In a sharp rebuke of Malaysia’s new trade alignment, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has accused the government of compromising national independence through the Malaysia-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART 2025) — calling it a “lopsided deal” that places Washington’s interests above Malaysia’s.
Speaking at a press conference in Putrajaya, the former prime minister claimed that ART 2025 effectively transforms Malaysia into a “protectorate” of the United States, surrendering autonomy over trade, regulation, and economic policy.
“The agreement ties us to America’s rhythm — it makes us dance to their tune,” Mahathir said, arguing that the pact undermines the Federal Constitution, Bumiputera rights, and state authority.
He accused the government of misleading the public by citing an “exit clause,” saying it offers no real escape once Malaysia is locked into the framework.
Mahathir went further, warning that the deal could allow U.S. intervention in domestic areas ranging from agriculture and food production to defense and the rare earth sector.
“Even the authority to determine halal standards for imported goods might no longer rest with us,” he said.
While the government touts tariff cuts — from 25% to 19% — as a win for exporters, Mahathir called it “a sale of sovereignty disguised as progress.”
His criticism places fresh scrutiny on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s economic diplomacy, which aims to position Malaysia as a regional partner to major powers.
But for Mahathir, the cost is clear: “We have traded our right to choose for a promise of market access.”
