Malaysia Not Passive On Sovereignty Despite Neutral Diplomatic Stance - DPM Fadillah

KUALA LUMPUR, April 21 (Bernama) -- Malaysia will not remain passive on issues of international sovereignty despite its neutral diplomatic stance, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said.

He described the country’s diplomacy as pragmatic and independent, with Malaysia maintaining good relations with all parties while upholding principles of global justice.

“When we say we are neutral, it does not mean we are passive or unclear in our position. We have principles, and we engage pragmatically with all relevant parties,” he said when featured on Bernama Radio’s exclusive interview on how geopolitical crisis drives Malaysia’s energy transition, at Wisma Bernama here today.

Fadillah was met on arrival at the Malaysian National News Agency’s (Bernama) headquarters by its chairman, Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, and chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin.

Also present were editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, deputy editor-in-chief (News Services) Mohd Shukri Ishak and acting deputy editor-in-chief (Economic News Services) Harlina Samson.

Elaborating, Fadillah said Malaysia is also actively engaged in diplomatic efforts with leaders from countries such as Turkiye and Pakistan, while working with the United Nations (UN) and the United States to seek peaceful solutions.

Despite taking firm positions on sovereignty, Fadillah said Malaysia continues to balance its diplomatic ties, particularly in trade, to safeguard economic growth.

“Our trade relations with China, the US, Europe and the ASEAN region continue to grow,” he said, adding that Malaysia’s overarching diplomatic goal is to promote global stability to support sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity.

-- BERNAMA