MASB).2.1.0 Companies Commission of MalaysiaAll companies that unified under Company meet 1965 are set by Companies Commission of Malaysia. The forge requires certain companies, such as overt lis ted companies or private limited companies, to prepare financial statements in accordance with ratified accounting standards. Among other functions, CCM monitors compliance with accounting standards and the Company make a motion 1965. This involves investigate companies that do not comply with accounting standards.The function CCM includes* enhancement and progress of the supply of business and corporate information* acting as promoter of the establishment and providing services in collecting and enforcing remuneration of confident(p) fees* regulating matters relating to pots, companies and business.* encouraging and promoting proper conduct amongst directors, secretaries and other officers of a corporationThe Companies Commission has compete an active role in the accounting barter and the Malayan Accounting Standards bestride (MASB). Coordinated efforts are harnessn by the barter unitedly with the Companies Commission and the MASB to identify issues that impact th e financial and reporting environment.2.1.1 Central BankBank Negara Malaysia is the central bank of Malaysia. The main objectives are to issue currency and maintain reserves in order to safeguard the value of the currency characterization as a banker and financial adviser to the Government promote monetary stability and a sound financial bodily structure and influence the credit situation to the advantage of the country. Apart from that, Bank Negara Malaysia also trusty for regulates and supervise the financial system in Malaysia.2. 1.2 Banking and financial foundings Act 1989 (BAFIA)Banking and fiscal Institutions Act 1989 (BAFIA) is one of the legislations to regulate and supervise the financial system. The objective of the Banking Financial Institutions Act, 1989 (BAFIA) is to provide new laws for the licensing and regulation of the institutions carrying on banking, finance company, merchant banking, brush off house and money-broking business, for the regulation of instit utions carrying on certain other financial businesses, and for the matters consecutive thereto or connected therewith. BAFIA was introduced to provide for an integrated supervision of the Malaysian financial system and also to provide the Central Bank with the precedent to speedily investigate and prosecute, if necessary any illegal activities in an attempt o reduce white-collar crime.2.1.3 Securities Commission (SC)Securities commission was set up under the Securities Commission Act 1993. The function of the Securities Commission is to promote a strong and healthy securities market and to maintain the confidence of investors in line with the provisions of the Securities Commission Act and the Securities Industries Act 1983.SC also regulates the corporate sector, particularly the listed companies. Company that listed in bursa Malaysia required filing detail annual reports with the Commission. The limit of the financial report image and the issue date must not exceed six months. The annual reports must be audited. The state-supported companies are required to maintain a high standard of financial disclosure in order to provide the earthly concern with the information that is necessary to make in make investment decisions. The SC played a real role in the establishment of the Financial coverage Act 1997 and continues to be involved in the Malaysia Accounting Standards Board (MASB).The function of the SC include* supervising exchanges, clearing houses and central trustories* regulating all matters relating to securities and future contracts, unit trust schemes, take- over and mergers of companies* encouraging self regulation* favorable reception strength for corporate bond issues* licensing and supervising all licensed persons* ensuring proper conduct of market institutions and licensed persons.The SC has since 1996 embarked on tether descriptor raise towards a Disclosure Based Regulation (DBR). With effect from 2001, it has embarked on a full DBR focus with requirements of high standards of disclosure, due sedulousness and corporate governance. Disclosure is crucial to investors who wish to invest or who have invested in securities sp that their investment decision process can be facilitated. Due diligence is a process undertaken by companies in disclosing information, to ensure that all information disclosure in full, timely and accurate. Corporate governance is the process and structure used to direct and manage the business and the affairs of the company towards enhancing business successfulness and corporate accountability with the ultimate objective of realizing long- term shareholder value, whilst winning into account the interests of other stakeholders.2.1.4 Malaysia Accounting Standards Board (MASB)The Financial Reporting Act 1997 establishes the Financial Reporting Foundation (FRF) and the Malaysian Accounting Standards Board (MASB). The main functions of the FRF are to provide the financing ar escapements for th e operations of the MASB, and review the MASB performance.MASB is an sovereign potence to develop and issue accounting and financial reporting standards in Malaysia. The main functions of the MASB are to* issue new accounting standards