AI chip trade permit ensures Malaysia's compliance, credibility
In stating this, Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA) president Datuk Seri Wong Siew Hai said the measure sent a strong signal of Malaysia's seriousness in complying with international trade obligations, including the US export controls.
'The trade permit makes it clear that the government will not tolerate any abuse of exports, transshipment, or illicit trading,' Wong told Bernama when asked to comment on the current measures announced by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) on Monday.
Wong added that many Malaysian firms have already taken proactive steps, including internal audits, to ensure they adhere to local and global regulations.
'We in Malaysia, both the private sector and government, take this very seriously. We want to make sure everything is fully compliant,' he added.
However, Wong said there is a need for greater clarity from the government on specific reporting obligations under the strategic trade permit.
'We need to know what needs to be reported and what constitutes notification to authorities. Once this is clear, companies can incorporate any additional steps needed to meet compliance,' he said.
MITI on Monday announced that, effective immediately, all exports, transshipments, and transits of US-origin high-performance AI chips would be subject to a Strategic Trade Permit under Section 12 of the Strategic Trade Act 2010 (STA 2010), also known as the Catch-All Control provision.
Under the provision, individuals or companies are required to notify authorities at least 30 days in advance if they intend to export, transship, or transit any unlisted item that may be suspected of being misused or involved in restricted activities.
Meanwhile, Pacific Research Center of Malaysia principal adviser Oh Ei Sun said the move would not affect local data centre or AI development projects, as it pertains primarily to the transshipment or export of US-made chips, not their import into Malaysia for domestic use.
'I would not say Malaysia's industry lacked transparency before this. But the US is now taking this issue very seriously, and we are acting accordingly because we value our overall relationship with the US,' he said. - Bernama
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Barnama
42 minutes ago
- Barnama
Luxchem Buys Five Industrial Lands In Klang For RM45.6 Mln
BUSINESS KUALA LUMPUR, July 15 (Bernama) -- Luxchem Corporation Bhd, via its wholly-owned subsidiary Luxchem Trading Sdn Bhd (LTSB), has signed agreements to acquire five leasehold industrial plots in Mukim Kapar, Klang, for RM45.6 million. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia today, the chemical product manufacturer said the lands, spanning a combined area of 4.03 hectares, come with leases expiring on March 28, 2095. 'The proposed acquisition forms part of the group's business expansion strategy and disciplined capital allocation framework, representing a strategic move to diversify its asset base while optimising the use of surplus cash reserves. 'Rather than maintaining excess funds in fixed deposits with modest returns, the group is investing in real estate assets that offer greater long-term yield potential through capital appreciation, future development prospects and immediate rental income,' said Luxchem. The plots are being acquired from two private firms, Leisure Harvest Sdn Bhd and Excellent Delight Sdn Bhd. Luxchem said that, barring any unforeseen circumstances, the acquisition is expected to be completed within four months from the date of the sales and purchase agreements. 'The board believes that the proposed acquisition is in the best interest of the group, taking into account the strategic location and income-generating potential of the properties,' it said. The group added that the acquisition will be funded through a combination of internally generated funds and bank borrowings. -- BERNAMA
New Straits Times
44 minutes ago
- New Straits Times
More balanced, constructive dialogue on e-commerce fee changes, urges Mamba
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Micro Business Association (Mamba) has called for a more balanced and constructive dialogue on the recent fee structure changes by e-commerce platforms. The platform fee changes, set to take effect on July 16, reportedly include a new 54 sen support fee per order, higher transaction charges and increased commission rates for 'pay later' services. The association said this issue requires a holistic perspective, one that considers both the sustainability of digital platforms and the competitiveness of local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Its secretary-general Alvin Low Wei Yan said it is important to avoid scare tactics and politicising important conversations that directly affect thousands of local sellers. "There needs to be room for discussion so that everyone, from sellers to shoppers to platforms, can win," he said in a statement. While acknowledging that price hikes are never easy, he said current global dynamics, particularly the escalating US-China trade war and imposition of tariffs, may trigger a surge of low-cost Chinese products being redirected into Southeast Asian markets, including Malaysia. "We are already seeing cheap imports entering the market through new and existing e-commerce platforms targeting consumers in Malaysia, undercutting local sellers and threatening their long-term survival. "This trend is likely to accelerate in the months ahead, and we must prepare for it strategically," Low said. He said it is essential for the government and local sellers to work together with platforms that prioritise MSMEs within their ecosystem. To counter current pressures, he said that platforms must continue investing in infrastructure, tools and services that improve customer satisfaction such as faster delivery, reliable refund processes, better search functions and AI-powered product recommendations. These improvements make platforms more attractive to buyers, increase traffic and in turn boost visibility and conversion rates for sellers. "When platforms are seen as trustworthy, convenient and efficient, everyone benefits. Sellers who operate on such platforms stand a better chance of building customer loyalty and driving repeat business," he added. Low said joint investment from both sellers and platforms is vital. This is especially with the e-commerce market projected to reach RM67.1 billion (US$14.7 billion) by 2028. At the same time, Mamba reiterates the significance of balancing the needs of MSMEs with rising customer expectations. It said the poor buyer experiences due to delays, miscommunication or lack of transparency, have a real and direct impact on seller performance, ratings and returns. "That's why blanket criticism against the e-commerce platforms may not be helpful. "Calling for authorities to threaten or punish platforms simply for raising fees is counter-productive and risks undermining the very ecosystem we are trying to strengthen," he added.
The Star
an hour ago
- The Star
Anwar expected to announce judicial appointments July 16
PUTRAJAYA: An announcement regarding judicial appointments is expected on Wednesday (July 16), says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He acknowledged delays and public unease over certain appointments but assured that all processes have been carried out fairly and transparently. "This morning, I had a lengthy discussion with the Conference of Rulers. "I think let them decide and tomorrow, hopefully, there will be an announcement that would clearly dispel the so-called negative perceptions," he said in his speech at Malaysia's International Conference on Integrity and Governance here on Tuesday (July 15). Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, stressed that the government fully upholds judicial independence and has not interfered in any court proceedings or decisions during his tenure. "…so I rest my case, and I hope when the announcement is made, things will prove that this government is committed to reform, including the principle of judicial independence," he added. – Bernama
