Donald Trump at ASEAN: US and Malaysia sign major trade agreement; more deals from Indo-Pacific partners in process

US President Donald Trump signed a trade agreement with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and took part in the signing of a historic peace deal between Cambodia and Thailand, called the “Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords”.

Trump arrived in the country to attend the ongoing ASEAN Summit.




"Today, the Prime Minister and I signed a major trade deal between the United States and Malaysia."

Speaking at the ceremony, described his visit as “a mission of friendship and goodwill” aimed at deepening commerce, strengthening security, and promoting “stability, prosperity and peace” across the region.

He added, “That’s why I’m delighted that in addition to the agreement with Malaysia this week, we’re also signing or nearing completion on trade deals with many other Indo Pacific partners. From Cambodia to Japan to South Korea, we’re delighted to forge richer partnerships on energy, technology, artificial intelligence, critical minerals and other industries.”

The US President further hailed America’s economic performance, saying, “The United States is having its golden age. Last year we were a country that was doing very poorly under a different semi leadership. I don’t even call it a leadership. But this year we’re doing numbers that nobody ever thought it was possible for any country to do. We’ll be at the end of my first year, over $20 trillion worth of investment into the United States. There’s no country anywhere that’s ever done anything close to that. The United States last year, for the four years it was announced, did less than $1 trillion. And we’re going to be doing over 20. That’s quite a difference.”

He emphasised America’s commitment to Southeast Asia, stating, “The United States is for you. It’s committed to a free and open and thriving Indo Pacific. My message to the nations of Southeast Asia is that the United States is with you 100%. And we intend to be a strong partner and friend for many generations to come.”

Trump’s visit marks his first ASEAN summit since 2017 and his first trip to Asia in his second term. Large crowds gathered at the airport to welcome him, as he was received by Prime Minister Anwar and other Malaysian officials. Analysts say the visit aims to reaffirm US engagement in the Indo-Pacific and showcase Trump’s role as a global negotiator amid ongoing trade tensions.

The US President explained the Malaysia stop was also a gesture of thanks to Anwar for his country’s role in resolving the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia.

Ahead of his broader tour, Trump allso expressed optimism about a potential meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, describing a “really good chance” of reaching a comprehensive deal focused on technology and trade, particularly rare earth exports. The final leg of his Asian trip will see him meet Xi in South Korea to work on ending the ongoing US-China trade war.

Trump also hinted at the possibility of engaging with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying he is “open to it,” and expects to meet Brazilian President Lula da Silva to improve relations following months of tension.