Rejecting Conflict Narrative: PM Anwar Stresses Dialogue for South China Sea Peace

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has firmly rejected the notion that conflict in the South China Sea is unavoidable. He advocates for dialogue, mutual trust, and strict adherence to international law as the most effective means to preserve regional peace and stability.

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I personally do not share this phobia about potential threats to the South China Sea. There are issues, but so far, Malaysia's position and experience, I must say, there are meaningful discussions with China.

Anwar highlighted that Malaysia maintains constructive relations with China, even amidst maritime disputes in the region. "I personally do not share this phobia about potential threats to the South China Sea. There are issues, but so far, Malaysia's position and experience, I must say, there are meaningful discussions with China," he stated. He noted that discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang have been positive, with no major issues causing tension.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister pointed out China's support for the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and ongoing negotiations for the ASEAN-China Code of Conduct. He believes these should guide efforts toward peaceful dispute resolution. Anwar urged ASEAN to remain committed to diplomacy, countering external narratives that overemphasize the prospect of war in the region. He credited ASEAN's decades-long peace to close relationships among leaders who communicate directly to resolve differences.

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There are issues, but so far, Malaysia's position and experience, I must say, there are meaningful discussions with China.

Separately, Anwar criticized the hypocrisy and double standards of some Western nations, which he says lead to unfair treatment of developing countries, now referred to as the Global South. He observed that some Western countries violate international law while imposing stricter compliance standards on others. As an example, he cited Malaysia's experience with a Norwegian supplier's cancellation of anti-ship missile deliveries despite near-complete payment. Anwar asserted that such unfair treatment undermines the credibility of the international system, which is supposedly based on the rule of law.

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I have spoken about that with President Xi Jinping, with Premier Li Qiang but the relationship is very good. There is no question or major issue that will cause tension.