Wong Chen Urges Royal Commission to Probe Malaysia-US Trade Agreement

Subang MP Wong Chen has called for the establishment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate Malaysia’s recently signed trade agreement with the United States, citing concerns over sovereignty and transparency.

Wong, who chairs the Parliamentary Special Select Committee on International Relations and International Trade, said several provisions in the agreement appeared to favour the US and could align Malaysia too closely with Washington’s national and economic interests. He noted the absence of key definitions, arbitration clauses, and clarity on severability within the agreement’s text.

Wong Chen

The lawmaker claimed the deal was signed without a full cost-benefit analysis or proper public consultation, and referenced Deputy Minister Liew Chin Tong’s earlier statement suggesting Malaysia had limited negotiating options.

Wong urged for expert review, a structured foreign policy advisory team, and stronger governance mechanisms for future trade negotiations to safeguard national interests and ensure transparency.

Business News