Malaysia PM Slams Western Double Standards on International Law

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has strongly criticized what he calls the "double standards" and "hypocrisy" of some Western nations regarding international law. He highlighted a recent incident where a Norwegian supplier canceled the delivery of anti-ship missiles (NSM) despite Malaysia having almost completed payment.

Anwar stated that this situation exemplifies the unfair treatment faced by countries in the Global South. He asserted that this is not merely a perception but a growing practice that erodes the credibility of the international system, which is purportedly based on the rule of law. The Prime Minister questioned the acceptance of certain nations disregarding international laws and norms while imposing stricter compliance standards on others.

"Is it acceptable when some countries ignore international laws and norms, while other countries are subjected to much stricter compliance standards?" Anwar asked during his keynote address at the 39th Asia-Pacific Roundtable in Kuala Lumpur. He emphasized that Malaysia has pursued the matter with the supplier and the Norwegian government through diplomatic and legal channels.

He cautioned that if Western partners continue to treat Global South nations in this manner, adhering to a "one rule for us, another for you" principle, it bodes ill for the future of equitable partnerships. Citing an old Dutch proverb, Anwar noted, "Trust comes slowly, but goes quickly," underscoring the potential damage to strategic relationships. The Malaysian Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Foreign Affairs had previously sent official notices to Norway regarding the cancellation of the NSM procurement from Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace AS.