PENANG Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz is set to lead Malaysia’s delegation to Washington early next week to discuss the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States.
He said this follows engagement sessions with manufacturers and association representatives to gather feedback after US President Donald Trump announced a 24 per cent tariff on Malaysian imports.
Asked by reporters what would happen after the 90-day pause announced by Trump for more than 75 countries, Chow said “it would be anyone’s guess.” He was speaking after attending the Raya Open House hosted by state Deputy Chief Minister I, Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, at Setia SPICE Arena.
“I think it is still early. We have to wait for the negotiations. What would happen is anyone’s guess. The tariffs are impacting the whole world, including the United States itself,” Chow said.
“I recently attended an engagement session with factory representatives and associations, together with the Minister of Human Resources and the Deputy Minister of Miti, to listen more closely to the manufacturers’ own suggestions and what they expect from Malaysia.
“At this point, Malaysia has chosen to hold negotiations with the United States. The Miti Minister will be departing early next week and has already secured appointment slots with relevant parties in the United States to present Malaysia’s issues for consideration. He will represent the interests of Malaysia, the manufacturers, and the exporters.
“It is also important to protect our workers from the impacts of these tariffs, including potential job losses and other consequences,” he added.
Tengku Zafrul will be accompanied by Miti deputy secretary-general (trade) Mastura Ahmad Mustafa, as well as other officials from the ministry. Miti’s representatives at Malaysia’s Embassy in Washington are also expected to join the delegation.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat