Hong Kong's South China Morning Post published an exclusive interview with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, saying that he would not get involved in the geopolitical tensions between China and the United States and would not be forced to "take sides." Anwar seeks to accelerate Malaysia's transformation into a high-tech economy by strengthening economic and strategic ties with China.

In an interview, Anwar firmly stated that he would put Malaysia's interests first and continue to do business with China, but he also said that he had no intention of being hostile to the United States, nor would he be swayed by the unilateral actions of one country against another. He would not succumb to pressure , and Malaysia would no longer be a neo-colonial or colonial rule. It is an independent country. He is full of confidence in the future of China-Malaysia cooperation, and believes that both China and the United States are major powers. China "has great capabilities, understands its priorities, and can listen to opinions and make adjustments quickly. In addition, regarding the Taiwan issue, Malaysia and the world pursue a one-China policy, and the relationship between mainland China and Taiwan is a domestic affair. And warned other partners, including the United States, not to be seen as provocative . Regarding the situation in the South China Sea, the West has an attitude of "obsession and tendency to exaggerate the problem". He called for resolving the South China Sea dispute through bilateral contacts and ASEAN mechanisms, rather than third-party intervention, and regional countries "have the ability to manage their own affairs."

At the same time, he condemned the rising tide of "China phobia" in the West. He did not believe in this strong prejudice against China, and pointed out that Malaysia seeks to "regard China as an important ally while maintaining good and stable relations with the United States." At a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Albanese, Anwar said in person that the United States, Europe and Australia have opinions on China, but they should not be imposed on Malaysia, nor should they prevent Malaysia from maintaining friendly relations with China. In this round of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he severely condemned Israel's Western allies for failing to stop Israel's destructive actions in Gaza. He rejected the US request to "sever ties with Hamas."

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia. Malaysia hopes to accelerate its transformation into a high-tech economy by strengthening its economic and strategic relations with China and leveraging China's investment capabilities and technological expertise in areas such as manufacturing and renewable energy.

After taking office in November 2022, the Anwar government is committed to reviving Malaysia's economy, which has been affected by years of mismanagement and the epidemic, and attaches importance to attracting foreign investment to promote the development of the country's manufacturing, energy and industrial sectors. Malaysia pursues an independent "all-round diplomacy" policy and does not take sides in the geopolitical tensions between China and the United States. There are no problems between China and Malaysia, and Malaysia is not affected by US pressure.

Of course, it makes sense for Malaysia to strengthen its relationship with China because China is "willing to accommodate and listen" to Malaysia's suggestions and concerns. This includes helping to build Malaysia's digital economy, renewable energy and artificial intelligence capabilities, and getting Malaysia more involved in joint ventures. Anwar said that China is an important neighbor and Malaysia should remain independent, abide by the principle of neutrality, and do its best to focus on economic development, thereby increasing trade and strengthening investment. This is our responsibility, not only Malaysia's responsibility, but also ASEAN's responsibility. This is being conveyed to the United States in a timely manner.