KUALA LUMPUR, January 24 – Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani told Parliament today that he intends to tighten and clarify provisions in the Agreement of Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States during upcoming ratification talks, stressing that Malaysia’s sovereignty and national interests must be fully protected.
Johari noted that the agreement, signed in October last year but not yet ratified, contains clauses that require further deliberation, particularly amid criticism that some provisions appear to favour US economic interests and were negotiated without adequate parliamentary involvement.
He highlighted concerns over clauses such as Article 5.1, which critics say could compel Malaysia to align with US sanctions, and Article 6.2, which may affect government-linked companies and Bumiputera-focused policies. Johari pledged to refine unclear sections.
Ensure stronger safeguards for domestic interests, and consider Opposition input in the ratification process, reaffirming his commitment that economic cooperation should not come at the expense of Malaysia’s sovereignty.
