Malaysia protests Norway's NSM export license cancellation, citing deep impact on relations

Malaysia has formally conveyed its strong objection to Norway following the cancellation of an export license for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM), a move that has critically affected the nation's defense acquisition plans. The stern message was delivered directly by Malaysia's Defense Minister, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, to his Norwegian counterpart, Tore O. Sandvik, during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.

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Although the Norwegian Defense Minister has apologized and explained the reasons behind the decision, Malaysia insists that the way this issue was handled does not reflect the spirit of friendship between two countries with close and long-standing ties.

Mohamed Khaled expressed Malaysia's deep disappointment and regret over Norway's decision, emphasizing that it has cast a shadow over the long-standing good relations between the two countries. "Although the Norwegian Defense Minister has apologized and explained the reasons behind the decision, Malaysia insists that the way this issue was handled does not reflect the spirit of friendship between two countries with close and long-standing ties," he stated.

The contract for the NSM was initially signed in 2018, with deliveries scheduled for 2026. Malaysia was only informed of the cancellation at the last minute. The Malaysian minister further highlighted the lack of adequate efforts to help Malaysia recover payments already made. "If Norway truly values the existing friendship, there should be an initiative to resolve the issue of reimbursement, given that the cancellation of the export license stems from the Norwegian government's own decision," he added.

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If Norway truly values the existing friendship, there should be an initiative to resolve the issue of reimbursement, given that the cancellation of the export license stems from the Norwegian government's own decision.

While the Norwegian Defense Minister indicated the matter would be brought to the attention of the Norwegian government for further consideration, Malaysia views this episode as a significant lesson. "This episode serves as an important lesson in assessing the reliability of strategic partners in the future," Mohamed Khaled concluded, noting that the situation has left a profound impact on the bilateral relationship.

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This episode serves as an important lesson in assessing the reliability of strategic partners in the future.