GYEONGJU (South Korea), Nov 1 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today dismissed claims by certain quarters that the Malaysia-United States Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) is detrimental to the country, describing them as “simply political”.
Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said there must be a degree of compromise in any negotiations, especially when it involves major ties and investments, but stressed that Malaysia’s interests and sovereignty remain a priority.
He noted that Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz has already given a lengthy and clear explanation on the ART in Parliament.
“If we are going to argue over one or two words in the agreement that certain parties object to, then I would say there is no need for further clarification, as Tengku Zafrul has repeatedly explained the matter in Parliament.
“If they choose to continue attacking it, then it is a political matter,” he told reporters at the conclusion of the first day of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Economic Leaders’ Meeting here last night.
Anwar was responding to claims that the ART compromises Malaysia’s economic autonomy and contains provisions that could have negative long-term implications.
“This is not the only agreement in the world. Every country signs agreements, and we must look at the overall context, the implications, and what room we have to manoeuvre. It is not about avoiding (commitments), but about (seeking) leeways. All agreements are like that."
He said there can be no denying the importance of maintaining good relations with the US.
“We have meetings with (US President) Donald Trump and with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, carefully discussing matters in detail including on semiconductors and rare earth minerals. So, it is a lie to say that we are surrendering to the US."
Anwar reiterated that the signing of the ART took into consideration national interests and national laws.
"And to do that, we need patience and wisdom, not anger, not these continuous rancorous exchanges.
“Did we compromise or concede on our position regarding Gaza? No. Did I tell Trump to agree with everything? No. We said we support phase one (of the Gaza ceasefire plan, and) we want a comprehensive solution,” he said.
Addressing Malaysia’s approach to global diplomacy, including tensions between the US and China, as well as engagement with Brazil and South Africa, Anwar said he navigates these challenges based on Malaysia’s national interests.
“How do you manage to navigate in a situation that is quite volatile in terms of the tension between the US and China? How do you have the courage to get Brazil and South Africa into a forum together with President Donald Trump and the United States of America?
“My response is that we decide based on our own national interest,” he said.
