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Anwar Ibrahim: There Can’t Be A Big Power Dictating Malaysia’s Future. PHOTO/Reuters
KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim said on Friday (31/3/2023), that Neighboring State would not allow the great powers to dictate his decisions and future direction.
“No one should dictate to us. As a free and independent nation, we will decide what is best for us,” Anwar said as quoted by Bernama.
This was announced by Anwar on the third day of his official visit to China. “And, we decide based on core values and principles, which ensure that we have good governance and policies that will benefit the country and the people,” continued Anwar.
“We must also maintain this position in ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) because ASEAN was established as a free and neutral zone,” he added.
Anwar was responding to questions about the rivalry between China and the United States during a public lecture at Beijing’s renowned Tsinghua University, following his presence at the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) in Hainan.
Established in 2001, BFA aims to promote common development through regional economic integration.
Regarding Malaysia’s relationship with China, Anwar reportedly said that Malaysia does not see China as a competitor or a threat, even if there are disagreements between the two countries.
“Since there is no direct threat from China, we are happy to be good neighbours, friends and benefit from their success,” said Anwar. He added that Malaysia wants to build very good relations with all countries, including China and the US.
