Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof clarifies Malaysia’s neutral stance is pragmatic and principled, not passive, especially on sovereignty and trade.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will not be passive on international sovereignty issues despite its neutral diplomatic stance, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof asserted.
He described the nation’s foreign policy as pragmatic and independent, maintaining good relations with all while upholding global justice.
“When we say we are neutral, it does not mean we are passive or unclear in our position,” Fadillah said in an exclusive Bernama Radio interview.
He emphasised that Malaysia engages pragmatically with all relevant parties based on clear principles.
The deputy prime minister detailed active diplomatic engagements with leaders from countries including Turkiye and Pakistan.
Malaysia is also working with the United Nations and the United States to seek peaceful solutions to global issues.
Fadillah stated that Malaysia continues to balance firm positions on sovereignty with its crucial diplomatic trade relationships.
“Our trade relations with China, the US, Europe and the ASEAN region continue to grow,” he said.
The overarching diplomatic goal is to promote global stability to support sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity.
He made these comments during an interview on how geopolitical crises influence Malaysia’s energy transition.