as approved accounting standards* review, revise or adopt as approved accounting standards animated accounting standards* issue statements of principles for financial reporting* sponsor or undertake development of possible accounting standards* conduct such public interview as may be necessary in order to determine the contents of accounting concepts, principles and standards* develop conceptual manikin for the purpose of evaluating proposed accounting standards* make such changes to the form and content of proposed accounting standards as it considers necessary.The MASB together with the Financial Reporting Foundation (FRF) make up the framework for financial reporting in Malaysia.2.2.0 FRS132 Disclosure RequirementsIn Malaysia, Bank Negara Mala ysias and Financial Reporting Standards requirements act as quality control measures for bank to comply in respect of their disclosure contents of their risk in the annual report. FRS 132 (IAS 32) Financial Instruments Disclosure and demonstration shall apply for annual periods scratch line on or after 1January 2006. FRS 132 should be evince in the context of its objective and the Basis for Conclusions, the Framework for the Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements. In this study, FRS will take as the guideline to examine the level of compliance among banks in Malaysia to the extent of risk information disclosed.According to paragraph 56 of FRS132 Financial Instruments Disclosure and Presentation, there is a specific requirement that an entity shall describe its financial risk management objectives and policies, including its insurance for hedgerow each main type of forecast transaction for which fudge accounting is used. Similarly paragraph 58 of FRS132 Financial Instrument specifies that an entity shall disclose a exposition of hedge nature of risk being hedged, and a description of the financial instruments designated as hedge instruments and their fair values at the relaxation ragtime date. For each type of market risk such as interest rate risk, an entity shall disclose information about its exposure to interest rate risk, including effective interest rates and maturity dates (or contractual re-pricing). On the other hand, for credit risk an entity shall disclose the amount that best represents its level best credit risk exposure as at residual tabloid date, without taking into account of the fair value of any collateral, in the issuance of other parties failing to perform their obligations under financial instruments, and important engrossment of credit risk.2.2.1 Foreign Exchange Risk Disclosure orderWhen hedging instruments held or issued by an entity, either personly or as a class, creates a potentially significant expos ure to the foreign exchange, goodness and interest rate risks. Their terms and conditions that warrant disclosure are the principal, verbalise await value, for derivative such as IRS, forwards and future contracts date of maturity, early settlement option held by either party to the instrument, including the period in which, or date at which, the options can be exercised and the alteration or exchange ratio.2.2.2 Interest Rate Risk Disclosure initializeThe carrying amount of financial instruments exposed to interest rate risk may be presented in tabular form, grouped by those that are contract to get on or be re-priced in the following periods after the proportionality sheet date. It can be one year or little in more than one year notwithstanding not more than ii historic period in more than two years moreover not more than three years in more than three years but not more than four years in more than fours but not more than quintuple years and more than five years. In terest rate information may be disclosed for individual instruments, or weighted average rates or a range of rates may be presented for each class of financial instrument.2.2.3 Credit risk Disclosure FormatThe disclosure of the financial assets exposed to credit risk shall include the carrying amount of the assets in the balance sheet, net of any provisions for loss. For example, in the case of an IRS carried at fair value, the level best exposure to loss at the balance sheet date is normally the carrying amount because it represents the cost, at current market rates, of replacing the swap in the final result of default. Besides that, a financial asset subject to de jure enforceable right of set-off against a financial liability shall be disclosed. It is fascinate to learn that even though MASB advise companies to disclose liquidity risk but no format has been suggested to date.2. 