Malaysia’s government and opposition unite in parliament to condemn US-Israel strikes on Iran, with PM Anwar warning of economic consequences for taking a stand.
KUALA LUMPUR: The government and opposition blocs in the Malaysian Parliament set aside political differences to stand in solidarity with Iran.
They strongly condemned the attack by Israel with US support, becoming among the earliest parliaments to express a firm stance.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim described the rare bipartisan consensus as clear proof that Malaysia would not compromise on the dignity, sovereignty and independence of any nation.
“It moves me that although we differ on many issues, there is no division when it comes to sovereignty and the common good,” he said.
Anwar was winding up the debate on a motion condemning the attacks carried out on Saturday.
The US and Israel launched a series of strikes on targets in Iran, including Tehran, with reports of civilian casualties.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed following the strikes, according to the Islamic Republic News Agency.
Addressing the issue of “forced regime change”, Anwar described attempts to target a head of state and civilian facilities as extreme violence.
He said such actions violated international law and were unacceptable to any civilised society.
The Prime Minister said that the government remained vigilant against any threat, including external interference aimed at destabilising the administration.
He stressed that Malaysia would not allow any foreign government or company to interfere in its affairs.
Anwar acknowledged that defending justice could lead to economic pressures from geopolitical developments.
“We are aware that when we speak the truth and defend justice, we may face consequences, including economic pressures arising from geopolitical developments and disruptions to oil supply and transport. But this is the voice of the Malaysian people, and come what may, we will face it together,” he said.
He also addressed concerns about an alleged plot to sabotage the government raised in parliament.
Anwar gave assurance that a thorough investigation would be carried out, noting that the figures and data linked to the allegations were “deeply concerning”.
He recalled that the country had faced a communist insurgency aided by foreign elements after independence.
“We must not allow such possibilities to recur and threaten our national security,” he added.