MP13 offers direction but economic preparedness remains Malaysia’s greatest test

THE recent announcement by the United States to impose 19% reciprocal tariffs on Malaysian exports, down from 25%, may offer brief relief but it underscores a deeper truth: Malaysia remains vulnerable to global shocks due to unresolved structural weaknesses at home.

Even at 19%, these tariffs represent a substantial cost escalation for key export-oriented sectors, particularly in manufacturing and E&E, which could trigger supply chain disruptions, reduced orders and delayed investments. This is not a diplomatic win to be celebrated but a wake-up call for Malaysia to fortify its domestic fundamentals and economic resilience.