Malaysia and the United States (US) are close to sealing a trade deal, with the signing expected to be confirmed on Sunday at the 47th Asean Summit, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
“We are in the final stage of negotiations. I can confirm on Sunday,” he said at a press conference after the 26th Asean Economic Community Council meeting here today (24 Oct 2025).
Tengku Zafrul said tariff negotiations were being conducted bilaterally between the US and individual Asean countries, including Malaysia.
“For other countries, the negotiations have been ongoing. We will see whether there are any agreements that will be concluded and signed during Donald Trump’s visit to Malaysia,” he said.
US President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend the Asean Summit on Sunday.
Malaysia was earlier hit with a 19 per cent tariff on exports to the US. Washington has also announced plans to impose a 50 per cent tariff on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities and related products, as well as a 30 per cent tariff on upholstered furniture.
AMCHAM’s Member Feature Series spotlights the various member companies of the Chamber and offers a platform for leaders to share their perspectives on being part of AMCHAM’s leadership network.
In this edition, we’re proud to feature a Gold Tiered Member, Amarjit Singh Sandhu, Corporate Vice President, Assembly & Test NAND Operations Malaysia Country Manager, Micron Technology. See his responses below.
1. What motivated Micron to join AMCHAM as a Tiered Corporate Member?
Micron Malaysia joined AMCHAM as a Gold Tiered Corporate Member of AMCHAM out of our commitment to deepen engagement with Malaysia’s business and policy ecosystem. As a global technology leader with a strong local presence, we recognized AMCHAM’s platform as a strategic avenue to collaborate with like-minded industry leaders, influence policy dialogue, and amplify our voice on issues that matter to the semiconductor industry, electrical & electronics ecosystem and investors as a whole.
2. In your experience, how has being a Tiered Member added value compared to regular membership?
Being a Gold Tiered Member, we could contribute meaningfully to shaping Malaysia’s ecosystem climate, sustainability and talent development agendas – all these through AMCHAM and its sub-committees such as Malaysian American Electronic Industry (MAEI)
3. Would you recommend Tiered Corporate Membership to other companies? If so, why?
We recommend for companies that are serious about shaping the business environment, influencing policy, and building strategic partnerships to take part as a Tiered Corporate Member. At Micron, we’ve seen firsthand how this level of engagement supports our business goals, enhances our reputation, and deepens our impact in the communities we serve.
United Leads The Way in Los Angeles, ranking as the number one airline for on-time arrivals in 2024, offering 17 international destinations with long-haul routes to Hong Kong, Tokyo, Shanghai, Beijing, Sydney, Melbourne, and London, along with a global network of over 140 daily departures.
Semiconductor tariffs, trade, investments, security and stability in the region are topics expected to be discussed during United States (US) President Donald Trump’s visit here, says US Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan.
Giving semiconductors as an example, he said Malaysia is an incredibly important partner for the US, as there have been very significant investments by American companies in this sector, especially those focused on Western supply chains.
“I can tell you that there is a recognition of the important role Malaysia plays. So, tariffs are among the topics to be brought up during Trump’s visit,” he said.
Kagan was responding to questions from Bernama on the sidelines of the US-Malaysia Digital Dialogue here on Thursday (Oct 23).
Asked about the likelihood of the US maintaining the tariff exemption for Malaysia’s semiconductor exports, Kagan said while he was not in a position to comment on the matter, he believes Malaysia is an incredibly important semiconductor partner for the US.
“And I think that isn’t likely to change quickly, regardless of what happens on tariffs,” he said.
In 1994, Malaysia had acceded to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change 1992 and in 2016, Malaysia acceded to the Paris Agreement 2015 on climate change. In this context, Malaysia has implemented various initiatives and programs under the national climate action plan to ensure that the international climate change goals would be achieved. CCUS is one of the major initiatives in Malaysia under the overarching climate change endeavour, and the Malaysian Government has endeavoured to meet its international obligations, within the context of the energy transition scenario.
On 1 August 2025, the Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage Act 2025 (“CCUS Act”) came into force and this was followed by the Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (Offshore Permit and Licensing) Regulations 2025 (“CCUS Regulations”) on 1 October 2025.
On 17 Oct 2025, Plexus donated 30 computers to three schools in Batu Kawan – SJKC Kampung Valdor, SJKC True Light, and SK Taman Inderawasih – to enhance students’ access to digital learning and boost their technology skills.
The computer donation ceremony was held at SJKC Kampung Valdor, and was graced by the Chief Minister of Penang, YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow.
In his remarks, Victor Tan, APAC Regional President of Plexus, expressed hope that the donated computers would help students gain better access to digital learning resources and develop essential technology skills for the future. Tan also shared that Plexus’ sixth manufacturing plant in Batu Kawan would create 1,800 new job opportunities.
“Plexus remains deeply committed to supporting and promoting STEM education. In 2025 alone, more than 8,000 participants have taken part in 32 Plexus-supported STEM programs.”
“With sustainability at the core of our business strategy, Plexus Malaysia sites are now powered by 100% renewable energy. This year, Plexus has contributed over RM450,000 towards initiatives including environmental, health and safety programs, STEM education, and donations to non-profit organizations and educational institutions,” Victor noted.
Plexus extends its appreciation to the State Government of Penang and community partners for their continued collaboration and support in driving positive community impact.
