By Yasmin Ramlan
SHAH ALAM, Jan 20 — Malaysia says it supports peace efforts for Gaza in principle but is cautious about joining any proposed reconstruction or peace committee, citing ongoing violence and restricted humanitarian access.
Responding to a supplementary question from Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman about a peace committee proposed by US President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said several aspects of Gaza’s post‑attack reconstruction plan remain unclear, including its mandate and the countries involved, while Israeli attacks continue and humanitarian aid is still blocked.
“We are closely monitoring the follow‑up proposal by President Trump and the United States regarding the establishment of a peace committee,” Anwar said during Prime Minister’s Question Time at the Dewan Rakyat today. “In principle, we support initiatives aimed at ensuring peace but we have several views and reservations regarding the formation of such a committee and the individuals involved.”
The proposed Board of Peace is an international body envisioned to oversee post‑war governance, reconstruction and development in the Gaza Strip under a US‑led peace plan. However, details such as its objectives and participants have yet to be confirmed, and some invitations are said to have gone to countries with strained relations.
Anwar said many announcements remain unverified and will be discussed at an upcoming ministers’ meeting this Friday, with Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan tasked to obtain full details.
In response to another question on whether Malaysia risks losing policy space due to pressure from major powers through economic and trade influence, Anwar acknowledged that such pressures exist. He said the government’s strategy is to safeguard Malaysia’s interests by strengthening regional and global partnerships.
“We strengthen regional cooperation within ASEAN, as we did recently during the ASEAN Summit where we reached agreements on policy issues,” he said. “We also expand networks with the European Union and reinforce ties with other countries including Brazil, South Africa, China, Australia and India.”
Anwar said Malaysia’s approach is guided by careful diplomacy to avoid confrontation while defending national interests.
He also addressed questions on Malaysia’s stance on geopolitical issues in Venezuela and Greenland, and on trade ties with Iran, which is facing anti‑government protests, economic challenges, and heightened tensions with the US and Israel.
Anwar emphasised that Malaysia has taken a firm stand against violations of international law, including events in Venezuela, and rejects any attempt to seize Greenland by force, in line with international norms.
On Iran, he said Malaysia will maintain diplomatic and trade relations based on national interest and sovereignty despite external pressure.
“We must be wise — not appearing weak but not taking positions that could harm the country’s interests,” he said.
