In the case of savings vehicles, moreover, significant differences are observed on the basis of educational level (primary, secondary or university) and the level of income which, generally, are less marked in the case of debt and insurance products. Secondly, as regards whether interviewees have or have recently acquired any of these financial products, a notable 97% have a current account, 43% have some type of savings vehicle and 41% have debt of some sort. The commonest saving product is the savings account, followed by pension schemes. Once again differences are observed on the basis of educational level and level of income, more markedly so in the case of savings vehicles than in that of debt products. Among the international patterns identified in respect of the holding of financial products, it is worth mentioning that while in Spain holding a current account is more generalised than in the OECD and EU countries, holding savings products stands slightly below the average for these countries. It should be borne in mind, however, that the results on the comparison of the holding of savings products should be viewed with caution since the list of products considered as savings vehicles may vary from country to country. 4/7  As to the recent acquisition of financial products, the Survey shows that 38% have acquired some type of saving or insurance vehicle, a means of payment, or have incurred debt over the past two years. This percentage is lower than the average observed in the OECD countries (54%) and EU members (50%).

Key agencies such as MGTC and Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA) have been established to provide the required support and incentives to promote the industry. On the financing side, Bank Negara Malaysia has worked closely with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water to establish the Green Technology Financing Scheme (GTFS). The scheme is expected to benefit over 140 companies. With an initial allocation of RM1.5 billion, it was recently increased with an additional RM2.0 billion. The scheme was structured to reduce the financial risk borne by financial institutions, as the government guarantees 60% of the financing amount via Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad (CGC) and bears 2% of the total interest or profit rate. This financing framework aims to improve the preconditions for financial institutions to finance viable and innovative green technology companies. It provides avenues that help bridge information gaps between financiers and businesses, and introduces credit enhancements and financial incentives to address any market short comings in meeting a legitimate economic need. Efforts are also being carried out to strengthen the capacity of financial institutions to provide advisory support to businesses. The certification process that verifies the businesses which qualify for the GTFS is central to these efforts, as it not only verifies the technical capabilities of the businesses, but also assists in assessing its commercial viability. Since the introduction of the GTFS in 2010, the growth of green technology financing in Malaysia is beginning to gain traction amongst financial institutions.