Malaysia: Malaysia remains firmly opposed to unilateral tariffs and continues to uphold a multilateral, rules-based international trading system, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today. He asserted that the government does not support or condone any form of unilateral trade action, including those proposed by US President Donald Trump.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized Malaysia’s position as a trading nation with a strong belief in multilateralism. “We do not support unilateral actions, whether they come from the United States or any other country. We do not share this, do not endorse, support, or condone any unilateral action. It does not matter where it comes from. We promote peace, and we stand firm although we are a relatively small country,” he stated in his keynote address at the Nikkei Forum Medini, Johor 2025 in Iskandar Puteri.
He revealed that Malaysia is actively engaging in dialogue with the United States to address ongoing trade concerns. “I just received a note from Minister (Tengku) Zafrul this morning about a series of meetings with the Commerce Secretary and the US Trade Representative. Progressing very well in our negotiations on tariffs,” Anwar disclosed.
Anwar highlighted ASEAN’s unity in defending its economic interests, especially against protectionist measures that could disrupt regional supply chains and trade flows. He acknowledged the significance of the United States as Malaysia’s largest trading partner in sectors like electrical and electronics (E and E), with 60% of Malaysia’s E and E exports directed to the US.
The prime minister affirmed Malaysia’s commitment to working closely with regional partners, including Japan, China, and South Korea, to address any actions that may harm the global trade ecosystem. He concluded by expressing Malaysia’s readiness to enhance global engagement and maintain economic openness in the face of emerging challenges.
Furthermore, Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s strong stance on international justice and foreign policy, including its position on the situation in Gaza and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. “We may be small, but we are not afraid. We speak up when necessary, and we remain principled,” he stated.
Despite differences in global policy perspectives, Anwar emphasized the resilience and importance of Malaysia’s relationship with the United States. “Our relationship with the United States must remain strong. Which means we must continue the engagement (with them),” he added.
He clarified that Malaysia’s foreign and trade policies are driven by national interest and sovereignty rather than geopolitical pressure. “Nobody can dictate that we (are) too friendly to Japan, or China, or the United States. We are a trading country, an open trading country. And the policy must be to protect the interests of this nation and our people,” he concluded.