'Tough negotiations on TPPA' - Najib

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Tun Razak admitted that there have been “tough negotiations” on Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA) in order for the countries to reach reasonable terms and for Malaysia not to forego national interests.

“We want the TPPA but on our terms and this is still a work-in-progress,” said Najib.

The Prime Minister made the comment during an interview on “The CNBC Conversation” with Martin Soong. It was aired on Astro AWANI last night. Below are snippets from the interview courtesy of CNBC:

Najib was also asked to comment on the the recent unveiling of policies to increase bumiputeras' participation in economy.

“In equitable growth, I believe in being fair and inclusive. Around 67% of the population are Bumiputeras and that is a vast majority. If the vast majority are marginalised or they feel they’re not getting a fair share of the country’s wealth then that might affect our long-term stability.”

Still on the topic of Malaysia’s economy, Najib commented on Malaysia’s default risk.

“We are on solid ground, the chances of default is very minimum. We must spend prudently, keep our debt in check but I am a strong believer of pro-growth policies. You need an economy that’s growing,” he said.

On the brain drain issue, the Prime Minister said there is a need to push up the opportunities and income level.

He also touched on Malaysia and China relations and how it would affect Malaysia-US relations.

“We do not need to choose between United States and China. Relations with Malaysia is important to both China and United States and it will continue to develop in ways that would be mutually beneficial,” he said.

Acting as an interlocutor in Southern Philippines and Southern Thailand, Najib also commented on Malaysia and its moderate movements.

“We should reject extremism and policies that are divisive. Try to stick to the middle ground so that we become inclusive in policies and decision-making,”

On the local political scene, Najib shared his view on the Umno party election.

“The party are solidly behind me and they believe I should continue leading UMNO and leading the country.”