Malaysia Considers Legal and Diplomatic Response Over Norway’s Missile Export Halt, Says Fahmi

KUALA LUMPUR: Putrajaya will explore diplomatic channels and may consider appropriate legal action following Norway’s decision to halt exports of a missile series ordered by Malaysia, government spokesman Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said.

Fahmi said the matter was raised during Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s discussion with his Norwegian counterpart on May 12.

“We will pursue steps through diplomatic channels while also examining legal aspects,” he said during a post-Cabinet press conference on Wednesday (May 13).

He said the Malaysian government strongly regretted Norway’s last-minute decision not to approve an export permit for the missile procurement, which prevented the Norwegian company involved from continuing the agreed supply.

According to Fahmi, the contract was signed in 2018 and had been implemented smoothly, with all payments made according to schedule.

“The Malaysian government cannot accept the reasons given by the Norwegian government,” he said.

He stressed that the planning and implementation of the National Defence Plan are strategic matters that cannot be compromised under any circumstances.

“What was communicated to the Cabinet is that it was not related to the company, but rather the decision by the Norwegian government not to grant the export permit,” he said, adding that questions remain over the rationale behind the decision.

Fahmi also noted that the export permit was withdrawn at a late stage, after all payments had already been completed.

“This is extremely disappointing and deeply regretted. Actions, whether legal or diplomatic, are being undertaken,” he said.

When asked whether Norway would be required to compensate Malaysia, Fahmi said the issue had been raised by the prime minister during his conversation with the Norwegian leader.

“This issue does not directly involve the Norwegian government,” he said.

“However, it is the Norwegian government that withdrew or did not issue the export permit at the last minute for the company to proceed with delivery.”

He added that the matter will be discussed further and remains under review.