Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Anwar says force justified to preserve Malaysia's territorial integrity
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has declared he would resort to force if necessary to prevent any part of Malaysia from seceding, drawing parallels to cross-strait tensions during a media engagement in Sarawak.
LSN Malaysia ·
KUCHING, Aug 19 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stated unequivocally that he would use military force to maintain Malaysia's territorial integrity should any region attempt to break away from the federation.
Anwar made the remarks while responding to questions about China-Taiwan relations during an engagement in the Sarawak capital, underscoring the federal government's commitment to preserving national unity. His comments reflect the gravity with which Kuala Lumpur views the principle of territorial cohesion, particularly relevant given Malaysia's own complex structure as a federation comprising 13 states and three federal territories.
The Prime Minister's assertion aligns with established constitutional principles governing the federation, where secession is constitutionally prohibited. His remarks carry particular weight given ongoing regional and international discussions about self-determination and autonomy movements across Asia.
Anwar's position reinforces the federal government's unwavering stance on maintaining the constitutional framework that has governed Malaysia since independence, with national unity remaining a cornerstone of government policy.