KUALA LUMPUR, March 17 -- The Malaysian ringgit has been reported to be one of emerging Asia's best performing currencies this month, giving investors another reason to buy the nation's bonds.

Bloomberg reported that the ringgit strengthened by almost 0.8 per cent in March after Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) said it was encouraging state-linked firms to repatriate and convert their overseas earnings.

It added that other bond positives are improving exports and a relatively stable inflation rate.

M&G Investments Asia fixed income fund manager Peerampa Janjumratsang was quoted as saying that Malaysia's government bonds are a key element of Asia's investment strategy.

"We currently maintain a moderately overweight position," said the Singap...