In an interview with Japan's Nikkei published on Saturday, Mahathir said the trade pact should take into consideration the level of development of various countries.

He added small, weaker economies must be given a chance to protect their products. Mahathir did not reject the significance of agreements such as the CPTPP and he did not say whether he would consider leaving the trade pact.

Mahathir said his government must review all agreements entered into by the previous administration, including infrastructure, trade and security pacts.