Tengku Zafrul: Malaysia will prioritize its economic interests, trade and foreign policies should not be dictated by any nation.

Tengku Zafrul: Malaysia will prioritize its economic interests, trade and foreign policies should not be dictated by any nation.

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 18 — Malaysia will not allow any nation to dictate its trade, investment, or foreign policies, said Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

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KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 18 — Malaysia will not allow any nation to dictate its trade, investment, or foreign policies, said Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

Speaking at the China Conference: Southeast Asia 2025, he emphasized Malaysia’s independence in making economic decisions that benefit its people. “As long as our engagements bring positive spillovers, we will continue them,” he said.

Responding to a question about Malaysia’s relationship with Hong Kong amid U.S. trade tensions, Tengku Zafrul reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to honoring its economic ties. “As long as Hong Kong remains a key trade and investment platform, we will maintain our strong relationship,” he added.

He also highlighted ASEAN’s firm stance on neutrality, stating that the region has successfully navigated past geopolitical tensions, including the Cold War and shifting U.S. policies.

Malaysia remains open to global trade, actively renegotiating the Malaysia-EU Free Trade Agreement, strengthening ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and exploring potential BRICS membership.

“Our strategy is to uphold ASEAN’s centrality while enhancing intra-ASEAN trade to ensure economic resilience amid external pressures,” he concluded. — Bernama

Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz addresses the media at the China Conference: Southeast Asia 2025. — Bernama pic

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