GEORGE TOWN, November 26 – The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) and Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) have condemned a recently signed Malaysia–US trade agreement, claiming it undermines the nation’s sovereignty and economic independence.
The groups allege the pact compels Malaysia to align its trade and foreign policies with U.S. interests, restricts the country’s ability to raise revenue, and forces a US$220 billion spending commitment over the next decade — a move they warn could plunge Malaysia into severe financial instability.
According to CAP and SAM, the deal grants the U.S. influence over Malaysia’s domestic standards, taxation, and foreign investment decisions, while offering limited reciprocal benefits. They have urged the federal government to halt ratification pending a full parliamentary review and public consultation.
“This is not a trade agreement — it is an act of surrender,” the organisations said, calling on Malaysia to defend its right to self-governance and economic autonomy.
