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MALAYSIAS FOREIGN POLICY
As an extension of domestic policy, foreign policy is designed with the purpose in mind of defending and promoting the countrys national security, economic and other vital interests.
Despite the diversity of views regarding the perception and explanation of foreign policy, no foreign policy can be formulated in a vacuum. ...
Malaysias foreign policy is no exception. Various geographical, historical, social and political determinants contribute to shaping the nature of Malaysias foreign policy and the conduct of the countrys international relations. ...
A critical examination of Malaysias foreign policy since 1957 would show its steady evolution characterised by notable changes in emphasis, which took place with the change in Malaysias political stewardship. ...
A period of consolidation ensued under Tun Hussein Onn with ASEAN becoming the cornerstone of Malaysias foreign policy following the collapse of Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City) in 1975, the withdrawal of the US military presence from Southeast Asia and the invasion of Kampuchea (now Cambodia) by Vietnam. ... Malaysias foreign policy stance began to take a much greater economic orientation than ever before, coupled with a strong and nationalistic defence of the rights, interests and aspirations of developing countries and the advocacy of south-south co-operation. ... Mahathirs premiership saw the pursuit of numerous new initiatives:
• Antarctica as the common heritage of mankind
• the look east policy (LEP)
• reverse investment
• East Asia Economic Caucus (EAEC)
• Group of 15 (G15) · ASEAN Mekong Basin Development Co-operation
• Islamic Unity and
• The championing of the cause of developing countries on major issues like environment, human rights, and democracy.
The evolution of the countrys foreign policy under successive prime ministers reflected a pragmatic response to the geopolitical and economic changes of their times. To be continually relevant to the countrys needs, foreign policy cannot remain static. But whilst change has become a general feature of Malaysian foreign policy, continuity has also been evident. ... Being less dependent on foreign aid and assistance, Malaysia has been able to speak up on issues that other developing countries feel constrained to voice for fear of retribution by the major, particularly western, powers. ... Indeed, our steadfast adherence to these principles, supported by a consistent foreign policy, has established for Malaysia certain credibility in the eyes of the international community. ... The so-called "constructive intervention" policy advocated by some, involving loud criticism, adversarial posturing and grand standing would only bring more harm than good to the promotion of neighbourly relations.
We do make exceptions to the policy of non-interference in certain extreme situations. ...
Similarly, our adoption of the "One China Policy", whilst pursuing close economic relations with Taiwan, bears no paradox but reflects our pragmatism in the face of certain realities. ...
Malaysias clear foreign policy goals in respect of defence and security, development and trade, international co-operation and diplomacy determine the pattern of relations that we have established with our neighbours. ... This is absolutely vital as strained relations between Malaysia and Singapore would inevitably present problems for the evolution of a truly regional community, whilst draining resources which could otherwise be put to effective use in our foreign policy agenda.
Approximate Word count = 2467
Approximate Pages = 9.9
(250 words per page double spaced)
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