Kuala lumpur: The Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) between Malaysia and the United States contains no provisions that contradict the spirit or any articles of the Federal Constitution, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim asserted. Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) plays a crucial role in reviewing all national agreements, including the ART, to ensure they comply with Malaysian laws.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that the Cabinet’s discussions and decisions are often refined after receiving input from the AGC, noting that this review process remains essential even in the final stages. While the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) leads the negotiations, other agencies like JAKIM and the Agriculture Ministry contribute when necessary, with the AGC overseeing the legal aspects discussed in Cabinet meetings.
The Prime Minister made these remarks during the Minister’s Question Time at the Dewan Rakyat, responding to Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan (PN-Kota Bharu) regarding whether the ART had been reviewed by the AGC before signing. Malaysia and the US signed the ART on Oct 26 during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, following a US proposal to renegotiate tariffs on Malaysia.
Anwar assured that the agreement safeguards Bumiputera interests and ensures enforcement measures do not override Malaysia’s domestic laws. He highlighted Section 5 on Economic and National Security, clarifying that while it does not specifically mention sovereignty, it provides comprehensive guidance and binds all other provisions. Malaysia retains the right to act in its own interest if national security concerns arise.
In response to Sim Tze Tzin (PH-Bayan Baru) on the opposition’s alleged distortion of the ART issue, Anwar urged for debates based on verified facts. He expressed disdain for using issues or religion as a tool to insult, particularly when facts are ignored. Anwar also recounted his discussions with President Trump about Gaza during ASEAN meetings, advocating for a comprehensive solution to the issue.