Malaysia Stands Firm on Gaza Despite Tariff Pressure, Says PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, July 22, 2025 : Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed Malaysia’s unwavering stance on the Gaza conflict, vowing not to bow to foreign pressure even as the country faces increasing trade tariffs from the United States.

Speaking during the Prime Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat, Anwar stressed that Malaysia’s position on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and broader Middle East injustices would not be compromised, regardless of potential economic consequences.

“As a free and independent nation, Malaysia will continue to raise its voice against atrocities and oppression in the Middle East,” Anwar said. “We will not yield to any form of intimidation or objections, even if it means facing higher tariffs from foreign powers.”

The remarks came in response to a question by Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman (Muda–Muar), who asked whether Malaysia’s firm pro-Palestinian stance had influenced the United States’ recent decision to hike reciprocal tariffs on Malaysian goods.

Anwar confirmed that while the government continues to engage in negotiations with U.S. counterparts, the issue remains unresolved. “We have conveyed our dissatisfaction regarding the tariffs in meetings with U.S. diplomats, including with Secretary of State Marco Rubio,” he said.

He criticized the U.S. action as “unfair and unilateral,” noting that it goes against World Trade Organization (WTO) principles and existing international agreements. Malaysia was hit with a 24% reciprocal tariff in April, which was raised to 25% recently despite ongoing diplomatic talks.

Addressing a separate query from Datuk Seri Doris Sophia Brodi (GPS–Sri Aman), Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to delivering humanitarian assistance to Gaza. He said Malaysia still has the financial resources and logistical capacity to continue sending aid, but efforts remain obstructed at the Rafah border by Israeli authorities.

“I have personally appealed to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for assistance, but the blockade at Rafah persists,” Anwar said, adding that Malaysia is also coordinating with Qatar and Jordan.

“Jordan has agreed to help channel food and medical supplies into Gaza, but unfortunately, these efforts have also faced obstruction,” he added.

Malaysia has been vocal in advocating for Palestinian rights and remains a staunch critic of Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The government has continued to engage in diplomatic efforts and humanitarian missions, despite mounting geopolitical and economic pressures.