KUALA LUMPUR: The recent United States sanctions on six Malaysian companies are unlikely to significantly impact the country's economy, said an expert.
Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs senior fellow Dr Carmelo Ferlito said the sanctions, issued on Oct 30, targeted specific companies.
"Therefore, I do not see big repercussions on the Malaysian economy as a whole.
"I think it would be appropriate for the government to try to engage with these firms and see what kind of compromise can be found," he said when contacted.
The six Malaysian companies were sanctioned by the US for their involvement, or prior involvement, in the Russian manufacturing sector.
The companies are Zeolite Mansford Sdn Bhd, Centrina United Sdn Bhd, Gyntec Carbon Sdn Bhd, Moralability Industry Sdn Bhd and Melix Global Sdn Bhd.
They were among about 400 entities and individuals accused of "enabling Russia's prosecution of its illegal war", according to a statement from the US State Department.
"The US will continue to use all tools at its disposal to disrupt support for Russia's military-industrial base and curtail the Kremlin's ability to exploit the international financial system and generate revenue in furtherance of its war against Ukraine," it said in the statement.
"We continue to stand in solidarity with Ukraine in defending its homeland from Russia's aggression."