Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has voiced concern over what he perceives as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s growing bias towards China in Malaysia’s foreign policy, warning it could compromise the country's longstanding neutral stance.
In a recent interview with South China Morning Post, Dr Mahathir questioned Anwar’s understanding of Malaysia’s non-aligned diplomatic approach. He accused the current administration of prioritising economic benefits over principled diplomacy by appearing overly friendly with China, while simultaneously being cautious not to provoke the United States.
He was of the view that Malaysia must remain neutral and should engage with all nations equally, without favouring either America or China. “This government, however, seems to lean towards China while at the same time it is afraid to displease America.”
Dr Mahathir's comments follow Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Malaysia — his first in 12 years — where Anwar emphasised the strength of bilateral ties. Describing China as a trusted neighbour and key strategic partner, Anwar underscored Malaysia’s commitment to deepening cooperation under the comprehensive strategic partnership.
Despite this, Mahathir warned that Anwar’s warm overtures toward Beijing could erode the diplomatic balance Malaysia has sought to maintain since 1974, when then-Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak established diplomatic ties with China as part of a carefully crafted non-aligned foreign policy.
Dr Mahathir also took issue with what he sees as Anwar’s inconsistent position on international injustices, particularly relating to the Palestine-Israel conflict. He claimed that Anwar has toned down criticism of the United States following former President Donald Trump's political resurgence, suggesting that fear of US reprisal might be influencing Malaysia’s stance.
“We are all afraid of America. But we have to take a stand on injustice,” he asserted.
In October 2023, Anwar disclosed that the US had exerted diplomatic pressure on Malaysia regarding its position on the Gaza conflict. The US Department of State issued a démarche — a formal diplomatic communication — while its Deputy Chief of Mission in Kuala Lumpur met with Malaysian foreign ministry officials to express Washington’s concerns.
While the US State Department describes a démarche as a routine diplomatic gesture, Dr Mahathir views it as part of a broader pattern of influence that threatens Malaysia’s sovereignty and moral standing.
He concluded that maintaining balanced, principled diplomacy is crucial to protecting Malaysia’s international reputation and independence.
Information Source: Malay Mail
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