PUBLIC LECTURE

BY

PRIME MINISTER

DATO’ SERI ANWAR BIN IBRAHIM

 

SUPERPOWER RIVALRY AND RISING TENSIONS IN THE ASIA- PACIFIC: THE VIEW FROM SOUTHEAST ASIA

 

14 NOVEMBER 2023 (TUESDAY)

 

THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY

 

Honoured members of the faculty,

Distinguished guests, and the vibrant assembly of UC Berkeley students.

 

1. It is a great honour to address you here in this citadel of enlightenment and progress that is Traversing the grounds beneath the silent gaze of the towering Campanile, I am vividly reminded that here, the fires of innovation, debate, and progress have burned brightly for generations. Berkeley represents more than a mere academic sanctuary; it is, indeed, a crucible where the visions of tomorrow are not just dreamt but actively forged and refined.

 

MALAYSIA-US STRATEGIC TIES

2. It is perhaps understandable if Malaysia’s relations with the United States do not capture the same kind of attention as those involving China, Japan, or the Because it is neither an alliance nor particularly contentious, it often seems as if the relationship is destined to hide in plain sight. But thinking so that would be a disservice to the long years of collaboration and mutual respect that our two nations have built.

 

3. And let me put this as plainly as I can: Malaysia regards its strategic relations with the United States as crucial to its economic vibrancy and national security interests. This position stems from an objective, rational and perhaps utilitarian assessment of how best to serve Malaysia’s needs on the world

 

4. The facts speak for themselves – the US ranks among our largest foreign investors, with over US$100 billion pledged just this year across manufacturing, services, and digital sectors. And that is likely an undercount, as many US firms channel investments through subsidiaries across Asia and Europe. The US stands as Malaysia’s third largest trading partner, while we are America’s 17^th largest export

 

5. Defence and security cooperation represents a vital anchor for the broader relationship. Malaysia conducts more bilateral and multilateral military exercises with the US than with any of our other partners: 11 bilateral and five multilateral exercises These help to build critical capacity and readiness for our forces. Between 2018 and 2022, US security assistance exceeded $220 million, providing equipment, training, and other vital support.

 

6. In addition, we engage in cooperative efforts to enhance maritime security and combat transnational menaces such as cybercrime, terrorism, violent extremism, and drug These concerns surpass national boundaries, and their resolution necessitates collaborative effort that capitalises on collective capacities.

 

7. Beyond security ties, Malaysia has become a robust partner to the United States across spheres like education, climate change, public health, and empowering marginalised Thousands of Malaysian students enrol in American universities each year, seeking a world-class education before returning home to contribute to national development.

 

8. Malaysia also participates actively in the US-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), showcasing its commitment to regional economic integration and collaboration. As a nation strategically positioned in Southeast Asia, Malaysia views the IPEF as a vital platform to enhance trade, strengthen supply chains, promote sustainable practices, and support anti- corruption measures alongside other participating countries. The Malaysian government is keen on leveraging the IPEF to not only advance its own economic interests but also to contribute significantly to the development of the framework’s key pillars.

 

9. The next year will be ten years since Malaysia and the United States elevated their bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership in April We will formulate a practical plan by the end of this year on how we could further strengthen this partnership for the benefit of Malaysians, Americans, and the wider region.

 

MALAYSIA’S CENTRAL ROLE IN CRITICAL TECHNOLOGIES

 

10. But why should all this matter to the United States? At the core of Malaysia’s global offering is an unmatched capacity to be a reliable partner on critical For over 50 years, Malaysia has been home to leading technology multinationals, particularly in electronics and semiconductors.

 

11. Malaysia plays a pivotal role in the global tech industry, supplying 25% of the semiconductor components that power the United States’ technology demands. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ford’s production of their iconic F-150 pick-up truck hinged crucially on Malaysia’s decision to reopen its industrial operations.
12. Half of all composite wing parts for Boeing and Airbus planes are made in Malaysia. We are also a vital link in medical technology supply chains, with nearly 300 companies employing 70,000 skilled workers.

 

13. Further, giants like Intel, Infineon, and Amazon Web Services are investing billions more to expand cutting-edge production capacity in Malaysia. Approved foreign investments in the first quarter of this year rose 67% year-on-year, reaching over RM17 billion. Malaysia is seizing opportunities and delivering results – and in doing so, we have become an important link in the global supply chain for critical technologies.