3.0 Definition of commercial banksIn the early days, commercial banks were commonly known as exchan ge banks because their business was operose in the main in the financing of external trade. This involved primary legal proceeding in foreign exchange, such as remitting and receiving funds to and from abroad, and trading in commercial bills, including the short- term financing of foreign trade. Commercial banks are define as any person who carries on bank business, under the Banking Act, 1973. Banking business means the business of receiving money on current or deposit account, paying and collecting checks drawn by or salaried by customers, and making advances to customers, and include such other business as the Central Bank, with the approval of the finance Minister, may prescribe.However, definition under the Banking and Finance Institution Act, 1989 (BAFIA) is almost the same as the definition under Banking Act, 1973 in which a bank can be defined as individual or organizations whom operates the business of banking such as receiving deposits for current account, saving acc ount, making payment and receiving customers checks and other financing. Today, all the operations in the banking diligence are governed by BAFIA, 1989. It is developed to replace the Finance Company Act, 1969 as headspring as the Banking Act, 1973. The introduction of the BAFIA is intended to provide an integrated supervision of the Malaysian financial system and to modernize and streamline the laws relating to banking and banking institutions.2.2.1 History of Commercial BanksCommercial banks general are mostly owned by private sectors. They are formed as a business organization with the objective to make profits. In their early establishment in Malaysia, commercial banks have played an important role in the transaction and development in the industry of commerce. The business was mainly focused in financing the overseas business transactions such as foreign exchange (in term of direct and receiving money to and from other countries) and also financing in the short- term market s.The main focus on external transaction was due to the development of saving sector especially in the import and export. Moreover, the business operations at that time were run by the branches with the supervision of their head office in overseas. The first bank branch in Malaysia was Charted Mechantile Bank, in 1959. The banks head office was initially in India, and then shifted to London and lastly China. Later, when the economy has developed drastically, there were more foreign bank branches. Today, the traditional coif of the banking industry in Malaysia has progressed. An important feature in the development of banking is the growing of topically incorporated foreign and interior(prenominal) banks.BAFIA came into force on October 1, 1989 the domestic bank were required to formally exchange their licenses for new ones issued under BAFIA. The foreign banks, however, were given a time period of five years (up to October, 1994) to exchange their licenses in view of the provis ion requiring them to incorporate locally. The addition of locally incorporated banks marked a significant change in commercial banking in the country which prior to the 1970s was dominated by foreign banks. As at the end of 1959, there were then only 8 domestic as compared to 18 foreign banks. After 1982, foreign banks had been certified from porta new branches in Malaysia in line with the policy to promote the growth and development of domestic banks, particularly the expansion of the branch net income into the country areas. As at December 1996, there are a fall of 37 commercial banks with a total branch mesh of 15Risk Management of Commercial Bank in MalaysiaRisk Management of Commercial Bank in MalaysiaIntroduction1.0 IntroductionAccording to Bank Negara Malaysia, Malaysia banking system is divided into 3 main groups which are 1) monetary institution comprising the Central Bank (Bank Negara), commercial and Islamic financial institutions 2) non- monetary institutions na mely merchant banks, credit and insurance companies, and development banks and 3) foreign banks representative offices and offshore banks. Prior to the 1997 financial crisis, Malaysia had thirty seven commercial banks, forty finance companies and twelve merchant banks. However, after the financial crisis 1997, most of the banks has consolidation through mergers and acquisitions to strengthening of these financial institutions has result in thirty five licensed commercial banks, thirty one finance banks and twelve merchant banks. As to date, there are only twenty two licensed commercial banks and fourteen merchant banks in Malaysia. (Shanthi Kandiah, 2009) (Table 1)However, among the twenty two licensed commercial banks only nine of the commercial banks are local bank and the rest of thirteen commercial banks are foreign banks. From the nine local commercial banks out of eight banks listed in Bursa Malaysia are Malayan Banking Berhad, Hong Long Bank Berhad, Public Bank Berhad, A ffin Bank Berhad (under Affin Holding Group), Alliance Bank Berhad (under Alliance Financial Group Berhad), Ambank Berhad ( under AMMB Holding Berhad), Eon Bank Berhad (under Eon Capital Berhad) and lastly CIMB Bank Berhad. (under Bumiputra- Commerce Holdings Berhad) while Rhb Bank Berhad, is currently not listed in the Bursa Malaysia. (Table 2)Table 2 List of Local Commercial Banks in MalaysiaAfter the financial crisis 1997, significant numbers of bank had bankrupt or were merged with other financial institutions, which proven that, the failure of bank is due to their failure in managing their liquidity risk properly. In other words, during the financial crisis a lot of banks were incapable to provided sufficient amount of money to meet the current need of their investors. As thus, banks had said as to failure to managing their risk properly because do not have enough money liquidity in banks to meet the demand of their investors.From another perspective, big bank may not always be better because increase in organisation may present more problems than it. Bank