Don’t jump to conclusions over TPPA, says Obama
United States President Barack Obama today urged the people not to jump to their own conclusions about the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA), which is still being negotiated among 12 countries.
He said while the agreement had some shortcomings, it would benefit Malaysia in its efforts towards achieving high-income nation status by 2020.
"We should wait and see the agreement. I too get the same objections in the US as here," he said at a joint press conference with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak following talks between both leaders in Putrajaya today.
Obama is on a three-day visit to Malaysia, the first by an American president in nearly 50 years.
"Don't be surprised if there are protests and conspiracy theories against the TPPA," he said.
Obama said the agreement would bring about benefits such as bigger job opportunities.
Responding to Obama's remarks, Najib said Malaysia was not forced or bullied to become a signatory of the TPPA.
"We are not being bullied over the TPPA. We join on our own free will. We understand the benefits of free trade.
"Although there are some shortcomings, there are also many benefits," he said, adding that Malaysia supports the concept of free trade.
The last visit by a US president to Malaysia was 48 years ago by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966.
Yesterday, a group of “zombies” attracted the attention of passer-bys at a mall in Kuala Lumpur, in conjunction with Obama's visit to Malaysia.
The 50 “zombies” protesting against Malaysia's signing of the TPPA were sponsored by Bantah TPPA.
Bantah TPPA's deputy chairman Azwan Awang had said the group was concerned over Obama's visit which signifies Malaysia is ready to sign the TPPA, despite Putrajaya's denial.
“We are worried if the TPPA is signed because it will mean the public will be facing higher priced medicine.
“The TPPA also means that Malaysia is open to risks of being summoned,” he said.
The flashmob which lasted for an hour had a sketch featuring “Uncle Sam” refusing to give “medicine” to the “zombies”. – April 27, 2014.
