Malaysia’s Foreign Policy Must Be Steady in an Uncertain World, Says Foreign Minister at MADANI Iftar

PUTRAJAYA, Feb 23: Malaysia’s foreign policy must remain steady, structured and forward-looking amid a rapidly changing and uncertain global landscape, Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan said at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ MADANI Iftar event tonight.

Speaking at the gathering held at Dewan Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, Bangunan WP1, Mohamad stressed that diplomacy today requires discipline, capable institutions and clear processes, particularly for an open and trade-dependent nation like Malaysia.

The event was attended by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Cabinet ministers, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and invited guests.

In his address, Mohamad described Ramadan as a time of reflection and responsibility, noting that officers of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs  also known as Wisma Putra  carry a unique mandate that spans borders, time zones and cultures.

“Diplomacy is about safeguarding the world’s trust in Malaysia and building understanding between Malaysians and citizens of other nations,” he said.

Strategic Plan 2026–2030

Mohamad highlighted the Ministry’s newly developed Strategic Plan 2026–2030, describing it as a roadmap designed to translate national priorities into a clear and actionable programme of work.

He said the plan is anchored in the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan, the MADANI Economy framework and the Public Service Reform Agenda (ARPA), and aims to strengthen Malaysia’s economic diplomacy, deepen bilateral partnerships and sustain multilateral engagement.

“In times such as these, we must be ready to adapt to any change, at any moment. We cannot simply stay the course, as the course itself no longer exists,” he said, referring to intensifying global rivalries and a fragmenting international order.

According to him, diplomacy must help open doors for trade, investment and partnerships in technology, education and innovation, while ensuring stability so businesses can operate confidently, students can travel and families feel secure.

ASEAN and Regional Cooperation

Touching on Malaysia’s regional role, Mohamad said it was impossible to discuss the country’s foreign policy without referencing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), of which Malaysia is a founding member.

He noted that during Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, the adoption of ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future marked an important milestone for the region.

However, he cautioned that agreements and documents alone are insufficient without sustained political will and alignment across ASEAN’s three community pillars.

“Maintaining ASEAN centrality requires careful balance , engaging all partners while remaining anchored in regional consensus,” he said, adding that the experience offered important lessons for the Ministry’s Strategic Plan moving forward.

Commitment to Constructive Engagement

Mohamad reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to constructive engagement and mutually respectful cooperation with all international partners.

He also expressed appreciation to the Prime Minister for his leadership and trust in the Ministry to carry out its mandate.

The minister concluded his speech by inviting Anwar to deliver his address and officiate the launch of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Strategic Plan 2026–2030.