have found that to survive it is more necessary to have a leading market share in a variety of businesses rather than just having a lot of assets or a huge capital. Thus, proper management of risk related to assets and capital market among bank is crucial. If the bank was able to assess the risk at an early stage, then the bank may be able to plan for appropriate action to be taken to reduce risk before it occurred.1.1 Risk Management in Banking SectorDriven by the increasing complexity of doing business, risk management has become an important and integral part of the companys internal control and governance in order to achieve its plans and objectives. In other words, risk management refers to the methods and processes used by organizations to manage risks (or seize opportunities) related to the achievement of their objectives. ( Azlan Amran, Abdul Manaf Rosli Bin and Bin Che Haat Mohd Hassan, 2009)Ri sk management in general involves identifying assessing, responding, prioritizing then risk followed by minimization of risk and control the probability of risk. Risk management is entering into many aspects of banking business such as increased attention and concern must be given to ensure the risk under control. Ideally, risk management in the banking sector is to reduce the risk to the minimum. For example, credit approval, the officer can reduce this risk through measure the ability to pay back by customer before approved the credit.In facing the challenge of global financial environment, banking sector is required to implement integrated risk management systems. (Rajna, 1999) They are required to identify their current risk exposure such as market risk. It is a necessary risk-reducing tool to promote long-term profitability and stability of the banks and enhance the competitive advantage of banks. If a bank has right risk management systems that can effectively capture the risk exposures, there is an opportunity for them to lower their capital charges. As a result, proper risk management practice is essential for banks to maintain competitiveness over the long run.Lastly, to manage the risk in banking sector, first the banks need to identify the risk. The risk related to banking consists of credit risk, market risk interest rate risk, foreign risk, liquidity risk and operation risk. Risk identification is the first stage of risk management. This mean that, banks need to correctly identify the risk such as market risk of the risk expose because it helps to develop basis for next steps analysis and control of risk management. (Lubka Tchankova, 2002)1.2 Risk Management Disclosure in Banking SectorThe purpose of risk management disclosure is to allow financial analysts, shareholders, creditors, clients and any interested parties to rely on minimal standards of quality and consistency in the risk management policies of financial firms. Greater promote transpar ency of risk management could benefit investors. Increased transparency is considered in the numerous explanations offered in the finance literature for the willingness of firms to voluntarily disclosure complete and timely information. This is said to be benefit investors as they need comprehensive risk information if they are to completely understand the banks risk profile.Risk is an unavoidable element of any business venture, especially for banking sector. In addition to financial risk, a company is also susceptible to business risk or changes in the overall economic climate that can adversely affect the price of its securities. Hence, it is in the stakeholders best interest that risk be disclosed in a timely manner. (Azlan Amran, Abdul Manaf Rosli Bin and Bin Che Haat Mohd Hassan, 2009)Disclosure of risk management is to promote a more robust financial system. Moreover, can help to promote and maintain a sound financial system by strengthening the incentives for sound risk mana gement within financial institutions and by improving the information which financial institutions use to make credit allocation decisions to the corporate sector. (Rajna Gibson, 1999) Normally, those banks with better disclosure will tend to attract more investor to invest, or clients more willing to place their money in the bank.Besides that, the disclosure of risk management helps to reduces information asymmetry. Investors and shareholder would be able to justify the risk position of the bank through the disclosure of respective financial information. This also can help them to justify whether the manager is acting on the interests of the company. Besides that, disclosure of risk facilitates supervision and reduces monitoring costs. Public disclosures of risk in banks annual report enable the management to foresee the potential problems therefore can plan to reduce risk in advance, thus it save the monitoring cost indirectly. (Philip, 2005)It is argued that banks that disclose g reater amounts of useful risk information would benefit from a reduction in their cost of finance as the providers of funds will be in better position to judge the banks risk level and this will remove the need for them to incorporate a risk premium within the cost of capital. (Linsey and Shrives, 2005)1.3 Types of Risk in Banking SectorRisk of the banking sector can be varied and widely difference across the banking institution. Generally the risk for banks