KUALA LUMPUR, October 31 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has clarified that the newly signed Malaysia-United States Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) was undertaken to attract high-value investments and boost trade with the US, not to compromise Malaysia’s sovereignty.
Speaking in Parliament, Anwar emphasized that the agreement includes an exit clause, ensuring that Malaysia retains full autonomy over its trade decisions and partnerships. Anwar, who signed the ART alongside US President Donald Trump during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on October 26, said the deal was thoroughly reviewed, including by China.
To ensure it does not hinder cooperation with other nations. He also noted that discussions with the US focused on enhancing trade, data centre investment, and AI development. Rejecting claims of subservience to the US, Anwar pointed out that Malaysia and ASEAN simultaneously.
Advanced trade ties with China through the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA 3.0), reflecting a balanced and strategic approach to global partnerships.
