Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has said the government will take a measured approach in assessing the impact of a recent US Supreme Court ruling on tariffs, stressing that Malaysia–US trade relations must not be harmed.
Responding to calls to review trade agreements following the court decision, Anwar told Parliament during Prime Minister’s Question Time that any decision must be carefully considered. “Calls to reassess based on the court ruling – I agree with that. But any decision from us should not be made immediately. We need to wait,” he said.
He noted that the US government continues to apply other legal mechanisms, including Section 232, which allows sector-specific tariffs after Department of Commerce investigations, and Section 301, which targets countries engaging in unfair trade practices. Several other provisions, including Sections 201 and 338, remain pending and depend on Congressional authority, making their implementation uncertain.
“Why should we rush? Just because the US Supreme Court made a decision three days ago, are we expected to act immediately according to that ruling? I disagree,” he said.
Anwar emphasised that Malaysia’s priority is to defend its economic and trade interests, monitor international responses, and consider domestic US policies. “This is not about challenging the Supreme Court decision. Certain sections can still be applied in trade dealings, which are not included in the ruling,” he explained.
He urged the government to allow the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) and Cabinet ministers sufficient time to review all aspects before making any decisions. The Prime Minister cautioned that hasty actions could jeopardise gains already secured and potentially impact key sectors, including Malaysia’s growing semiconductor industry.
“We are still examining developments in the US, including ongoing Congressional debates and other provisions used by the US President. We need time to review all implications carefully,” Anwar said. Decisions will only be made after a thorough review at the next Cabinet meeting, with MITI tasked to provide all necessary information to ensure that Malaysia’s trade and economic interests are protected.
