PM: Unite to deal with US tariffs
'This is a crucial time for everyone to focus on the country's growth'
KANGAR: All parties and the people should unite and work together to deal with the tariff hikes imposed by the United States on Malaysia, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said this when noting the special Parliament sitting that will be held on May 5 to explain the measures taken by the government in response to the tariff hikes.
The sitting, he added, will also allow all MPs to discuss the impact of the US action on the country's economy and consider measures to overcome it.
'This is the time for all parties, all the people to focus on the growth of the country. Uplift the dignity of this country.
'Malaysia is a great country, capable of being an exemplary one among the best in Asia, provided we are united and work hard to uplift our economic dignity,' he said.
Anwar was speaking at the Perlis state-level Aidilfitri Madani 2025 celebration held at Dataran Lok 9, Kuala Perlis, near here yesterday, Bernama reported.
The event was graced by the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail, and the Raja Perempuan of Perlis, Tuanku Tengku Fauziah Almarhum Tengku Abdul Rashid.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said Malaysia, as the second highest producer of semiconductors, has also exported 60% of the production to the United States worth more than RM140bil.
'That is why our international relations with the United States and other countries must remain moderate so as not to affect the people's lives, their jobs and the country's economic growth. This economic growth is to ensure comfort for the people.
'In dealing with this problem, we have sent two ministers to the United States to consult with their trade representatives so that America also understands what we are doing and so that there is a fairer action or decision,' Anwar said.
He said Malaysia also does not agree with the tariff hike.
'As a trading nation, no country other than the United States should set arbitrary rates (tariffs) according to their unilateral assessment.
'We are bound by the WTO (World Trade Organisation) and the United Nations, and this is called multilateral.
'We are joined by many countries but we have to accept the reality and deal with it wisely,' he said.
On April 2, US President Donald Trump announced a series of reciprocal tariffs imposed on many countries, including 24% on goods imported from Malaysia, but subsequently suspended the move for 90 days.
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