PM Anwar: Trump agrees to lift tariffs on certain Malaysian exports after “The Beast” talk on trade and Gaza
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he had raised with United States President Donald Trump the need to reconsider Washington’s tariff rate on Malaysian exports, describing the existing 19% level as “still too high” during a private discussion in The Beast en route to the ASEAN Summit.
Speaking at a press conference after the summit’s closing ceremony, Anwar said the US president has since agreed to impose zero tariffs on Malaysia’s major export – semiconductors – a move he welcomed as a positive outcome from their engagement.
“I said 19% is still high for us. But now he has imposed a zero tariff on our major export, semiconductors. I thanked him for that,” Anwar said.
He said their conversation also touched on regional ties, including Malaysia’s relations with China, Trump’s invitation to Brazil and South Africa to the Asean–US dialogue, and ongoing efforts toward peace in Gaza.
“I explained why I had met Hamas leaders in Doha — to urge them to support the peace initiative led by Arab neighbours and the OIC.
“I told President Trump that any peace effort must be comprehensive, durable and fair,” he said.
Anwar described Trump as “a good listener in private conversations,” adding that while he had disagreed with the US leader on certain points, he appreciated the opportunity to convey Malaysia’s position directly.
“I did my best to present the voice of conscience — what Malaysians expect us to stand for.
“Had he not visited, I wouldn’t have had that chance to speak to him directly. At least he heard us out,” he said.
The Prime Minister added that parts of their discussion were later reiterated during the formal bilateral meeting and Asean sessions, but stressed that many details remain confidential out of respect for diplomatic protocol.
On Sunday, after arriving at Kompleks Bunga Raya aboard Air Force One, Trump was received by Anwar.
Following his lighthearted viral dance, Trump invited Anwar to join him in ‘The Beast’ en route to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
It was an exceptionally rare honour for any foreign leader — even a host nation’s prime minister — to ride in the U.S. president’s heavily armoured limousine, given the strict security protocols enforced by the Secret Service.
