The stories shaping Malaysia, in focus.
Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has resigned, marking a significant leadership change as Southeast Asian nations navigate mounting US trade pressures, security concerns, and demographic shifts.
The Trump administration has imposed a 12.5% tariff on approximately one-third of Singapore's exports to the United States, citing forced-labour concerns. The move affects goods from 45 nations and reflects a new legal strategy following a court challenge.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says Malaysia will continue diplomatic negotiations with the United States regarding a 10 per cent tariff recently imposed on the country's exports.
The Philippines is negotiating with the United States to reduce a 12.5% tariff imposed over forced labour import concerns, aiming for a 10% rate instead, according to Philippine Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez.
Brazil has rejected a 12.5 per cent US tariff imposed following a forced labour investigation, dismissing it as protectionist. The country will pursue the matter through WTO dispute settlement and invoke its reciprocity law.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says Malaysia will continue negotiations with the United States over tariffs linked to forced labour enforcement, though he noted the 10% rate imposed is relatively low compared with other nations.
The United States has announced final tariffs ranging from 10% to 12.5% against South Korea, Japan, and dozens of other trading partners over alleged forced labour practices. The move follows investigations into 60 economies and replaces temporarily expired global tariffs.
South Korea's Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan travels to Washington this week to negotiate with US officials on trade and investment, amid concerns over potential Section 301 tariffs tied to forced labour investigations.