KUALA LUMPUR, August 4 – The purchase of Boeing aircraft by Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) is a strategic investment and not a misuse of public funds, clarified Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Addressing criticism, he explained that the deal, announced in March prior to any U.S. tariff changes, will be entirely financed by MAG without involving taxpayer money. Tengku Zafrul emphasized that listing major U.S.-bound purchases like the Boeing order helped Malaysia in its trade negotiations, demonstrating the country’s value as a buyer.
This contributed to the U.S. decision to reduce tariffs on Malaysian goods from 25% to 19%. He described the move as a “smart strategy” born of careful diplomacy, protecting both national and corporate interests.
