Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim slams opposition for criticising US-Malaysia trade agreement without understanding its contents, defends government’s anti-corruption efforts.
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has condemned opposition critics for attacking the Malaysia-US Agreement on Reciprocal Trade without comprehending the document’s contents.
Anwar stated their reckless comments without solid basis reflect poor political discourse levels in the country.
“Sometimes, our colleagues in Parliament, when there is an agreement with the US, will immediately say we have given in, we have been colonised,” he said during his Festival of Ideas 2025 closing ceremony speech.
“Have you read the document or not? Do you understand it? That’s the problem… the level of political debate is poor.”
Malaysia and the US signed the ART on October 26 during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
The Washington-proposed deal renegotiates tariffs imposed on Malaysia, reducing them from 25% to 19% under President Donald Trump’s Executive Order 14257.
Anwar emphasised that political leaders should evaluate policies based on national benefits rather than sowing hatred or prejudice.
He stressed Malaysia must wisely leverage foreign trade and research relations to strengthen economic and academic standing.
“The recent ASEAN Summit showed that all countries are keen to invest, increase trade, research and university collaboration,” he noted.
“This shows growing confidence in Malaysia.”
The Prime Minister also urged younger generations to pioneer fresh ideas rooted in truth, justice and humanity values.
He praised today’s student leaders for being more civilised and fact-based than some Parliament members who debate without solid foundation.
Anwar highlighted the government’s strengthened anti-corruption efforts, revealing significant results over two years.
“Never before in history has this been achieved,” he declared.
“In two years, we have succeeded in curbing many smuggling, online gambling, leakage and corruption cases.”
He confirmed RM15.5 billion has been saved through these efforts.
“Not a word has been heard from the opposition supporting this effort,” Anwar observed.
“In fact, some want to defend the major corrupt figures.” – Bernama
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