In a wide-ranging and exclusive interview with India Today, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim delved into several critical issues that have implications not only for bilateral relations between Malaysia and India but also for broader regional and global concerns. One of the key topics discussed was the extradition request by India for Zakir Naik, a controversial Islamic preacher who has been residing in Malaysia since fleeing India in 2016. Naik faces charges in India related to spreading religious hatred and money laundering. Anwar Ibrahim made it clear that while Malaysia is open to examining any evidence provided by India that might justify Naik's extradition, the current stance is to allow Naik to remain in Malaysia, provided he does not engage in activities that threaten the country’s security. The Prime Minister emphasized that Naik has not made any inflammatory statements against India while in Malaysia, and as long as this remains the case, the issue will not be pursued further by his government.
Anwar's comments came after India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar raised the matter during their recent discussions, signaling that the issue remains a significant point of concern for India. Zakir Naik, who was granted permanent residency by the Malaysian government under former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamed, has been a contentious figure, with his Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) being banned in India. This has added a layer of complexity to the diplomatic relations between the two nations.
On the subject of Kashmir, Anwar Ibrahim took a measured approach, stating that Malaysia views the situation as a "purely domestic issue" of India. He refrained from taking a definitive stance on the matter, focusing instead on the importance of peace, security, and the reduction of tensions in the region. This cautious stance contrasts with the previous administration’s more outspoken criticism, particularly under Mahathir Mohamed, who had publicly condemned India's revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and the subsequent implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Mahathir's comments had led to a diplomatic rift between Malaysia and India, impacting trade relations and sparking broader debates on the international stage.
While Anwar avoided delving into the intricacies of the Kashmir dispute, he did express his concerns regarding the treatment of religious and ethnic minorities in India. Drawing a parallel to India’s right to question Malaysia on certain issues, Anwar asserted that Malaysia, too, has the right to voice its concerns about the conditions faced by minorities in India. This comment underscores the sensitive nature of religious and ethnic issues in both countries and highlights the potential for these concerns to influence bilateral relations.
The interview also touched upon the Rohingya refugee crisis, a pressing issue for Malaysia, which has become a primary destination for Rohingya refugees fleeing persecution in Myanmar and Bangladesh. Anwar acknowledged that while Malaysia has a humanitarian duty to protect these refugees, the sheer number of them—estimated at around 200,000—is placing significant strain on the country’s resources and infrastructure. Malaysia does not officially grant refugee status, yet it hosts over 180,000 refugees and asylum seekers, many of whom live in precarious conditions after arriving illegally by sea. Anwar’s remarks reflect the complex and often challenging situation Malaysia faces in balancing humanitarian responsibilities with the practical realities of accommodating such a large refugee population.
In addition to these critical issues, the interview highlighted the ongoing diplomatic engagements between Malaysia and India. Anwar Ibrahim extended an invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur next year, an invitation that Modi accepted, signaling the importance both countries place on maintaining strong bilateral ties. During their recent bilateral meeting, the two nations elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, signing eight agreements to deepen cooperation across various sectors, including trade, defense, and technology.
This strengthening of ties comes at a time when both Malaysia and India are navigating a complex geopolitical landscape, marked by shifting alliances and emerging challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The agreements signed between the two countries reflect a mutual recognition of the need to collaborate more closely in addressing these challenges and seizing new opportunities for growth and development.
Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to India, his first since taking office in 2022, marks a significant moment in the relationship between the two nations. His statements during the interview reflect a nuanced approach to diplomacy, one that balances Malaysia’s domestic considerations with its international obligations. As both countries continue to engage on issues of mutual concern, the relationship between Malaysia and India is likely to evolve, shaped by the broader trends in regional and global politics.
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