Anwar: Foreign policy must prioritise national interest, not foreign pressure

New Straits Times

6 hours ago

ISKANDAR PUTERI: Malaysia has always prioritised national interest in its foreign policy and will not be dictated by external powers, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the two-day Nikkei Forum Medini Johor at Sunway BigBox today, Anwar said the country's approach to international engagement must be guided by its own needs and remain free from any interference.
"Our relationship with the United States must remain strong.
"But no one can dictate that we be too friendly to the US, China, or Japan.
"We are an open trading country, and our policies must reflect the best interests of our people," he said.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to a principled and multilateral trade approach, noting that while the US remains the country's largest export destination, Malaysia will not condone unilateral tariff actions.
"Malaysia will continue strengthening relations with Asean countries, China, Japan, Korea, and other regional allies," he said.
He noted that 60 per cent of Malaysia's exports currently go to the US, making it the country's top trading partner.
However, he stressed that the government draws a firm line when it comes to policy.
"We do not endorse or support any unilateral action. Despite our close ties, Malaysia does not condone the imposition of tariffs," he said.
Malaysia, he added, will continue to engage with China, South Korea, Japan, and other Asean allies to defend a rules-based multilateral trading order.
Anwar also said that the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) as a regional game changer that has drawn strong interest from investors in Japan, China, South Korea, and the European Union.
He described the zone as "a collaboration between two countries based on total trust".
"The zone is quickly becoming an international investment magnet due to its strategic infrastructure, political stability, and clarity of policy," he said.
Touching on global trends, Anwar criticised the rise of protectionism, saying many decisions today are driven by political and economic arrogance.
"Decisions today are often made based on greed and military might, not values, ethics, or justice," he said, urging governments to centre governance and trade on ethics and human values.
He also reaffirmed Malaysia's strong ties with China, pointing to back-to-back visits from President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang as evidence of strong bilateral confidence.
"Few countries can boast of that kind of access.
"China has been consistent in offering investment, technological transfer, and trade cooperation, much like Japan has done for decades," he said.
Citing Malaysia's industrial master plan, energy transition roadmap and digital ambitions, Anwar said what sets the country apart is its resolve to act with urgency and reform.
In a rare moment of reflection, he acknowledged past weaknesses in governance and pledged his administration's commitment to clean and effective leadership.
"I assure you, my Cabinet has the humility to accept criticism and make necessary adjustments. We are not living in a perfect world," he said.