By: Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid
Malaysia must be vigilant not to fall into the trap of being a proxy for hegemonic interests. The global narrative against Iran often masks a deeper agenda: to weaken any Muslim nation that challenges Western dominance and rejects Israeli impunity.
Malaysia, as a sovereign nation guided by the principles of international justice, must stand firmly in defending the right of the Islamic Republic of Iran to pursue its development path free from coercion, sanctions, or threats by powerful nations.
In the current geopolitical context, the continued economic sanctions and political pressure imposed on Iran — particularly by the United States and its allies — represent an unjust and unilateral exercise of power. These sanctions are not only illegal under international law when imposed without a United Nations mandate, but they have also caused immense suffering to ordinary Iranian citizens, affecting access to healthcare, food, and basic necessities.
Justice Cannot Be Sacrificed for Strategic Ties
Malaysia has long upheld an independent and principled foreign policy. We must not abandon that tradition by aligning ourselves with power blocs that suppress sovereign nations under the guise of diplomacy or “international security.”
Malaysia’s position must be clear: justice, sovereignty, and the rule of international law must come before appeasing global superpowers for trade or political convenience.
Iran’s Consistent Support for Palestine
Iran remains one of the most steadfast nations in supporting the Palestinian cause and opposing the illegal Zionist occupation of Palestine. At a time when many Muslim-majority countries have normalized relations with Israel, Iran stands firm on its principles.
Malaysia, which has consistently advocated for Palestinian rights, should acknowledge Iran’s unwavering stance and extend solidarity — not necessarily through policy alignment, but through the recognition that we share common ground in supporting oppressed peoples.
Beware of Becoming a Proxy
Malaysia must be vigilant not to fall into the trap of being a proxy for hegemonic interests. The global narrative against Iran often masks a deeper agenda: to weaken any Muslim nation that challenges Western dominance and rejects Israeli impunity.
This is not merely a regional issue — it is part of a broader pattern of intervention, destabilization, and the manipulation of global opinion to justify economic warfare and isolation.
Malaysia’s Role as a Bridge for Dialogue
Malaysia has earned international respect as a neutral and principled nation. We should leverage that position to act as a bridge for regional dialogue, promoting diplomacy, de-escalation, and peaceful engagement — not alignment with hostile foreign agendas.
Conclusion: Standing for Principle, Not Popularity
Malaysia must remain on the side of truth, dignity, and justice. Defending Iran’s right to sovereignty is not an endorsement of its every policy, but a principled stand against global bullying, double standards, and illegal coercion.
"The true dignity of a nation lies not in its economic size, but in its courage to uphold justice even under pressure."
Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid is a humanitarian activist and President of MAPIM, a Malaysian umbrella body of Muslim NGOs engaged in international advocacy and solidarity work, especially in Palestine, Syria, Yemen, and Iran.
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