KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia is adopting a cautious approach before endorsing the proposed Peace Committee for Gaza, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressing that any support will hinge on a halt to Israeli attacks and the guarantee of unrestricted humanitarian aid access.
While Malaysia is committed to peace efforts, Anwar expressed concerns about the composition and mandate of the committee. He specifically highlighted the potential involvement of Israeli Prime Minister and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, both of whom are seen as lacking neutrality due to their associations with the Iraq war, and as potentially undermining the committee's credibility on Palestinian and Gaza issues, Bernama reported.
"In principle, we support initiatives for peace, but we have reservations about the committee's formation and its members. Many of the announcements have yet to be confirmed," Anwar said during a Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Anwar was responding to a question from Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman (MUDA-Muar), who sought clarification on Malaysia's stance regarding US President Donald Trump’s proposal to establish the committee.
The Prime Minister stressed that the proposal could not be considered a viable solution as long as Israeli attacks on Gaza continue.
“While agreements may have been signed, attacks by the Zionist Israeli regime persist. The first step must be to stop the violence, and the second is to ensure access to food and basic necessities,” Anwar said. He also noted that reconstruction efforts, including housing initiatives proposed by Turkiye, have been hindered by Israel.
As a result, Malaysia will carefully consider its position before offering any support, with the matter set to be discussed further at a Cabinet meeting on Friday. Anwar confirmed that the Foreign Minister has been tasked with obtaining the full list of proposed committee members.
Additionally, Malaysia is consulting with leaders from Arab states, Turkiye, and other nations to gather their perspectives on the proposal.
In a separate matter, Prime Minister Anwar also discussed Malaysia’s firm stance on international issues, including Venezuela. He stressed that Malaysia has been one of the most vocal nations in supporting international law and opposing attempts to occupy Greenland.
On Venezuela, Anwar reiterated that Malaysia’s position remains resolute in supporting the principle of sovereignty and opposing any foreign intervention that contradicts international law.
"While Malaysia is a medium-sized nation, we have always been clear and firm on issues like Venezuela. We take into account consultations with our friends, neighbouring countries, and allies before making decisions," Anwar explained during the Minister's Question Time.
He further criticised the US for its actions regarding Venezuela, stating that Malaysia does not agree with US policies that breach international law and has called for the return of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife to their home country.
On the issue of Greenland, Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s rejection of any attempts at territorial conquest, echoing the positions held by Europe and Denmark, which stress the need for negotiations in resolving any disputes.
As for Malaysia's diplomatic relations with Iran, Anwar emphasised that Malaysia continues to maintain ties with Tehran but stressed the importance of balancing international relations while safeguarding national interests. - January 20, 2026
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