KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for the immediate de-escalation of conflicts in West Asia and a renewed global commitment to diplomacy, warning that continued violence risks triggering far-reaching economic and security repercussions.
Delivering his keynote address at the Kuala Lumpur-Ankara Dialogue 2026, he described the current situation in West Asia as a “harsh and dismal reality”, marked by the loss of thousands of lives, the destruction of civilian infrastructure, and indiscriminate attacks on critical facilities.
“As we gather to strengthen the linkages between Malaysia and Turkiye, we do so at a time when the world is once again confronted with a harsh and dismal reality, the tragedy of war in West Asia,” Anwar said.
He noted that the ongoing conflict has resulted in immense human suffering, with thousands of lives lost and innocent civilians, including schoolchildren, being massacred while seeking shelter in their classrooms, bridges blown to smithereens, and oil as well as nuclear installations being bombed indiscriminately.
“The human and physical cost continues to mount, even as diplomatic efforts are being pursued to halt the violence and restore stability,” Anwar said.
The Prime Minister also warned of a growing erosion of sovereignty and the weakening of international norms due to the increasing use of unrestrained military force.
“By the unmitigated recourse to military actions that are neither justified nor restrained, we are witnessing the disintegration of a principle that has long underpinned international stability,” he said.
A rules-based international order must be applied consistently and not selectively, as its credibility depends on fairness, particularly in times of crisis.
“Let us be clear: a rules-based international order cannot be invoked selectively. It cannot protect some while denying others their legitimate rights.
"Its credibility rests entirely on its consistent and even-handed application, particularly in moments of crisis,” Anwar said.
He also reiterated Malaysia’s firm stance in advocating restraint and dialogue, expressing solidarity with Turkiye’s diplomatic approach, which emphasises engagement over escalation, and with other countries' efforts to facilitate negotiations.
Similarly, diplomacy must be pursued with sincerity, as superficial ceasefires without genuine commitment to peace would only prolong conflict.
“What is required now is not the management of conflict but its resolution, a genuine commitment to de-escalation, anchored in mutual respect and a fervent desire for peace and stability consistent with international law,” Anwar said.
Highlighting the broader implications of the conflict, he said the crisis is no longer confined to a specific region, with its effects already being felt globally, including in Southeast Asia.
“The Gulf, and in particular the Strait of Hormuz, remains central to global energy security.
“Any sustained disruption would not simply raise prices. It would reverberate across production systems, supply chains, and the daily cost of living for hundreds of millions across both advanced and developing economies,” Anwar said.
The Prime Minister also emphasised the importance of strengthening Malaysia-Turkiye relations, noting that such partnerships are built on sustained effort, mutual trust, and shared values.
“Our partnership did not emerge by chance. It is built on sustained effort and commitment to deepen cooperation.
"It is a profound conviction that has grown from the foundations of mutual trust, respect, and shared values,” he said.
By urging the international community to act collectively and decisively to avert a prolonged crisis, peace can be built through consistent effort, courage, and a commitment to justice.
“Giving peace a chance is not a mere mantra, nor can peace be handed to us on a platter. It must be built, deliberately and patiently, with resolve, with courage, and with an unwavering commitment to justice and human dignity,” Anwar concluded.
