KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 7): The international reserves of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) were unchanged at US$97.7 billion as at Sept 30, 2016, compared to two weeks ago on Sept 15, but gained 3.2% to RM405 billion from RM392.5 billion earlier in ringgit terms.

In a statement today, the central bank explained the gain in international reserves was due to the quarterly adjustment for foreign exchange revaluation changes following the strengthening of other currencies against the ringgit during the third quarter.

BNM said the current reserves position is sufficient to finance 8.4 months of retained imports and is 1.2 times the short-term external debt.

According to the central bank, the country's foreign currency reserves stood at US$89.7 billion, while International Monetary Fund (IMF) reserves position was at US$800 million.