Malaysia Defends US Trade Deal as Concerns Grow Over Sovereignty

Malaysia said its sovereignty remains protected and it isn’t bound by sanctions imposed by US, as Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim faces criticism for a trade deal with the superpower.

“Malaysia remains free to make decisions based on its own laws, national policies, and interests,” the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry wrote in an FAQ on the trade agreement published late Monday.

“Malaysia also does not need to amend existing laws to sign the ART, which proves that national sovereignty is not compromised,” it added, referring to the reciprocal trade agreement by its acronym.

Former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday ...