BUKIT MERTAJAM, November 8 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed Malaysia’s independent and neutral stance in global trade and diplomacy, asserting that the nation will not yield to pressure from any major power.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Juru–Sungai Dua Toll Plaza Traffic Dispersal Project, Anwar said Malaysia will attend the upcoming G20 Summit in South Africa despite the United States’ decision to boycott the event, underscoring Malaysia’s sovereignty in charting its own international course.
He said Malaysia maintains strong trade relations with countries including the US, China, Brazil, and South Africa, as part of efforts to expand economic growth and job creation. “If we were to bow to America’s instructions, I would not go,” Anwar declared, adding that Malaysia’s balanced approach ensures stability and investor confidence.
He also rejected claims that signing the Agreement for Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the US compromised national sovereignty, explaining that Malaysia continues to engage in diverse partnerships, such as rare earth investments with China and Australia.
Anwar emphasised that the ART, signed during the 47th Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur, was driven by Malaysia’s economic interests and aligned with national security considerations. “We must build connections with many nations, not just the US and China.
To make Malaysia a confident and competitive trading nation,” he said, reaffirming that the country’s foreign policy remains rooted in independence, pragmatism, and the well-being of its people.
