In a determined call for regional unity amid escalating U.S. tariffs, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged Southeast Asia to stand firm together. Speaking at a prime minister's department staff meeting on Monday, Anwar emphasized that ASEAN's combined strength – a population of 640 million paired with robust economic power – positions the bloc as a key player in global trade.
The sweeping levies imposed last week under President Donald Trump have already rattled stock markets and stirred concerns among governments worldwide. In the region, manufacturing powerhouse Vietnam faced a 46 percent tariff on its exports to the United States, while Cambodia was hit with a 49 percent duty. Malaysia, by contrast, received a lower impact with a 24 percent tariff.
As Malaysia holds the rotating chair of ASEAN this year, its government is actively engaging with member states to develop a unified strategy. Economic ministers from Southeast Asia are scheduled to meet on Thursday to discuss these tariffs and iron out coordinated responses. The Malaysian administration is committed to ensuring that each country can clearly state its position, while moving together as a unified group.
Reinforcing this measured approach, Trade Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz stated, "I think two wrongs don't make a right," urging calm and caution. His remarks underline a shared belief that escalating tensions into a trade war would only harm the global economy.
This unfolding situation highlights the delicate balance between international diplomacy and economic stability. As young global citizens, business innovators, tech enthusiasts, and cultural influencers around the world watch closely, the call for unity within ASEAN serves as a timely reminder of the power of collective action in the face of global challenges.
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Malaysian PM: Southeast Asia must 'stand firm' against U.S. tariffs
cgtn.com
