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LET US admit that the US-Malaysia Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART) is one of the worst trade agreements ever entered into by the Malaysian government.
A reading of its contents would make one think that Malaysia is still under a colonial yoke. Yes, we need investments and trade but surely, the US is not the only country with whom Malaysia can conduct commerce.
The nefarious aspects of the trade deal were camouflaged by the theatrics surrounding US President Donald Trump’s arrival – his symbolic dance, the obsequious behaviour of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and Trump’s exaggerated praise of Anwar as a “peacemaker”.
These gestures were meant to distract Malaysians from the ugly truths embedded in the deal.
Once the spectacle subsided, the obnoxious features of the trade pact began to surface. A close examination reveals that the deal is far from reciprocal; it is one-sided, blatantly favouring the US.
US president Donald Trump (left) and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim ink the US-Malaysia Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART) on Oct 26 in conjunction with the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur (Image credit: Anwar Ibrahim/Facebook)
Trade-off for self-glorification?
The agreement effectively prevents Malaysia from blocking US investments, technology and digital services.
It throws the protection of local industries out the window and gives the US undue influence over what goods may enter Malaysia – all under the guise of “shared interests.”
This raises a critical question: does the New Economic Policy (NEP) still stand in the wake of this trade deal?
If protections for local industries and businesses are dismantled, then Malaysia’s long-standing mechanisms for economic balance and social equity are at serious risk.
While colonialism in its traditional form has long ended, this trade deal represents the worst elements of modern neo-colonialism and US imperialism.
It appears to be a strategic move by Washington to counter China’s economic influence – but why must Malaysia serve as a pawn in this great power rivalry?
Anwar seems eager to ride high on this deal, believing that a pact with the Americans will elevate his political standing.
Indeed, there are reports portraying him as one of the world’s most popular Muslim politicians. But how can such “popularity” be justified when he has subjected Malaysia to US hegemony?
Moreover, by remaining silent on the plight of Palestinians and failing to confront the US over Gaza, Anwar has betrayed Malaysia’s long-held principles of justice, peace and neutrality.
No premier before him has so readily succumbed to imperial interests as Anwar has.
Since Anwar himself has declared that Malaysia could withdraw from the trade deal if necessary, I take this opportunity to challenge him to do just that.
He must realise that the independence and dignity of Malaysia are not commodities to be bargained away at the altar of American interests. – Oct 30, 2025
Former DAP stalwart and Penang deputy chief minister II Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy is chairman of the United Rights of Malaysian Party (Urimai) interim council.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
The post Ramasamy: ART is Malaysia’s worst trade deal; a new form of neo-colonial, imperial subjugation first appeared on Focus Malaysia.
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