Malaysia's PM resists US pressure and says Malaysians don't have a problem with China

Malaysia's Premier Anwar Ibrahim defended his country's relationship with China on Monday, expressing dissatisfaction with perceived pressure from the United States and its allies for regional nations to pick sides in the ongoing strategic rivalries with Beijing. 

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, one of nine Asian leaders attending the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Melbourne, Australia, emphasized the positive aspects of China-Malaysia ties.
Highlighting China's significant role as an investor in Malaysia, Anwar stated, "Right now, China seems to be the leading investor into Malaysia," and emphasized that Malaysians "do not have a problem with China." Asserting Malaysia's independence, he declared, "We are an independent nation, we are fiercely independent, we do not want to be dictated by any force."
Addressing concerns over potential influence, Anwar emphasized the importance of maintaining friendly relations with all nations, including China, without interference from external pressures. During a joint news conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, a strong US ally, Anwar asserted, "So while we remain an important friend to the United States and Europe and here in Australia, they should not preclude us from being friendly to one of our important neighbors, precisely China."
Anwar dismissed the idea of Malaysia harboring any issues with China and emphasized that the concerns or problems other countries may have should not be imposed on Malaysia. He firmly stated, "If they have problems with China, they should not impose it upon us. We do not have a problem with China."
The press conference also marked the announcement of several new bilateral agreements between Australia and Malaysia, covering areas such as cybersecurity, technology, clean energy, sports, and education. Responding to questions about his use of the term "China-phobia" in a previous interview with the Financial Times, Anwar clarified that it was a response to criticisms of Malaysia for prioritizing its relationship with China, its largest trading partner.

In the broader regional context, the Philippines, an ASEAN member, called on its neighbors to unite more strongly in upholding the rule of law in the South China Sea. The Philippines urged collective action as China pursues territorial claims in the region, conflicting with other nations. This appeal echoes the sentiments expressed by Vice President Kamala Harris during her November visit to the Philippines, where she emphasized the need for countries to defend territorial integrity and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. Harris also indicated Washington's commitment to an international campaign against "irresponsible behavior" in the disputed waters.