KUALA LUMPUR — The government has ensured the country’s sovereignty and national interests are safeguarded in the ongoing negotiations for the Malaysia–South Korea Reciprocal Trade Agreement (RTA), said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting, Tengku Zafrul said the government’s negotiating team comprises experienced representatives from multiple ministries and agencies — many of whom were also involved in securing Malaysia’s 19 previous free trade agreements (FTAs).
“The negotiating team has considered all risks and aspects to ensure this is the best agreement for Malaysia. In any negotiation, it cannot be one-sided; there are things that need to be given and things that need to be defended,” he said, reported Bernama.
“If there’s something we feel we can’t budge on, we stick to our position. But if there is room for further negotiation, we will negotiate to get the best results.”
Tengku Zafrul added that while the government welcomes public feedback on the RTA, any criticism must be grounded in facts rather than political motives.
He said his ministry will intensify public engagement efforts to boost understanding of the trade pact and its potential impact.
Malaysia has so far signed 19 FTAs, including with the European Union, the United Arab Emirates, and most recently, South Korea. — November 1, 2025