Washington: Malaysia seeks to maintain good ties with the United States, said Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. He highlighted the country’s longstanding economic partnership with the US, emphasizing that the US has been a significant foreign investor in Malaysia. This partnership is exemplified by the presence of major US companies like Intel, which has operated in Malaysia since 1971, and others that have been active even longer.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Amir Hamzah made these remarks at the ASEAN Leadership Forum by the Centre For Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, DC. He expressed hope for a continued positive economic relationship with the US under President Donald Trump’s administration, without the hindrance of a global trade war. The Minister stressed the necessity of creating a mechanism that allows both nations to prosper and integrate within the global supply chain.

Amir Hamzah emphasized the importance of mutual respect in the US-Malaysia partnership, suggesting that both countries have consistently worked towards common outcomes. He advocated for expanding economic opportunities rather than focusing on dividing existing ones, a strategy he believes adds little value.

Reflecting on the historical ties between Putrajaya and Washington, Amir Hamzah noted that their shared history has facilitated collaborative growth. Addressing the issue of the 24 percent reciprocal tariffs, he mentioned that Malaysia has already initiated discussions with the US. While acknowledging that bilateral trade agreements require time and negotiation, he was optimistic about the positive reception of initial conversations.

The Minister also highlighted recent engagements, such as the April 24 meetings between Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz and US officials, including US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick. Malaysia has expressed readiness to collaborate with the US on several key areas, including reducing the trade deficit, addressing non-tariff barriers, strengthening technological safeguards, and exploring a potential bilateral trade agreement.