DistantNews
Support us
🇶🇦 Qatar /Economy & Trade

Malaysia’s Anwar puts non-aligned stance in focus with remarks on Taiwan

From Al Jazeera · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's recent comments on Taiwan have sparked questions about the nation's non-aligned foreign policy.
  • Anwar stated Taiwan is "part of China, period," drawing praise from Beijing and condemnation from Taipei, which warned of impacts on Taiwanese investment.
  • The remarks come amid China's growing economic influence in Malaysia, its largest trade partner, and follow Anwar's call to bolster defenses in Sabah.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's recent statements regarding Taiwan have ignited debate about the country's long-standing policy of non-alignment, particularly its stance between China and the United States.

I see Taiwan as part of China, period.

— Anwar IbrahimStating his view on Taiwan's status in an interview with Al Jazeera.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Anwar declared, "I see Taiwan as part of China, period," adding that this view was "accepted by all." He further controversially stated that if a Malaysian state attempted secession, he would use force to "protect the sanctity and unity of" Malaysia, drawing a parallel to potential actions regarding Taiwan. These comments were lauded by the Chinese government, with a Foreign Ministry spokesman reiterating that Taiwan is an "inalienable part of China's territory."

This was accepted by all.

— Anwar IbrahimAdding to his statement about Taiwan's status.

Taiwan's government strongly condemned Anwar's remarks, warning that his "one-sided support for China could negatively impact Taiwanese businesses' confidence in investing in Malaysia." Taiwan is a significant investor in Malaysia, especially within the crucial semiconductor industry. Later, when questioned by local media, Anwar appeared to moderate his stance, emphasizing Malaysia's respect for China's position while advocating for a peaceful resolution to cross-strait tensions.

Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory.

— Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesmanEchoing Anwar Ibrahim's sentiment regarding Taiwan.

Anwar's comments follow closely after his call to strengthen Malaysia's defenses in the Sabah region, citing the development of U.S.-backed military facilities in the neighboring Philippines as a partial justification for increased defense spending. These developments have fueled suspicions among Western observers that Malaysia might be shifting away from its traditional non-aligned stance and leaning towards China, especially given Beijing's significant economic presence as Malaysia's largest trade partner.

Anwar’s one-sided support for China could negatively impact Taiwanese businesses’ confidence in investing in Malaysia.

— Taiwan's governmentWarning about the potential economic consequences of Anwar's remarks.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Al Jazeera. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog