KANGAR, April 27 — A special Parliament session will be held on May 5 to explain measures taken by the government to tariffs imposed by the United States.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it would also allow MPs to discuss the impact of tariffs on Malaysia’s economy and measures to overcome it.
“This is the time for all parties, all the people to focus on the growth of the country. Uplift the dignity of this country. Malaysia is a great country, capable of being an exemplary country among the best countries in Asia, provided we are united and work hard to uplift our economic dignity,” he said.
He said this when speaking at the Perlis-level Aidilfitri Madani 2025 celebration held at Dataran Lok 9, Kuala Perlis, near here today, graced by Raja of Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail and Raja Perempuan of Perlis Tuanku Tengku Fauziah Almarhum Tengku Abdul Rashid.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, said Malaysia, as the second-largest global semiconductor producer, has exported 60 per cent of its products, worth more than RM140 billion, to the US
“That is why international relations with the US and with other countries must remain moderate so as not to affect the people’s lives, their jobs and the country’s economic growth. This economic growth is to ensure comfort for the people.
“In dealing with this problem, we have two ministers sent to the US to consult with their trade ministers so the US understands what we are doing and so there is fairer action,” he said.
Anwar said Malaysia also does not agree with the tariff hikes.
“As a trading country, no country … should set arbitrary rates by unilateral assessment. We are bound by the WTO (World Trade Organisation), the United Nations and this is called multilateral.
“We are joined by many countries but we have to accept the reality and deal with it wisely,” he said.
On April 2, US President Donald Trump announced a series of reciprocal tariffs on many countries, including 24 per cent on import of goods from Malaysia, but the rates have been suspended for 90 days.
— Bernama
