Geopolitics Quarterly

Geopolitics Quarterly

Free Trade as a Force of Political Stability: The Case of Malaysia

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Ain Shafikah Mohd Ripin 1
Prajhessh Magendran 1
Syazliyana Syek Daud 1
Nurul Aisyah binti Rosli 1
Muhamad Helmi MD SAID 2
Asaad Ghali Hamzah 3
1 Faculty of Law, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia.
2 Faculty of Law, FUU, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia.
3 Al-Mustaqbal University, Iraq.
10.22034/igq.2024.475209.1939
Abstract
Free trade can influence political stability by fostering economic growth, reducing poverty, and increasing employment opportunities, leading to a more content and stable society, while also potentially reducing tensions by creating interdependencies with other countries. While free trade offers many benefits, free trade also brings monopolization and corporate Power. It can be seen in favor of large multinational corporations that have the resources to dominate markets. The objective of the article is to examine how Malaysia's free trade agreements work with Pakistan, New Zealand, India, and Australia that have influenced political stability. While free trade is often touted as a mechanism for economic growth and political cooperation, its impact on political stability remains complex. So, this article will analyze whether these trade agreements have effectively contributed to Malaysia's political stability, considering both positive outcomes and potential risks. The methodology employs a mixed-method approach, including a qualitative, doctrinal and socio-legal approach. The results shows that Malaysia's free trade agreements with Pakistan, New Zealand, India, and Australia have impacted economic growth, more foreign investment, and stronger diplomatic relations, created a more stable political environment and making Malaysia more resilient to economic shocks. The article also suggests for strengthening the bilateral agreement between all countries for boosting economic market.
Keywords
Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
Political stability
Foreign investment
Economic Growth
International relations
Subjects
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Geopolitics Quarterly
Volume 20, Special Issue
Autumn 2024
Pages 61-86

  • Receive Date 02 September 2024
  • Revise Date 18 October 2024
  • Accept Date 02 December 2024