The government clarifies the US-Malaysia trade agreement does not limit nuclear partnerships or national energy policy decisions
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation has clarified that the Malaysia-United States Agreement on Reciprocal Trade does not alter the nation’s nuclear policy direction.
PETRA stated the government remains committed to ensuring all nuclear cooperation aligns with Malaysia’s national interests, security, and international commitments.
It emphasised this does not compromise the government’s sovereignty or autonomy in decision-making.
Based on input from the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, Article 5.3 of the ART does not bind Malaysia to rely exclusively on US technology.
Malaysia can acquire nuclear reactors, fuel, or materials from other countries if their offers are more competitive.
“Malaysia’s energy and nuclear policy sovereignty remains preserved,” the ministry said in a parliamentary reply.
The nation is free to evaluate partners like Russia, China, France, and South Korea based on technology, cost, safety, and compliance with standards.
PETRA explained that Article 5.3 should be read comprehensively. While its opening sentence appears restrictive, the closing clause allows Malaysia to decide based on commercial, technical, and security considerations aligned with national interest.
“Therefore, this article does not state any obstacles for Malaysia to establish relations and cooperation with technology supplier countries,” it added.
This includes cooperation on training, research, capacity development, and nuclear safety.
The government will continue a balanced, neutral, and national interest-based approach to nuclear technology development.
This approach will adhere to international legal commitments and requirements.
