When I started writing this article, social media was buzzing with viral clips of an Al Jazeera journalist interviewing Malaysia’s 10th Prime Minister, known as PMX. People across the country watched closely as reactions to PMX’s answers came in. One comment especially sparked debate: on the sensitive topic of Taiwan’s independence, PMX restated Malaysia’s support for the “One China” policy and firmly warned against any talk of separation within our own Federation.
His statement can be seen in two ways. If he meant to remind states like Johor, Sarawak, and Sabah to stay loyal to Malaysia and discourage talk of secession, I fully support that. As patriotic Malaysians, we have a duty to protect our Federation’s unity and integrity. But if his words hint that Malaysia is moving closer to China and its political interests, I strongly disagree. Malaysia’s future should never be tied to any foreign country’s interests.
Malaysia has always been, and should always stay, independent and neutral in global politics. This isn’t just talk—it’s a smart strategy for a trading nation like ours, since our success depends on strong diplomatic and economic relationships worldwide.
The only issue Malaysia has always taken a side on, or taken a strong stance on, is Palestine. Malaysia has never had, and will never have, friendly relations with Israel. This feeling is strong, based not only on religion but also on justice and sovereignty. Malaysians naturally reject the idea of taking others’ land, whether through old claims or modern power. In the same way we oppose outsiders occupying Malay lands, we also object to claims like China’s nine-dash line over the seas north of Borneo. At heart, our stance is about principle and patriotism.
Still, many experts believe PMX is repeating Malaysia’s long-standing diplomatic approach, which dates back to our 2nd Prime Minister, Tun Razak. Malaysia has always accepted China’s “One China” policy, but only for peaceful diplomatic cooperation. During the tense Cold War years, Malaysia’s neutral stance showed the world that we could build good relations with China even while fighting communism at home.
I believe strongly in Malaysia’s neutrality. It’s not a sign of weakness or indecision, but a clear statement of our independence. Real neutrality lets Malaysia make its own choices, always based on what is best for our country now and in the future.
Yet, recent data from the well-known Yusof Ishak Institute highlights this complexity. In their latest survey, 75.1% of Malaysian respondents (225 people) said they preferred to align with Asian superpowers. However, these numbers might show skepticism toward the US more than full support for the East.
Post-independence, Malaysians, especially Malays, often feel a stronger cultural and spiritual connection with the West than with communist China. As a mostly Muslim community, Malays share traditions with Christians and Jews, such as the stories of Adam and Eve, Abraham, and Moses, along with values like gratitude and caring for neighbors. These shared stories help build understanding and a sense of kinship with the West.
Malays’ fluency in English shows more than language skills—it also shows openness to global ideas. Many hope their children can study in the West or in countries with similar democratic values. Even for technical subjects, places like Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand are popular. For religious studies, countries such as Egypt and Jordan strongly influence the Malaysian worldview, blending Eastern and Western ideas.
On the other hand, it is rare or almost unheard of for Malay families to proudly mention if their children study in China, Russia, or Iran. This says a lot about the community’s hopes and cultural preferences.
Looking at it this way, the pattern is clear: most Malays have traditionally leaned toward the West, while non-Malays may have chosen other paths.
But recent conflicts in the Middle East have had a big impact on how Malaysians see the world, especially those less familiar with Western education or values. Malaysians who studied locally or in Chinese schools are starting to appreciate the Chinese way, encouraged by visible progress from Chinese companies and positive media coverage. China’s closeness and easy travel also help shape these new views, which differ sharply from those of fifty years ago.
If the US truly wants to match or surpass China’s influence here, it needs to do more than show economic or military strength. The real challenge is to win the trust and support of Malays and Muslims across Southeast Asia. This is not just America’s task. Its allies like Australia, Japan, and South Korea must also step up.
Why is this important? In times of crisis or conflict, how people feel and think matters most. If the US wants loyal and reliable allies, it must make sure these countries truly feel valued, respected, and understood. Trust comes from shared values and honesty, not just deals. Trust and honesty are the qualities that were missing during the difficult years of Islamophobia a few decades ago.
It’s time for the West to let go of hatred and fear toward Islam and Muslims. The best way forward is to show compassion, offer real friendship, and give hope for healing after years of mistrust and conflict. Only then can we start a new era of cooperation and understanding.
People who try to create conflict between the Muslim world and the West often do so for their own gain, afraid of what unity could achieve. As Malays and Malaysians, no matter our faith or background, we must stand together to protect our nation’s sovereignty and future. In the end, the West decides: will Malaysia and Southeast Asia be partners, stay neutral, or move closer to China? Their actions will determine the answer.
Ikram Rasid: The Paradoxical Patriot 
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