Seberang jaya: Malaysia remains a free and sovereign nation in establishing international relations without yielding to any major power, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He emphasized that this stance allows Malaysia to maintain trade and investment relations with various countries, including the United States, China, Brazil, and South Africa, benefiting the economy and the well-being of its people.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prime Minister Anwar cited Malaysia's recent activities as evidence of its independent position on the global stage. He mentioned the signing of a trade agreement with the United States during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, which led to criticism suggesting Malaysia was aligning too closely with the US. Anwar clarified that Malaysia's sovereignty is evident as it continues to engage with other nations, such as South Africa, despite US pressures.

Anwar reiterated this position during a speech at the groundbreaking ceremony for a traffic dispersal project at the Seberang Jaya Expo Site. He was joined by key officials, including Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. He affirmed that Malaysia's agreement with the US does not limit its ability to collaborate with other countries, particularly in the rare earth sector, where investments are also sourced from Australia and China.

The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of maintaining a pragmatic approach to attract investments in high-impact sectors like semiconductors and green energy, which are crucial for Malaysia's economic growth. The ART, signed on October 26 during the ASEAN Summit, aims to renegotiate tariffs on Malaysia, showcasing the country's ongoing efforts to strengthen its economic ties while preserving its sovereignty.