Anwar urges emerging nations to break free from big power dictates

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on emerging nations to assert their strategic autonomy, stating their future should not be "tied to the dictates of the big powers, be it United States or China." During a public lecture in Ankara on Wednesday, Anwar decried the failure of the international system, marked by what he described as hypocrisy and the diminished utility of democratic principles.

Critique of World Order and Praise for Erdogan

Speaking at an event co-hosted by SETA and a Malaysian institute, Anwar declared the "international system and order has failed." He highlighted the need for a "voice of conscience" and hailed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's "realistic position" as providing such moral consistency. SETA General Coordinator Nebi Mis noted the "real momentum" in Türkiye-Malaysia relations and thanked Malaysia for its stance against Israeli attacks on Gaza.

Positions on Venezuela and Gaza

The Prime Minister outlined his country's principled foreign policy, referencing Malaysia's "very strong position" on Venezuela. He stressed that any action "must be in accordance with international rules and law," warning against unilateralism that causes instability. On Gaza, Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia's support for the Palestinian struggle, criticizing the international community for making an "exception" for what he termed Israeli "colonialism" and "oppression" in Palestinian territories.

Context of Strategic Autonomy

Anwar's remarks underscore a growing sentiment among middle-power nations seeking to navigate an increasingly polarized world order. His alignment with Türkiye's foreign policy vision reinforces a partnership based on shared critiques of unilateralism and a commitment to advocating for Muslim world interests and a more equitable multilateral system.