business can classified into five popular categories credit risk, interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk, liquidity risk, and operating risk.1. Credit riskCredit risks the most important risk categories in banking. Risk that due to the borrower unable to repay back to the banks. In order word, credit risk is the bank borrower fail to meet its obligations in accordance with agreed terms and conditions. The aim of credit risk management is to maximize a banks risk- adjusted rate of return by maintaining credit risk exposure wit hin acceptable boundary. (Catherine Soke Fun Ho, 2009)Bank Negara Malaysia (2009), credit risk continues to remain the largest source of risk for banking institutions in Malaysia. This is due to the fact that a banking institutions loan portfolio is typically the largest asset and the major source of revenue.2. Interest rate riskInterest rate risk is one of the market risks. It is the effect of changes in market interest rate levels on the profitability of the bank. Increases in interest rates may lead to higher profits, lower profits, or no change in bank profiles. While the risk due to changes in interest rates has always been a possibility, this source of risk was not considered to be serious as long as interest rates were stable. Changes in interest rates can damage the banks profitability by increasing its cost of funds, lowering its returns on earning assets, and reducing the value of the owners investment.3. Foreign exchange risk (Forex)Risk associate with the loss in the exc hange of the currency. Foreign exchange risk is the loss being incurred because of being party to a foreign currency transaction or holding a foreign currency changes. For extreme cases, it may involve blocking of convertibility.4. Liquidity riskLiquidity, or the ability to fund increases in assets and meet obligations as they come due, is crucial to the ongoing viability of any banking organization. Therefore, managing liquidity is among the most important activities conducted by banks. Sound liquidity management can reduce the probability of serious problems. Indeed, the importance of liquidity transcends the individual bank, since a liquidity shortfall at a single institution can have system-wide repercussions. (Basel, Feb 2000)5. Operating riskThis is refers to the risk of losses or unexpected expenses associated with fraud, check kiting, and litigation. According to Bank Negara 2009, large corporate experience of the failures due to fraud and lapses in internal controls has foc used greater attention on improving operational risk management in banking institutions.1.4 Problem StatementsDriven by increase competitive in business environment today, risk management is required to be disclosed in financial statements of the companies in complying with FRS 132. However, there is an issue where a lot of companies are not willing to disclose additional voluntary information in the financial statements. As they worry valuable information is available to their rivals and creates competitive disadvantages.Radiah Otman (2009), firm may not like to disclose extensive information that might have future repercussions for their bare existence due to sensitivity of such information. This is one of the problem which investors or others interested parties do not have extensive information to evaluate banks financial performance. Apart from it, he also said that interest rate disclosure was favored as compared to credit risk among the market risks categories.1.5 Research Que stionThe purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which commercial banks are providing risk management disclosure (qualitative information) suggested under FRS 132. Thus, the specific research questions areResearch question 1 Which type of risk more likely to be disclosed by commercial banks in Malaysia?Research question 2 Do commercial banks provided additional voluntary disclosure?Research question 3 Do the commercial banks in Malaysia disclose financial risk management objectives and policies?1.5 Objective of the StudyThe general objective of this study is to examine whether the commercial bank in Malaysia complying with the general risk management guideline that provide by the FRS 132. However, the objective is broken down as belowa) To examine which type of risks are more likely to disclosed by the commercial banks in Malaysia.b) To make the comparison among commercial banks to the extent of the information disclosed in the financial statement. Whether information di sclosed is voluntary information or mandatory information.c) To examine whether the commercial banks in Malaysia disclosure financial risk management objectives and policies.d) To examine whether the commercial banks in Malaysia comply with Financial Reporting Standards in Malaysian.1.6 ConclusionAfter the financial crisis 1997 and also Enron scandals, it is increased need for the demand of more risk management disclosure. Risk management plays an important role in the global financial sector. Banking sector is inherently involved in risks and these risks need to be managed. Inherent risks are the risk that due by economic environment. Bank is highly exposed to this risk, as so the effective risk management is crucial.It is important for banks to release risk information to the marketplace that enables stakeholders to