MALAYSIA will not hastily cancel the Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART) with the United States (US), which was signed on October 26, after the import tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump were struck down by the country's Supreme Court.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government needs to be given space and time to examine and decide, including looking at the importance and implications for the country's economy.
"Why do we want to rush... because the US Supreme Court ruled three days ago, today we have to decide according to the Supreme Court's decision, I do not agree," he said in response to a supplementary question from Datuk Rosol Wahid (PN - Hulu Terengganu) during the Prime Minister's Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Responding to a question from Hasan Karim (PH - Pasir Gudang) who urged the government to cancel the Malaysia - US ART signed last year, the Prime Minister asked that the government be given space to assess its impact on the country's economy.
"When it comes to dignity and sovereignty, that's another matter. But when it comes to trade strategy, we have to take into account national interest. That's all I ask.
“At this stage, as I have emphasised, we are monitoring the situation closely. We do not want to make any hasty decisions that could potentially harm our trade interests,” he added.
Anwar also defended former investment, trade and industry minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz over the signing of ART, stating that the initial decision made by Zafrul was in the national interest.
"We are a trading nation, and within the provisions of the agreement, we can safeguard our interests, including those that ensure the security and economic stability of the country.
"From my understanding, maintaining these provisions will not compromise national security or Malaysia's economic interests.
"So, in my view, it is sufficient," he added. - February 24, 2026
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