KUALA LUMPUR, April 13 — The Electrical Industry Workers’ Union (EIWU) has voiced deep concern over the United States’ recent imposition of a 24% import tariff on Malaysian products, particularly those from the Electrical and Electronics (E&E) sector. The union warned that the move endangers the stability of Malaysia’s E&E industry, which accounted for RM161.3 billion in exports to the U.S. in 2023, and puts thousands of local jobs at risk.
With some manufacturers already planning shutdowns and layoffs due to reduced competitiveness, rising operational costs, and weakened global demand, the impact on workers—especially those aged 45 and above—is expected to be severe. Representing over 10,000 workers from more than 40 companies, EIWU has called on the Malaysian government and the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to urgently engage in diplomatic negotiations with the U.S. for tariff relief and to assert Malaysia’s stance in international trade forums.
The union also urged employers to maintain transparent communication with workers and to work closely with unions to uphold labor rights during this critical period.