 

NAVIGATING US-CHINA STRATEGIC COMPETITION

 

14. As strategic competition intensifies between the United States and China, Malaysia approaches relations with both pragmatically and judiciously.

 

15. We will work with partners to minimise risks – namely outright conflict or the bifurcation of the global economy into rigid blocs. Neither seems likely soon, but both have become plausible under today’s mounting I do not believe armed conflict between major powers is inevitable, and middle powers like Malaysia can help reduce tensions through creative diplomacy. There remains space to pursue robust relations with both the US and China particularly in spheres like climate change, the energy transition, education, and people-to-people ties offer room for cooperation.

 

16. Recognising contradictions will inevitably emerge, Malaysia still sees value in engaging both Washington and Beijing. America’s economic dynamism, culture of innovation and central role in underwriting regional stability will ensure it leads in many spheres for the foreseeable future. Barring the occasional lapses in policy positions, America’s overall openness to immigration and talent sustains this competitive edge. So long as peaceful competition remains possible, countries like ours need not reflexively choose one side or the other.

 

17. China will remain central to regional affairs due to its size, proximity, and deep linkages with Southeast Asia. As China’s economy matures, it will shift emphasis from investment and exports towards domestic consumption and services. The sheer scale of China’s population ensures its enormous market will continue growing in These realities mean constructive relations with China remain essential, even as we balance America’s enduring role. Engaging both major powers provides Malaysia with more strategic space to advance our national interests. To my mind, this mantra applies across the board for Southeast Asia although there will be shades of differentiation in the details.

 

18. Turning to the South China Sea, Malaysia’s position is rooted in enduring strategic and economic We strongly oppose any actions undermining our territorial integrity or freedom of navigation. Unfettered sea lines of communication through the South China Sea are critical, as our nation would be bifurcated without them. Nevertheless, Malaysia believes in the power of diplomacy as the best tool for conflict resolution.

 

19. We also rely heavily on oil and gas resources within our lawful exclusive economic zone, which accounts for up to 40% of government revenue depending on commodity Our position has been consistent and remains unchanged.

 

20. A pragmatic foreign policy integrates diplomacy and seeks While uncompromising in standing up for sovereign rights, Malaysia consistently grounds its approach in international law, particularly UNCLOS. And while periodic challenges arise, Malaysia has succeeded in pursuing a strategic partnership with China, enabling enhanced cooperation in areas like trade, investment and tourism while still upholding our principles. We are determined to proceed in a constructive manner, one that has our long-term interests as the guiding star.

 

21. There is no doubt that the continued US-China rivalry will be the structural reality of world Almost all major aspects of international relations will be shaped by this condition. Yet it would be too simple to reduce and boil everything down to just these two countries.

 

22. Due to its size, growing confidence on the international stage, and highly influential culture and global diaspora, India will figure increasingly prominently in global And despite the naysayers, it is never wise to bet against Japan, whose economy has regained some of its previous lustre and demonstrating its sheer resilience. Japan’s wish to become a more normal country and play a more active role in the security of the Asia Pacific is natural and legitimate. Prime Minister Kishida was just in Kuala Lumpur earlier this month, and I was pleased to welcome Japan’s desire for more defence cooperation with Malaysia.

 

23. We also look forward to South Korea extending its role in stabilising the broader Asia A confluence of many nations, each seeking a responsible role and stake in the region, will generate an equilibrium that will sustain peace and prosperity for all.

 

DEMOCRACY IN THE AGE OF SOCIAL MEDIA DISRUPTION

 

24. This is a time of profound disruption across all facets of international As information technology reshapes societies everywhere, we have reached an unprecedented intersection between opportunity and risk. While its utilitarian benefits are well known, social media also facilitates the spread of harmful misinformation and falsehoods at unmatched speed and scale, endangering the informed citizenry essential to healthy democracies.

 

25. Malaysia has long been heralded as a beacon of moderation, demonstrating a harmonious balance between its rich Islamic heritage and modernity. Historically, Malaysia has navigated the complex waters of religious expression with a deft hand, allowing for a pluralistic society where different faiths coexist peacefully under the umbrella of a predominantly Muslim population.

