KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that Malaysia must be fiercely independent as a sovereign nation and should not be forced to choose sides in the escalation of rivalry between United States (US) and China.
Speaking at the Milken Institute Asia Summit 2023 in Singapore on Wednesday, Anwar wanted Malaysia to maintain close relationships with both the US and China, in accordance with the current ASEAN policy.
"This idea that you have to be either with China or the US. No, why should we suffer and be told what to do? I mean, we must be fiercely independent as independent nation," he said during the special session, titled 'A Conversation with Prime Minister of Malaysia,' that was live streamed online.
When asked whether other ASEAN nations might lose out to Vietnam as it becomes closer to the US due to its willingness to take a stand by siding with the US, Anwar said he was not particularly worried.
He noted that Malaysia's relations with the US government, investors, and companies remain strong.
"I don't foresee much problems. President Joe Biden chose to visit Vietnam, good for Vietnam after they endured so much suffering in the past. It's time for the US to give additional attention to Vietnam. I have no problems about that," he said.
According to media reports, the US and Vietnam recently agreed to elevate their relations to a 'comprehensive strategic partnership,' the Southeast Asian country's highest diplomatic level, on par with what it has with China, Russia, India and South Korea.
On the other hand, Anwar expressed his concern about the US-China rivalry, saying ASEAN have a role to play by engaging both China and the US, and appealing for them to reduce tensions as it's affecting countries in this region.
During the recent ASEAN Summit in Jakarta, he said the 10-member bloc asked both China and the US to reduce tensions in South China Sea.
"I mentioned in front of (Chinese) Premier Li Qiang about South China Sea, he responded very positively, ensuring to respect the rights of countries and to negotiate and continue with effective negotiations.
"And we also appealed to Vice President of the United States (Kamala Harris) to try and reduce these tensions because they're affecting us (ASEAN)," he said.
On the notion that President Biden and President Xi Jinping were not paying much attention to ASEAN by sending their second-in-commands because most member countries were not willing to choose sides, Anwar said the world needs ASEAN to remain neutral.
"ASEAN must keep the centrality as its thrust of foreign policy, to continue to have effective engagement with China and the United States," he said.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Wed Sep 13 2023
PM Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim wants M'sia to maintain close relationships with both the US and China, in accordance with current ASEAN policy. - BERNAMA
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.
Five important aspects relating to people’s lives in Budget 2025 - PM
The focus is on driving the MADANI Economy, speeding reforms, cutting red tape, raising wages, and tackling the cost of living.
Economic outlook: Govt plans to leverage, expand existing city transit system
The expansion aims to provide a more efficient and reliable public transportation network, reduce congestion, and improve accessibility.
Economic outlook: Budget 2025 to lay foundation for a digital-driven economy
The report said Budget 2025 will entail efforts to position Kuala Lumpur as a top 20 global startup hub by 2030 through the KL20 initiative.
Economic outlook: Corruption and lack of accountability hinder economic progress
Special Cabinet Committee on National governance is established to curb corruption, law reforms to modernise outdate regulations, MoF said.
National Wages Consultative Council will be strengthened
The govt will also incentivise hiring women returning from career breaks, offer job matching and improve care services facilities.
Economic outlook: Ensuring 11 years of compulsory education for all children
Budget 2025 will continue prioritising upskilling and retraining initiatives to equip workers with the latest skill sets necessary.
Consolidated public sector projected to record lower surplus of RM41.7 bil 2024
The MoF said the consolidated general government revenue is estimated to increase slightly to RM384.7 billion in 2024.
PM announces substantial Budget 2025 hastening Malaysia to become Asian economic powerhouse
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it would create jobs and also tackle financial leakages to enhance public spending efficiency.