Malaysia’s sovereignty is fully protected in the new US trade pact, say former top security officials after a detailed briefing.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia-United States Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) does not compromise national sovereignty, three former senior security officials confirmed today.
They concluded that all national interests are protected after a detailed examination of the pact’s contents.
The officials are former armed forces chief General (Rtd) Tan Sri Dr Zulkifeli Mohd Zin, former inspector-general of police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain and Malaysian Commando Veterans Club president Md Shah Yassin.
They attended a special briefing by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to understand the agreement’s essence.
Zulkifeli said the pact’s preamble clearly states both countries respect each other’s sovereignty and economic prosperity.
He explained the government has ensured national interests are guaranteed.
“There is no clause in the agreement that shows the government is compromising these principles,” he told reporters.
Addressing public perception, he clarified the ‘shall consult’ clause means negotiation, not requiring US approval for procurement.
“If Malaysia or the US do not agree due to their respective national interests, then we have the right to cancel the agreement,” he said.
Zulkifeli stressed the agreement underwent strict due process involving MITI, the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Cabinet.
He expressed full confidence in the process, stating the Attorney General’s Chambers would never compromise sovereignty.
Razarudin said MITI’s explanation dispelled concerns about sovereignty being affected.
He highlighted the agreement creates a win-win situation and provides certainty for businesses to enter the US market.
“That will increase or generate the economy of companies and also the country’s economy,” he added.
Md Shah echoed this, describing the pact as beneficial without tarnishing national dignity.
“As someone who served in command for 22 years, I do not see our country’s sovereignty being compromised through the explanation given,” he stated.
The officials received a detailed briefing from MITI deputy secretary-general (trade) Datuk Mastura Ahmad Mustafa.
Malaysia and the US signed the ART on October 26 during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
The agreement reduces Malaysia’s average tariff rate from 25% to 19% and provides wider market access for key exports.
