Prabowo and Anwar Discuss Impact of US Tariffs on ASEAN Countries

TheIndonesia.co - President Prabowo Subianto and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim met in Putrajaya, Malaysia’s administrative capital, on Sunday to discuss the consequences of new import tariffs imposed by the United States on ASEAN countries.

According to Antara News Agency, the meeting, held at Seri Perdana, Anwar’s official residence, was described by the Malaysian Prime Minister as taking place "under the atmosphere of blessed Eid al-Fitr."

Anwar referred to Prabowo as an "old friend" and noted that their conversation focused on significant regional matters.

"We discussed important regional issues, including the effects of the new tariffs imposed by the United States on ASEAN countries, as well as our collective actions in providing humanitarian aid for the people in Myanmar affected by the recent earthquake," Anwar shared on social media.

However, the two leaders did not disclose specific outcomes from their discussions regarding the US tariffs or other topics addressed during the meeting. Anwar emphasized his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties between Indonesia and Malaysia.

"Let the spirit of Eid al-Fitr strengthen the brotherhood and cooperation between Malaysia and Indonesia in the name of regional security and prosperity," he remarked.

During the visit, photos shared by the Malaysian Prime Minister's Office showed Prabowo, dressed in a brown batik shirt and kopiah headgear, being welcomed by Anwar at the front porch of Seri Perdana. The leaders were later seen engaged in conversation during a banquet. After the meeting, Anwar bid Prabowo farewell with an embrace as he departed.

Prabowo was accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya and Personal Secretary Rizky Irmansyah during the visit.

The meeting occurred shortly after US President Donald Trump announced a near-universal tariff on imports from foreign countries, including Indonesia and Malaysia, on April 2. The 10-percent basic tariff took effect on April 5, and reciprocal tariffs for Indonesia and other nations will apply starting April 9. Indonesia will face a 32 percent tariff, while Malaysia is subject to 24 percent. Other ASEAN members, such as Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand, will experience higher rates, ranging from 36 to 49 percent.