Malaysia stands firm on sovereignty and rejects misleading claims linking criticism of Israel to anti-semitism, says former senator.
I HAVE taken note of the statements made by several members of the United States Congress concerning Malaysia’s position on Israeli nationals, following the investigation and enforcement action relating to the operation of Network School in Forest City, Johor.
As a senior lawyer and a former senator and MP of Malaysia, I believe these statements must be answered firmly, factually and in accordance with the principle of mutual respect between sovereign nations.
First, Malaysia’s position towards the State of Israel must not be equated with hostility towards Jewish people or Judaism. Israeli nationality and Jewish identity are not interchangeable. Any suggestion that Malaysia is “kicking Jews out” or carrying out a “purge” is inflammatory, misleading and does not accurately represent Malaysia’s policy.
Malaysia rejects anti-semitism, Islamophobia and every form of racial or religious hatred. At the same time, Malaysia has the right to oppose occupation, the displacement of the Palestinian people and violations of international law.
Criticisms of the policies and conduct of the Israeli government does not constitute hatred towards Jewish people.
Second, Malaysia is a sovereign nation. Like the United States and every other country, Malaysia has the right to determine its diplomatic relations, regulate the entry of foreign nationals and require every person and organisation operating within its territory to comply with its laws.
In the Network School matter, the actions of the authorities must be assessed on the basis of facts, evidence and due process. The finding that the individuals inspected possessed valid travel documents must be respected.
At the same time, questions concerning business licensing, immigration compliance, operational models, security and national sovereignty legitimately fall within Malaysia’s jurisdiction.
No action should be taken against any organisation merely on the basis of race or religion. However, no investor, foreign national or private organisation can expect to operate above Malaysian law.
Third, threatening to review security and economic relations or suspend assistance to Malaysia within a prescribed period is not constructive diplomacy.
Malaysia and the US share extensive and important relations in trade, education, security and people-to-people cooperation. Differences between our countries should be addressed through mature dialogue – not ultimatums or misleading characterisations.
Malaysia should not be pressured into changing its independent foreign policies merely because they differ from the position adopted by certain members of the US Congress. Relations between two friendly nations must be founded upon equality, mutual respect and recognition of each other’s sovereignty.
Malaysia remains open to global talent, technology, innovation and responsible investment. Economic openness, however, does not require Malaysia to surrender its sovereignty, laws or humanitarian principles.
Malaysia stands against anti-semitism. Malaysia also stands against occupation and injustice towards the Palestinian people. These positions are not contradictory. They reflect Malaysia’s consistent commitment to human dignity, justice, international law and global peace.
I urge all parties, including members of the US Congress, to avoid rhetoric that conflates criticism of Israel with hatred towards Jewish people.
The world needs greater dialogue, factual accuracy and moral courage – not accusations that deepen existing divisions.
Yusmadi Yusoff
Senior Lawyer
Former Senator and MP of Malaysia
