ABSTRACT
Since gaining independence in 1957 from Britain and establishing formal ties with the United States (US), Malaysia has sought to maintain and strengthen bilateral ties with the world's leading superpower. When Malaysia first joined the Trans-Pacific Partnership talks, American and Malaysian negotiators were optimistic that they could successfully come to an agreement. Foreign policy decision-making in Malaysia has been in the hands of the leadership of the United Malays National Organisation, the dominant political party in the coalition governments that have held power since independence. Malaysia–US relations are carried out in the context not only of domestic factors, but also of national priorities related to regional institutions, notably Association of Southeast Asian Nations and East Asia Summit, as well as major regional powers, particularly China. China's emergence on the world stage as a major player presents new opportunities and challenges to both Malaysia and the US.
