Kuala lumpur: Malaysia remains committed to a whole-of-government approach, consistently ensuring that the country’s interests and sovereignty are protected when finalising the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States (US).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz stated that the negotiation team was resolute in matters concerning ‘red-line’ issues, particularly bumiputera rights, government procurement policies, and demands for full equity liberalisation in strategic national sectors such as energy and telecommunications. He refuted claims that the agreement amounts to ‘selling the country’ as inaccurate.

Tengku Zafrul emphasized that there was no guarantee of lower tariffs had Malaysia conceded on all red-line issues. He highlighted that the negotiation team remained steadfast in defending the nation’s interests, upholding national dignity and sovereignty, and refusing to compromise on these critical matters.

Furthermore, Tengku Zafrul acknowledged US-granted concessions against initial demands, describing the agreement as mutually beneficial, especially for Malaysian businesses and exporters. He noted that various local industrial associations endorsed the agreement, warning that failed negotiations could lead to profit losses and workforce reductions.

Malaysia’s negotiation strategy was based on openness and long-term national interest, focusing on the protection and sustainability of companies, including SMEs, involved in the US market. The ART allowed Malaysia to ensure ongoing discussions without compromising national interest and sovereignty.

Tengku Zafrul clarified that the ART is not a ‘blank cheque’ for the US but a framework requiring negotiation and preventing unilateral threats. All outcomes from the process are subject to feedback from relevant ministries and Cabinet discussions.

He acknowledged the complexity and challenges of the process, with Malaysia facing tariffs and time pressures set by Washington. This negotiation, one of the fastest and most complex in Malaysia’s trade agreement history, exemplifies Malaysia’s commitment to safeguarding national interests under global scrutiny.

Tengku Zafrul praised the civil servants who worked diligently to uphold Malaysia’s interests and dignity throughout the negotiations, asserting that Malaysia remains a respected nation capable of confidently defending its rights and protecting its people’s interests.