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Dr Mahathir weighs Lima halt option; KJ urges clearer business policies

Former Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad has reflected on a proposal to suspend the Lima agreement, while Business Minister KJ calls for greater policy clarity to support Malaysia's business community.

LSN Malaysia · 4 September 2026

Dr Mahathir weighs Lima halt option; KJ urges clearer business policies

Dr Mahathir has revisited discussions around halting the Lima agreement, signalling consideration of the controversial option as part of broader policy deliberations. The proposal has drawn attention amid ongoing debates about Malaysia's regional trade commitments and their impact on domestic industries.

Meanwhile, Minister Khairy Jamaluddin has pressed for enhanced policy clarity from the government, arguing that businesses require more transparent and consistent regulatory frameworks to operate effectively. KJ's remarks underscore growing concerns from the private sector about policy uncertainty affecting investment and operational decisions.

The dual developments reflect ongoing tensions between protecting domestic interests and maintaining international trade relationships, while simultaneously highlighting business community frustrations with policy implementation. KJ's call for clarity suggests the government faces pressure to balance multiple stakeholder interests as it navigates economic policy decisions.

These positions come as Malaysia continues to assess its trade agreements and business environment in light of regional economic challenges and domestic growth priorities.