PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced today that Malaysia will remove tariffs on beef imports from Kenya, a move aimed at reducing costs for Malaysian consumers while maintaining support for local farmers.
“The more important issue is not whether to abolish or retain the tariff, but how to achieve lower prices. As you know, beef prices are far too high in Malaysia,” Anwar said at a press conference concluding his visit to three African nations.
He explained that Malaysia must balance the protection of local cattle farmers with the need to ensure affordable food, noting that the country already imports beef from several other nations.
“The cost of beef in Malaysia is high. Our tendency is to expand and simplify imports so that costs to the public are lower,” he added.
On the financial impact of scrapping tariffs, Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, described it as “very small, extremely minimal, very insignificant.”
During a joint press conference with Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto on Monday, the two leaders also announced plans to elevate bilateral ties to a strategic partnership and remove tariffs on agricultural products and beef from Kenya.
Anwar added that Malaysia sees no reason to restrict imports to a select few countries, noting that developing nations should have fair access provided they meet the necessary procedures and standards.
“As long as procedures and parameters are met, there is no reason to discriminate against poorer countries,” he said, adding that agencies such as the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) and the Ministry of Agriculture must ensure equitable access.
While Kenya aims to expand its exports, Anwar said the country also intends to continue importing Malaysian products, including around RM1 billion worth of palm oil, which is subsequently exported elsewhere.
“The same applies to our Proton cars,” he noted. President Ruto also expressed interest in semiconductor development, energy transition, and digital industry collaboration.
Anwar stressed that relevant ministries, including the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), must implement these agreements proactively to benefit Malaysians across sectors.
“The challenge is to execute this decision. It would be a huge loss if we did not fully leverage the goodwill and support of our African partners,” he said.
Regarding several memoranda of understanding signed between Malaysia, Ethiopia, and Kenya, Anwar said they will be presented to the Cabinet on Friday to ensure follow-up action is taken, citing their significant potential.
Anutin - Claims of Malaysia’s involvement were “false and unfair”
Separately, Anwar addressed concerns regarding Malaysia’s role in the Thailand-Cambodia border issue.
He said he was personally contacted by Thailand Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who assured him that claims of Malaysia’s involvement were “false and unfair.”
“The Thai Prime Minister called me this morning to provide assurances that these allegations are untrue,” Anwar said, emphasising that Malaysia’s role has been limited to facilitation.
“He believes criticism of Malaysia is unjust… he understands the facts and said, ‘Anwar, don’t worry, we know your role is only as a facilitator. The decision rests entirely with Thailand and Cambodia.’”
Anutin is scheduled to visit Malaysia tomorrow, where the two leaders will hold bilateral talks to explore further cooperation between the two nations.
Anwar expressed disappointment at the criticism from certain quarters in Malaysia.
“I am not surprised, but I am disappointed that some in Malaysia appear too eager to condemn the government, even though the country’s role has been clearly stated,” he said.
He also lamented the perception among some politicians that decisions rest on a single individual, stressing that multiple ministries, including Foreign Affairs, Home Affairs, Defence, and the Armed Forces leadership, are involved.
“Many parties are engaged, which makes facilitation easier thanks to Malaysia’s willingness to mediate,” he said.
Following his meeting with Anutin, scheduled for tomorrow, Anwar will depart for Sabah. - November 25, 2025
