The Malay Economic Action Council (MTEM) has questioned the government's secrecy in negotiations surrounding the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA).

                       

NONE Its president Mohd Nizam Mahshar told a press conference today that - even after a meeting with the International Trade and Industries Ministry last Friday - it is apparent that the ministry has not conducted research and that there has been insufficient public consultation on the TPPA.

"Why the secrecy? If this is your business, then you can negotiate secretly. But this is about the fate of the country," Mohd Nizam said.

He branded the TPPA negotiations, which are scheduled to conclude in October, to be "lopsided" and that the outcome will only benefit superpowers - such as the US - and major international companies.

"If the TPPA is really good for the country, there would be nothing to hide," said Mohd Nizam, who had earlier urged Malaysia to withdraw from the negotiations and warned of the far-reaching economic implications should the government sign the agreement.

"There were never any meaningful consultation with related organisations and with the public regarding this matter.”

azlan Noting that the negotiations are now into their18th round, he said it is imperative for the government to start consulting the public as soon as possible.

"There are more cons than pros as far as the TPPA is concerned, especially when it comes to its impact on small industries. This issue must be debated and a fresh mandate must be sought from Parliament," he said.

Mohd Nizam said MTEM had submitted a list of demands to the ministry, and that he expects answers within two weeks.

Among others, the group is seeking an assurance that the ministry will not sign the agreement until an economic impact forecast report is presented to the public.

It also does not want laws to be amended to accommodate conditions in the TPPA, under a clause dubbed ‘regulatory coherence’.