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PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has affirmed Malaysia’s support for Iran’s right to respond to Israeli aggression, describing Tel Aviv’s actions as “barbaric and insane” and accusing the international community of double standards in its treatment of the conflict.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Madani Rakyat 2025 programme at Lumut Waterfront on Sunday, Anwar criticised what he described as silence from global powers when Israel targeted Iranian military officials and scientists.
“A few days ago, Iran was attacked by Israel, targeting and assassinating scientists and military officers… what kind of country acts so barbarically and treacherously as Israel?” said Anwar.
“There are over a billion Muslims and many wealthy Muslim nations… yet few are willing to speak up or defend Iran.”
He reiterated Malaysia’s firm stance as a sovereign nation committed to defending oppressed nations, regardless of global geopolitical pressure.
“I told my Cabinet colleagues that Malaysia is an independent and sovereign nation, and we must defend the rights of our friends, including Iran, which has been wronged,” he said.
Anwar lambasted the international community for condemning Iran’s retaliatory actions while ignoring the Israeli provocation.
“When Israel attacks, you say nothing. But when Iran responds to defend its dignity, you attack them. I do not subscribe to such a view,” he added.
While acknowledging that Malaysia and Iran differ in policy and approach, Anwar praised Iran’s resilience under long-standing economic sanctions, particularly in the development of defence and technological capacities.
“Iran has endured years of sanctions, yet it has educated its people and built its own defence systems, including artificial intelligence and anti-ballistic missiles,” he said. “They don’t have access to tech giants like Infineon, Nvidia, Google, Microsoft, or AMD — and yet they managed to develop missiles that can reach Tel Aviv.”
Separately, Anwar announced several key allocations to upgrade infrastructure and facilities at the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) base in Lumut, underlining the government’s commitment to military personnel welfare.
These include RM65 million for a new specialist clinic complex and upgrades to the Armed Forces Hospital, RM100 million for high-voltage power supply upgrades (33kV), RM23.3 million for the replacement of the Bulk Fuel Installation operation tank, and RM66.5 million for the upgrading of the Lumut Base jetty.
“I have asked the State Secretary present here to expedite implementation. The funds have been approved and are part of our broader efforts to enhance the wellbeing of TLDM personnel,” Anwar said. - June 15, 2025