Malaysia Firm Against Unilateral Tariffs, Reaffirms Support For Multilateral Trade
ISKANDAR PUTERI, June 19 (Bernama) -- 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 said the government does not support or condone any form of unilateral trade action, including those proposed by US President Donald Trump.
'We are a trading nation. We believe 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 said in his special keynote address at the Nikkei Forum Medini, Johor 2025 here at Iskandar Puteri today.
He also disclosed that Malaysia is actively pursuing dialogue with the United States to resolve 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,' he revealed.
Anwar said ASEAN has remained united in defending its economic interests, especially in response to protectionist measures that could disrupt regional supply chains and trade flows.
At the same time, he acknowledged that the United States remains Malaysia's largest trading partner in several key sectors, including electrical and electronics (E&E). 'Sixty per cent of our E&E exports go to the United States. Our ties remain strong despite differences in foreign policy or trade matters,' he noted.
The prime minister said Malaysia, as part of ASEAN, will work closely with regional partners, including Japan, China, and South Korea, to respond to any moves that may harm the global trade ecosystem.
Anwar concluded his speech by affirming Malaysia's readiness to strengthen global engagement and uphold economic openness in the face of emerging challenges.
Meanwhile, the prime minister reiterated Malaysia's firm stance on international justice and foreign policy, including its position on the situation in Gaza and the 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 said.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Focus Malaysia
15 minutes ago
- Focus Malaysia
PM Anwar vows unity govt will prioritise grassroots voices
PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasised the government's commitment to listening to the people's concerns during a grassroots programme, adding that Madani also listens to the grassroots before deciding on policies. Speaking at the Gotong Royong Kenduri Rakyat event in Dataran Kg Pachitan, Anwar noted that the gathering was special as it brought together himself, both deputy prime ministers, and several Cabinet ministers to discuss issues affecting villagers. 'This is a special occasion as we have the PM, both deputy prime ministers, and several Cabinet ministers in a village where we discussed issues faced by the people and how best we can resolve them. 'From a macroeconomic perspective, our economic growth is good with low inflation and unemployment, but there still seems to be some worry at the lower level. 'Let me assure you that the Madani government is here to hear you out,' he said at the programme. Anwar also highlighted the strong unity and understanding within the Madani government as it remains focused on driving Malaysia's progress and prosperity. Anwar assured that his administration prioritises grassroots opinions in decision-making and emphasised that the Madani government remains united and focused on national development. 'We want to continue to develop this country, and I must say the understanding among us is extraordinary. We remain focused on the tasks before us,' he added. The programme aims to strengthen ties between elected representatives and the public by providing a relaxed platform for direct engagement and voicing concerns. —July 1, 2025 Main image: Malay Mail
Borneo Post
15 minutes ago
- Borneo Post
Kelantan Ulama expresses support for Anwar's leadership
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim PUTRAJAYA (July 20): Deputy chairman of Jabhah Pondok Kelantan Syeikh Wazir Che Awang Al-Makki Hafizahullah has expressed full support for the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and called for the continuation of the Anwar-led MADANI government. He said the religious scholars would continue to support the Prime Minister and were ready to assist in overcoming any challenges during his administration. 'We fully support the leadership of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. God willing, we stand behind him. 'All the obstacles and challenges in this country can be overcome. Malaysia can be saved, and the government under Datuk Seri's leadership can be preserved,' he said when speaking at the 'Malaysia Bermunajat 2025' programme at Putra Mosque here last night. The programme, attended by Anwar and thousands of congregants, aimed to enliven the culture of 'munajat' (supplication) and appreciation of knowledge as the foundation for uniting the ummah and building a society grounded in Malaysian MADANI values. Meanwhile, Syeikh Wazir said frequent changes in government within short periods were not encouraged in Islam, and suggested that a good administration be maintained for up to 10 years so that the people could benefit from it. 'In Malaysia, we see governments changing every five years, two years, or even after one year, resulting in shifting policies, the decline of religious schools, and a decline in all areas, (including) the economy. This is not the Islamic way,' he said. Yesterday, Anwar urged Muslims to continue defending the legacy of Islamic scholarship and strengthening the relationship between religious scholars (ulama) and leaders (umara) in facing the challenges of the modern era, including the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalisation. – Bernama
Barnama
33 minutes ago
- Barnama
Malaysia, Singapore To Strengthen Ties In Govtech, Housing And Public Sector Reform
PUTRAJAYA, July 20 (Bernama) – Malaysia and Singapore are now exploring strategic cooperation in three main areas – GovTech, public housing and public sector reform – to strengthen public service delivery. Chief Secretary to the Government (KSN) Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar said these were the main areas of collaboration identified during his three-day official working visit to Singapore beginning Friday (July 18). 'We want to learn from Singapore. Firstly, in regard to GovTech, as they have already implemented it, while we are in the process of launching our own. 'Secondly, their affordable housing through the Singapore Housing Board. And thirdly, we want to learn about reforms in the public service,' he said. He was speaking to reporters after launching the Sports Carnival of the Alumni Association of MRSM Malaysia (ANSARA Malaysia) here today. Shamsul Azri said Singapore welcomed the cooperation and exchange of best practices between the two countries to improve the quality of public service. 'Singapore welcomed our proposals… we also had sessions with them to discuss strategic cooperation between the Malaysian government and the Singaporean government,' he added. Earlier, in his speech, he urged Malaysians to adopt a healthy lifestyle through sports and good nutrition. Citing Singapore as an example, he said their average life expectancy is 84 years, compared to about 73 to 74 years in Malaysia.
