By Uyghur Times Staff
October 5, 2024
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has recently stirred controversy by denying the ongoing Uyghur genocide while expressing support for Hamas. In a candid interview with Mehdi Hasan, a prominent Muslim journalist and founder of ZETEO, Anwar stated his disagreement with the label of genocide when asked about China’s treatment of Uyghurs.
“Many people believe what is happening in Xinjiang, with Uyghurs, is also genocide,” Hasan said. Anwar responded firmly, “I dispute that.”
The Prime Minister’s remarks stand in sharp contrast to global human rights organizations, which have condemned China’s actions in the occupied Uyghur homeland as a form of genocide. The forced labor camps, mass surveillance, and repression of Uyghur culture have drawn widespread international criticism. However, Anwar, known for his close ties to China, has continuously avoided using strong language against Beijing.
When pressed on his views regarding Hamas, Anwar was more sympathetic, stating, “I understand their plight.”
Anwar’s Neutral Stance Between U.S. and China
This stance on controversial global issues aligns with Anwar’s broader foreign policy approach, where he has refused to choose sides between major powers. In a February interview with the Financial Times, Anwar said, “Why must I be tied to one interest? I don’t buy into this strong prejudice against China, this China-phobia.”
Anwar’s administration has pursued closer economic ties with China, prioritizing investments in Malaysia’s manufacturing, energy, and industrial sectors. During a visit to Beijing and the Boao Forum in Hainan last year, China’s President Xi Jinping committed an estimated RM170.1 billion ($35.6 billion) in investments to Malaysia.
This pro-China shift also became evident when Anwar modified Malaysia’s 5G network plan, allowing greater participation from the Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei.
Anwar’s balancing act between major global powers continues to raise eyebrows, especially as human rights violations like the Uyghur genocide remain a hot topic of international debate.
