Malaysia Addresses Differences Through Diplomatic Engagement – PM Anwar

HANGZHOU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia addresses any differences with neighbouring countries through continuous diplomatic engagement and constructive dialogue, rather than by creating conflict or fostering suspicion.

In a wide-ranging speech highlighting the deep cultural and diplomatic ties between Malaysia and China, Anwar also shared personal anecdotes about the mutual respect and close philosophical understanding he shares with the Chinese leadership.

He praised Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang for their humility and for treating smaller countries as equal partners, a quality he described as crucial for developing nations navigating post-colonial realities and modern geopolitical pressures.

“Many people always ask me, why do you seem so close to China? I ask them in return, what kind of question is that? We are close to China because China is our neighbour.

“I find it difficult to understand the attitude that promotes the view that ‘China cannot be trusted’. Such an attitude stems from certain other prejudices, but it certainly does not represent us,” Anwar said at the global launch of the Chinese-language edition of his latest book, Rethinking Ourselves: Justice, Reform, and Ignorance in Postnormal Times, here on Wednesday.

Also present at the launch were Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

The book focuses on how identities can be reshaped and pathways towards coexistence explored against the backdrop of the emergence of newly independent nations and their struggles against colonialism and imperialism.

It also advocates a shift towards “shared prosperity” rather than merely pursuing self-interest.

Published by World Affairs Press under China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the book was translated by Dr Yan Lijin, with about 5,000 copies printed.

The original English edition of Rethinking Ourselves: Justice, Reform, and Ignorance in Postnormal Times was published in October 2025 by Penguin Random House SEA.

Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, is currently in China for a three-day working visit to Shanghai and Hangzhou, which includes high-level bilateral meetings with Li as well as engagements with Chinese leaders and industry figures.

BERNAMA