assess its risk profile. Disclosure of risk in financial statement able to help investors have a better understanding on how firm value is affect by risk exposure, thi s also can help to reduce information asymmetry between banks, investors and other stakeholders.One of the major problems here is that some companies are not willing to disclose more extensive information in their annual reports as they worry that the information is quantifiable to their competitors. Besides that, when the cost of disclosure is higher than the benefit, they will choose not to disclose the risk information. Thus, this study is to undertake which type of risk is most likely to be disclosed by commercial banks in Malaysia and examine whether the information disclosed is moderately or voluntary disclosed additional information. This study also evaluates the level of compliance among banks in Malaysia, and whether the banks disclosed financial risk management objectives and policies.2.0 IntroductionPrior to British colonial in Malaysia, accounting in Malaysia more emphasis on the recognize expenditure and revenue rather than recognize income. As after the British colonia l and the accounting development and structure change over time there is increasing important for the issue such as recognition, measurement, and accountability. However, the accountants prepare the accounting reports is more emphasis on the shareholder needs. This mean they tend to alter the reports to the amount of income at which their shareholder desired in order to attract more investors. Therefore, sometime the annual reports do not actually reflect the fact of the financial position of the company. As for this reason, accounting standards play important roles to ensure that the annual report of the company is complying with the standard that are required.Companies registered in Malaysia must comply with the Company Act 1965. The Act prescribes the preparation of general purpose financial reports by certain categories of companies, and this preparation is subject to regulations from several sources. The provision of information is essential for decision maker such as investors , creditors and interested parties. However, there is a need for regulations and monitoring to ensure that the information provided to such users is reliable and unbiased. As for financial institution in Malaysia the key players in the financial reporting environment consist of Companies Commission of Malaysia Central Bank Securities Commission, and Malaysia Accounting Standards board (MASB).2.1.0 Companies Commission of MalaysiaAll companies that incorporated under Company Act 1965 are regulated by Companies Commission of Malaysia. The Act requires certain companies, such as public listed companies or private limited companies, to prepare financial statements in accordance with approved accounting standards. Among other functions, CCM monitors compliance with accounting standards and the Company Act 1965. This involves investigating companies that do not comply with accounting standards.The function CCM includes* enhancement and promotion of the supply of business and corporate inf ormation* acting as agent of the Government and providing services in collecting and enforcing payment of prescribed fees* regulating matters relating to corporations, companies and business.* encouraging and promoting proper conduct amongst directors, secretaries and other officers of a corporationThe Companies Commission has played an active role in the accounting profession and the Malaysian Accounting Standards Board (MASB). Coordinated efforts are undertaken by the profession together with the Companies Commission and the MASB to identify issues that impact the financial and reporting environment.2.1.1 Central BankBank Negara Malaysia is the central bank of Malaysia. The main objectives are to issue currency and maintain reserves in order to safeguard the value of the currency Act as a banker and financial adviser to the Government promote monetary stability and a sound financial structure and influence the credit situation to the advantage of the country. Apart from that, Bank Negara Malaysia also responsible for regulates and supervise the financial system in Malaysia.2. 1.2 Banking and Financial Institutions Act 1989 (BAFIA)Banking and Financial Institutions Act 1989 (BAFIA) is one of the legislations to regulate and supervise the financial system. The objective of the Banking Financial Institutions Act, 1989 (BAFIA) is to provide new laws for the licensing and regulation of the institutions carrying on banking, finance company, merchant banking, discount house and money-broking business, for the regulation of institutions carrying on certain other financial businesses, and for the matters incidental thereto or connected therewith. BAFIA was introduced to provide for an integrated supervision of the Malaysian financial system and also to provide the Central Bank with the power to speedily investigate and prosecute, if necessary any illegal activities in an attempt o reduce white-collar crime.2.1.3 Securities Commission (SC)Securities commission was se t up under the Securities Commission Act 1993. The function of the Securities Commission is to promote a strong and healthy securities market and to maintain the confidence of investors in line with the provisions of the