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Backlash Against Anwar's Trade Deal Sparks Resignation Calls

11/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim faces backlash over the Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART) with the United States, with some lawmakers claiming it undermines national sovereignty.
Former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has called for Anwar's resignation, asserting the deal positions Malaysia as a vassal state.
Investment Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz defended the ART, stating it protects Malaysian jobs and maintains a competitive tariff rate of 19%.
He noted that Malaysia can terminate the agreement and that its sovereignty is protected through various clauses.

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Story summary

Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim faces backlash over the Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART) with the United States, with some lawmakers claiming it undermines national sovereignty.
Former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has called for Anwar's resignation, asserting the deal positions Malaysia as a vassal state.
Investment Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz defended the ART, stating it protects Malaysian jobs and maintains a competitive tariff rate of 19%.
He noted that Malaysia can terminate the agreement and that its sovereignty is protected through various clauses.