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PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated Malaysia’s steadfast support for the Palestinian cause, while underscoring the importance of national stability and strong governance in enabling the country to advocate meaningfully on the global stage.
Speaking during an open dialogue at the ‘Meet Anwar@IIUM: A Special Homecoming’ event, which drew nearly 3,000 students and staff at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Anwar said Malaysia would continue to raise the issue of Gaza and Palestine in international forums, but without compromising the nation’s internal priorities.
“As an emerging country, we have done our utmost. However, it (the issue) remains unresolved,”Bernama cited him saying today.
“Make sure we can shout (demonstrate and support the Palestinians’ cause) as much as we can but we must put our house in order — stop the corruption, the abuse of power, make sure we govern well and protect the interests of our people. That is the answer. Not short term but long term.”
Anwar warned that domestic vulnerability could leave Malaysia open to exploitation and diminish its ability to contribute to global issues, including the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
“If you are weak, people will squander your wealth, then you are being abused and there is nothing you can do. We will continue to raise the issue of Gaza and protect our national interests because, without the economic interests and the wealth, we cannot help them. We can, of course, express (our support) very strongly.”
When asked whether Malaysia’s vocal stance on Palestine had strained relations with Western powers, Anwar was firm in stating that Malaysia remains a pragmatic trading nation. He noted that the United States continues to be Malaysia’s largest investor and a key export destination, followed by China and Germany.
“We have expressed our displeasure and differences on various issues but this is not new. Even during the Vietnam War, our student leaders protested against what we saw as injustices. Have they (Western powers) learned? Sadly, many have not,” he remarked.
Anwar also took aim at persistent neo-imperialist tendencies in global politics, criticising actions that undermine pluralism and human dignity.
“We oppose the atrocities that have caused so much harm and we will continue to engage,” he said.
On the topic of international trade, Anwar voiced concern over recent protectionist policies — notably those introduced under former US President Donald Trump — describing them as inconsistent with World Trade Organization (WTO) principles.
“The US had urged us to move quickly to accept certain trade terms. Now that we have accepted them, they say no, they discard the terms. We don’t operate like that… do we agree on everything? No. Do we protect our interests? Absolutely.”
He continued, “I want to protect this country, our workers, our families. Whatever decisions we make must serve both national and international interests and protect our people, our investors and key industries such as semiconductors,” noting that some 65 per cent of Malaysia’s exports are destined for the US.
Despite these challenges, Anwar pointed to continued investment confidence from major US companies, including Oracle and Microsoft, both of which have reaffirmed their commitment to Malaysia amid turbulence in neighbouring markets.
He stressed that political stability, together with coherent and transparent policy direction, remains crucial in preserving investor confidence.
Anwar also took the opportunity to reaffirm ASEAN’s central role in Malaysia’s foreign policy, particularly as the country takes up the chairmanship of the regional bloc this year.
“In the next few days, (Chinese) President Xi Jinping is coming. Of course, the US and China are currently at a trade war but I also happen to chair ASEAN this year and our policy is, of course, centrality,” he explained.
“We will continue to engage with the US as a traditional ally, friend and trade partner. But no one should stop us from building strong ties with China — a major economic force that respects our sovereignty. China has not caused us any issues. They recognise and respect our freedom and rights.”
Anwar concluded by calling for unity not only among Muslim nations and regional neighbours, but also from Western powers that now share Malaysia’s view on the plight of Palestinians. He urged a collective effort towards a ceasefire and an end to the ongoing violence in Gaza.
“Our support is unwavering, but real change demands international resolve,” he said. – April 11, 2025