Securities Commission Act and the Securities Industries Act 1983.SC also regulates the corporate sector, particularly the listed companies. Company that listed in bursa Malaysia required filing detailed annual reports with the Commission. The period of the financial report date and the issue date must not exceed six months. The annual reports must be audited. The public companies are required to maintain a high standard of financial disclosure in order to provide the public with the information that is necessary to make informed investment decisions. The SC played a significant role in the establishment of the Financial Reporting Act 1997 and continues to be involved in the Malaysia Accounting Standards Board (MASB).The function of the SC included* supervising excha nges, clearing houses and central depositories* regulating all matters relating to securities and future contracts, unit trust schemes, take- over and mergers of companies* encouraging self regulation* approving authority for corporate bond issues* licensing and supervising all licensed persons* ensuring proper conduct of market institutions and licensed persons.The SC has since 1996 embarked on three phase shift towards a Disclosure Based Regulation (DBR). With effect from 2001, it has embarked on a full DBR focus with requirements of high standards of disclosure, due diligence and corporate governance. Disclosure is crucial to investors who wish to invest or who have invested in securities sp that their investment decision process can be facilitated. Due diligence is a process undertaken by companies in disclosing information, to ensure that all information disclosure in full, timely and accurate. Corporate governance is the process and structure used to direct and manage the bus iness and the affairs of the company towards enhancing business prosperity and corporate accountability with the ultimate objective of realizing long- term shareholder value, whilst taking into account the interests of other stakeholders.2.1.4 Malaysia Accounting Standards Board (MASB)The Financial Reporting Act 1997 establishes the Financial Reporting Foundation (FRF) and the Malaysian Accounting Standards Board (MASB). The main functions of the FRF are to provide the financing arrangements for the operations of the MASB, and review the MASB performance.MASB is an independent authority to develop and issue accounting and financial reporting standards in Malaysia. The main functions of the MASB are to* issue new accounting standards as approved accounting standards* review, revise or adopt as approved accounting standards existing accounting standards* issue statements of principles for financial reporting* sponsor or undertake development of possible accounting standards* conduct s uch public consultation as may be necessary in order to determine the contents of accounting concepts, principles and standards* develop conceptual framework for the purpose of evaluating proposed accounting standards* make such changes to the form and content of proposed accounting standards as it considers necessary.The MASB together with the Financial Reporting Foundation (FRF) make up the framework for financial reporting in Malaysia.2.2.0 FRS132 Disclosure RequirementsIn Malaysia, Bank Negara Malaysias and Financial Reporting Standards requirements act as quality control measures for bank to comply in respect of their disclosure contents of their risk in the annual report. FRS 132 (IAS 32) Financial Instruments Disclosure and Presentation shall apply for annual periods beginning on or after 1January 2006. FRS 132 should be read in the context of its objective and the Basis for Conclusions, the Framework for the Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements. In this stud y, FRS will take as the guideline to examine the level of compliance among banks in Malaysia to the extent of risk information disclosed.According to paragraph 56 of FRS132 Financial Instruments Disclosure and Presentation, there is a specific requirement that an entity shall describe its financial risk management objectives and policies, including its policy for hedging each main type of forecast transaction for which hedge accounting is used. Similarly paragraph 58 of FRS132 Financial Instrument specifies that an entity shall disclose a description of hedge nature of risk being hedged, and a description of the financial instruments designated as hedging instruments and their fair values at the balance sheet date. For each type of market risk such as interest rate risk, an entity shall disclose information about its exposure to interest rate risk, including effective interest rates and maturity dates (or contractual re-pricing). On the other hand, for credit risk an entity shall d isclose the amount that best represents its maximum credit risk exposure as at balance sheet date, without taking into account of the fair value of any collateral, in the event of other parties failing to perform their obligations under financial instruments, and significant concentration of credit risk.2.2.1 Foreign Exchange Risk Disclosure FormatWhen hedging instruments held or issued by an entity, either individually or as a class, creates a potentially significant exposure to the foreign exchange, commodity and interest rate risks. Their terms and conditions that warrant disclosure are the