Govt publishes U.S. Trade Agreement while signalling action on Meta and social visit pass misuse

7 Nov 2025 • 5:46 PM MYT
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Trade Agreement Now Publicly Accessible

THE Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART) between Malaysia and the United States is now fully available on the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) website.

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the documents were uploaded earlier this week along with a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section to provide the public with verified information.

“Therefore, this is no longer an issue as the document is fully accessible on the MITI website. It has been available since early this week together with frequently asked questions,” he said at the post cabinet press conference today.

Fahmi, who is also the government spokesperson, added that the matter was discussed during today’s Cabinet meeting and included in the Ministerial Council Memorandum (MJM) for full review. “There was indeed an MJM submitted, and the issues were examined so that there would be no disputes or claims as raised by a Member of Parliament during the ministerial question session last Tuesday,” he explained.

Meta Must Clarify Alleged Illicit Revenue

The government is taking seriously international reports alleging that Meta generates revenue from fraudulent or scam advertisements.

Fahmi said if the reports are accurate, the information will be used as a basis to summon the company for a full explanation.

“I am disappointed this report surfaced yesterday because MCMC and several parties had just concluded a session with Meta in Singapore. However, this alarming report will be scrutinised and form the basis for calling Meta to provide full clarification,” he said.

Fahmi noted that he had previously disclosed publicly, including in Parliament, that Meta’s estimated revenue in Malaysia for 2023 was around RM2.5 billion.

“So far, we have not seen any convincing statements from Meta, merely denials that the figures are not in proper context, which is insufficient,” he added.

He stressed that once the Online Safety Act (ONSA) is enforced, platforms such as Meta will be legally accountable to prevent online harm, including scams and gambling.

According to international reports citing internal Meta documents, approximately 10 per cent of the company’s annual revenue comes from scam ads, fraudulent products, and prohibited items.

Strict Measures Against Social Visit Pass Misuse

The government has issued a stern warning to foreign visitors misusing the Social Visit Pass (PLS) to work or conduct business in Malaysia.

“The Cabinet has considered and decided to issue a warning to visitors using PLS, following information on misuse of the pass. Strict enforcement action will be taken against any party that violates the law concerning its use,” Fahmi said at the weekly press briefing.

He emphasised that PLS holders are strictly prohibited from engaging in any employment or business activities in any sector within the country. - November 7, 2025