Malaysia’s Prime Minister Congratulates Donald Trump on His Political Comeback
PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has congratulated Donald Trump after the latter claimed victory in the US presidential election, calling it a "remarkable" political comeback for the former president four years after he left the White House.
A New Beginning for US-Malaysia Relations?
Anwar expressed his congratulations in a Facebook post, saying, "Congratulations to Trump on his remarkable political comeback and victory in the US presidential election. This new chapter brings renewed opportunities, and we’re ready to move forward with optimism, collaboration, and shared purpose. We look forward to working closely with the incoming president to foster mutual benefit for the people of both our nations."
Reinvigorating US-ASEAN Engagement
Anwar also urged the US to use its "considerable influence" to help end the ongoing conflict in Palestine and Ukraine. Noting that the US is Malaysia’s largest source of foreign investment and a vital player in the Asia-Pacific region, Anwar said he hopes that the superpower will reinvigorate its engagement with Southeast Asia when Malaysia assumes the Asean chairmanship next year.
A Rocky Road to Political Comeback
Trump’s political career had faced significant challenges, including a loss in the 2020 presidential election and a conviction on 34 counts of doctoring business records to cover up hush money payments to pornstar Stormy Daniels. However, the former president made a stunning political comeback, with Fox News projecting his victory in the recent election.
A New Era for US Trade Policy?
During his election campaign, Trump had vowed to impose high tariffs on shipping goods to the US, to encourage companies to build factories in the US rather than overseas. He also threatened to impose a 200% levy on vehicles made in Mexico. While it remains to be seen how his administration will approach trade policy, Tengku Zafrul Aziz, the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, expressed hope that the new government would continue the good relations forged with both Malaysia and Asean.
Conclusion
The election of Donald Trump as the next US president marks a new beginning for US-Malaysia relations, with opportunities for cooperation and collaboration on the table. As Malaysia assumes the Asean chairmanship next year, Anwar’s government hopes to reinvigorate US engagement with Southeast Asia, promoting mutual benefit and shared prosperity.
FAQs
Q: What did Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim say about Donald Trump’s political comeback?
A: Anwar congratulated Trump on his "remarkable" political comeback and victory in the US presidential election, expressing hope for renewed opportunities for cooperation and collaboration between the two nations.
Q: What are the implications of Trump’s trade policy for Malaysia?
A: The impact of Trump’s trade policy on Malaysia is yet to be seen, but his administration’s plans to impose high tariffs on imports and exports could affect the country’s trade and economic diversification efforts.
Q: How does Anwar’s government plan to approach US-Malaysia relations?
A: Anwar’s government is committed to maintaining strong, constructive ties with other nations, including the US, and is eager to work with the incoming president to foster mutual benefit and cooperation.