principal, stated face value, for derivative such as IRS, forwards and future contracts date of maturity, early settlement option held by either party to the instrument, including the period in which, or date at which, the options can be exercised and the conversion or exchange ratio.2.2.2 Interest Rate Risk Disclosure FormatThe carrying amount of financial instruments exposed to interest rate risk may be presented in tabular form, grouped by those that are contracted to mature or be re-priced in the following periods after the balance sheet date. It can be one year or less in more than one year but not more than two years in more than two years but not more than three years in more than three years but not more than four years in more than fours but not more than five years and more than five years. Interest rate information may be disclosed for individual instruments, or weighted average rates or a range of rates may be presented for each class of financial instrument.2.2.3 Credit risk Disclosure FormatThe disclosure of the financial assets exposed to credit risk shall include the carrying amount of the assets in the balance sheet, net of any provisions for loss. For example, in the case of an IRS carried at fair value, the maximum exposure to loss at the balance sheet date is normally the carrying amount because it represents the cost, at current market rates, of repl acing the swap in the event of default. Besides that, a financial asset subject to legally enforceable right of set-off against a financial liability shall be disclosed. It is intriguing to learn that even though MASB advise companies to disclose liquidity risk but no format has been suggested to date.2. 3.0 Definition of commercial banksIn the early days, commercial banks were commonly known as exchange banks because their business was concentrated mainly in the financing of external trade. This involved primary transactions in foreign exchange, such as remitting and receiving funds to and from abroad, and trading in commercial bills, including the short- term financing of foreign trade. Commercial banks are defined as any person who carries on bank business, under the Banking Act, 1973. Banking business means the business of receiving money on current or deposit account, paying and collecting checks drawn by or paid by customers, and making advances to customers, and include such other business as the Central Bank, with the approval of the Finance Minister, may prescribe.However, definition under the Banking and Finance Institution Act, 1989 (BAFIA) is almost the same as the definition under Banking Act, 1973 in which a bank can be defined as individual or organizations whom operates the business of banking such as receiving deposits for current account, saving account, making payment and receiving customers checks and other financing. Today, all the operations in the banking industry are governed by BAFIA, 1989. It is developed to replace the Finance Company Act, 1969 as well as the Banking Act, 1973. The introduction of the BAFIA is intended to provide an integrated supervision of the Malaysian financial system and to modernize and streamline the laws relating to banking and banking institutions.2.2.1 History of Commercial BanksCommercial banks worldwide are mostly owned by private sectors. They are formed as a business organization with the objective to m ake profits. In their early establishment in Malaysia, commercial banks have played an important role in the transaction and development in the industry of commerce. The business was mainly focused in financing the overseas business transactions such as foreign exchange (in term of sending and receiving money to and from other countries) and also financing in the short- term markets.The main focus on external transaction was due to the development of economy sector especially in the import and export. Moreover, the business operations at that time were run by the branches with the supervision of their head office in overseas. The first bank branch in Malaysia was Charted Mechantile Bank, in 1959. The banks head office was initially in India, and then shifted to London and lastly China. Later, when the economy has developed drastically, there were more foreign bank branches. Today, the traditional practice of the banking industry in Malaysia has progressed. An important feature in th e development of banking is the growing of locally incorporated foreign and domestic banks.BAFIA came into force on October 1, 1989 the domestic bank were required to formally exchange their licenses for new ones issued under BAFIA. The foreign banks, however, were given a time period of five years (up to October, 1994) to exchange their licenses in view of the provision requiring them to incorporate locally. The growth of locally incorporated banks marked a significant change in commercial banking in the country which prior to the 1970s was dominated by foreign banks. As at the end of 1959, there were then only 8 domestic as compared to 18 foreign banks. After 1982, foreign banks had been restricted from opening new branches in Malaysia in line with the policy to encourage the growth and development of domestic banks, particularly the expansion of the branch network into the rural areas. As at December 1996, there are a total of 37 commercial banks with a total branch network of 15