China has been a fierce critic of sweeping U.S. tariffs that Trump announced on April 2. He later delayed the implementation of most but China, which has said it will respond with its own tariffs on U.S. imports, now faces a deadline next month to negotiate a deal.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has warned that global trade is being weaponized as U.S. tariffs loom over Southeast Asia

Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Wednesday urged Southeast Asian countries to "act with purpose" and enhance trade among each other in the face of global uncertainty, as regional foreign ministers met amid renewed jitters over U.

Rubio reiterates to Anwar that Malaysia remains an important US partner and Washington is keen to boost cooperation with Asean.

Bank Negara lowers key rate to 2.75% from 3% on weaker growth outlook. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.