Malaysia’s one‑China policy stance: diplomacy above force

 Supporting the one‑China policy is consistent with our foreign policy, but it must always be framed through the lens of peaceful resolution.

From Jaziri Alkaf Abdillah Suffian

Malaysia has consistently upheld the one‑China policy as a cornerstone of our foreign relations. This principle reflects our recognition of China’s sovereignty and our commitment to constructive engagement with Beijing. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s recent remarks affirming Malaysia’s support for the policy have reaffirmed this position. However, it is essential to clarify that Malaysia does not condone the use of brute force in resolving cross‑strait issues.

Malaysia, although a small nation, has built its credibility on neutrality, diplomacy and bridge‑building. Our strength lies not in military might but in our ability to foster dialogue, cooperation and economic partnership. While we support the one‑China policy, we believe that any resolution must be achieved through peaceful negotiation and economic diplomacy. The use of force would not only undermine regional stability but also contradict the values of international cooperation that we have long championed.

This position is not one of weakness but of foresight. Malaysia’s neutrality has enabled us to engage with diverse partners, balancing relationships across Asia, the West and the wider global community. Maintaining this stance, Malaysia ensures that we remain a trusted interlocutor and a credible partner in international affairs.

Supporting the one‑China policy through diplomacy rather than force allows Malaysia to safeguard its long‑term interests while contributing to regional peace.

We also hope that Taiwan, in time, can integrate peacefully within the framework of the one‑China policy. Such integration must be guided by dialogue, mutual respect and economic cooperation, not coercion. Malaysia’s role is to encourage this process by promoting understanding and fostering platforms for constructive engagement.

The foreign ministry must continue to provide clear, strategic counsel to the prime minister, ensuring that Malaysia’s statements and actions reflect our commitment to diplomacy first. Our credibility as a neutral nation depends on prudence, balance and the consistent application of principles that prioritise peace over confrontation.

Confrontation in the Taiwan Strait would inevitably disrupt the global economy, destabilising supply chains and financial markets. We would not be immune to such shocks. As a trading nation, we are directly affected by the continuity of international commerce, and therefore, we bear a responsibility to ensure that our stance promotes stability. Rejecting the use of force and emphasising diplomacy, Malaysia contributes to safeguarding global trade flows and protecting our own economic resilience.

Malaysia must remain a nation of diplomacy, dialogue and economic partnership. Supporting the one‑China policy is consistent with our foreign policy, but it must always be framed through the lens of peaceful resolution. In doing so, Malaysia strengthens our role as a bridge‑builder in the evolving global order, ensuring that our future is secured not by force, but by cooperation and shared prosperity. - FMT

Jaziri Alkaf Abdillah Suffian is a former senator and the chair of BRICS International Malaysia.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of  MMKtT.