COMMENT | In fortifying bilateral economic relations, Malaysia and the US reached an agreement to provide both countries’ exporters unprecedented access to each other’s markets.

Several analysts believe Malaysia is walking a tightrope in its international relations, balancing the East and the West, navigating between the US and China with a mix of strategic ambiguity and economic diplomacy.

As a highly open economy, Malaysia must maintain a neutral foreign policy to navigate the rivalry between the two superpowers, though this balancing act has become increasingly complex.

While maintaining cordial relationships with both the US and China, it is equally vital that Malaysia...