Under heavy pressure, he became angry: “We have no problem with China”!

Summary

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized Malaysia's independence and neutrality in international relations, affirming a strong friendship with China while also maintaining ties with Western countries, and rejecting the notion of taking orders from any major power.

Abstract

During the 2024 ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Melbourne, Australia, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that Malaysia is a completely independent nation that does not wish to be dictated to by any large country. He underscored Malaysia's balanced approach to foreign policy, maintaining important friendships with the United States, Europe, Australia, and China. Anwar specifically addressed the issue of "Sinophobia" in the West, stating that Malaysia's emphasis on its relationship with China should not be criticized, as China is Malaysia's largest trading partner. His comments were made in response to concerns that Western countries should not impose their problems with China onto Malaysia, as Malaysia has no issues with China itself.

Opinions

Anwar Ibrahim believes Malaysia should not have to choose sides between China and Western nations, advocating for an independent foreign policy.
He criticizes the West's "Sinophobia" and the criticism Malaysia faces for its close relationship with China, which he sees as unwarranted.
Anwar asserts that Malaysia's relationship with China is based on mutual benefit, particularly in trade, and should not be a source of contention for other nations.
He emphasizes that Malaysia's foreign policy is driven by its national interests and not by external pressures from larger powers.
The Prime Minister's statements suggest a desire for a balanced diplomatic approach that fosters cooperation with a diverse array of international partners.

Under heavy pressure, he became angry: “We have no problem with China”!

According to a report on the Deutsche Welle radio website on March 4, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar said at the 2024 ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Melbourne, Australia: “We are an independent country, completely independent, and we do not want to take orders from any big country.”

“So, on the one hand, we remain an important friend of the United States, Europe and Australia, but at the same time, they should not prevent us from being friendly with one of our most important neighbours, China,” he said.

“If they have a problem with China, that shouldn’t be applied to us. We have no problem with China.”

Anwar made this statement at a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Asked about his denunciation of “Sinophobia” in the West in an interview with the Financial Times last month, Anwar said he was responding to criticism of Malaysia’s “extra emphasis on China.”

China is Malaysia’s largest trading partner.