 

26. However, the ubiquity of social media platforms has ushered in new The digital age has allowed for the rapid dissemination of information, but it has also become a conduit for more intolerant ideologies to seep into the Malaysian discourse. These strains of thought, often rooted in a more rigid interpretation of Islam, have found fertile ground in the unregulated expanses of the online world. The phenomenon is not unique to Malaysia; it mirrors the rise of fascist right-wing elements in Europe and beyond, where misinformation campaigns have successfully amplified fringe views into mainstream consciousness.

 

27. In the process, falsehood trumps truth, providing fodder to spin narratives founded on lies and deceit. Take the case of the web of duplicity and disinformation spun around the narrative on Malaysia’s position on the current Palestinian-Israeli That in calling for a ceasefire and a stop to the incessant bombing of Gaza, Malaysia somehow condones acts of terrorism.

 

28. As I had declared in the Malaysian Parliament, there are no two ways about it. We condemn terrorism, in all its forms, and we categorically condemn the actions of killing innocent lives and taking women and children as Likewise, we unequivocally condemn the bombing of civilians, of homes and hospitals and the consequential atrocities against innocent lives, children, women, and men being carried out day and night in Gaza with impunity. These are blatant violations of international law.

 

29. Malaysia views this as a humanitarian crisis precipitated by a brutal and indiscriminate war. Ultimately, this isn’t about which God we pray to. After all, the more than 11,000 victims in Gaza comprise Muslims and Christians as well as nationalities of various countries. This is about preventing more deaths, more suffering and more Proponents of the Palestinian cause are neither purveyors of hate speech nor supporters of terrorism.

 

30. What’s happening today in Palestine will affect us The implications of this strife are significant and long-lasting. It is poised to affect not just Palestine or the broader Middle East, but also leave an imprint on global relations for many years to come.
31. My message today resonates with urgency as we stand here in Berkeley, not far from the technological epicentre that is Silicon The influence that social media wields has expanded to monumental proportions. Even in Malaysia, the forces of obscurantism are harnessing every novel technology and technique to disseminate falsehoods. This burgeoning crisis is reaching a tipping point, signalling an impending need for government intervention and international cooperation to rein in the chaos.

 

32. Tech companies, especially those that have flourished in the fertile ground of Silicon Valley, carry the crucial responsibility as custodians of modern They are tasked with implementing policies that counter misinformation and disinformation while upholding the right to free speech.

 

33. Implementing advanced technological solutions and robust human content moderation grounded in local contexts is These measures and a commitment to transparency and accountability are vital for these platforms to serve as conduits for constructive dialogue rather than channels for deceit and manipulation.

 

34. As we confront these unprecedented challenges, let us approach them as a clarion call to fortify and rejuvenate our democratic institutions for the digital This is the moment to forge stronger partnerships and to capitalise on innovations that can safeguard our societies and the fabric of our collective life. Democracy, despite its flaws, remains our best hope, and its endurance depends on our collective vigilance and continuous improvement, echoing the dedication of those who came before us.

 

35. And I see hope when I’m on university campuses. It is in bastions of learning where we are going to find solutions – or at least near solutions – to the complex problems that we face, where politics and deeply held beliefs intersect with After all, it is on campuses like Berkeley that we have students who can decipher quantum physics equations while simultaneously advocating for climate change awareness. You’re the experts at debating the intricacies of political philosophy, all while pondering the eternal question [pause]: “Is it too late to order pizza?”

 

36. But in all seriousness, the problems we face are not neatly confined to a single field of study. They cut across boundaries, demanding knowledge from multiple disciplines to unlock their secrets. So, whether you’re a physicist, a philosopher, an engineer, or a pizza enthusiast, remember that collaboration and the melding of diverse perspectives will be our greatest assets in finding the answers we seek.

 

37. Walt Whitman once said: “Gratitude, anyhow, has never been made half enough of by the moralists; it is indispensable to a complete character, man’s or woman’s—the disposition to be appreciative, ”thankful.”

 

38. I am deeply grateful for your engagement and consideration I look forward to our paths converging again as we labour in pursuit of our shared aspirations for prosperity and justice. Until then, let us each pledge to contribute to the arduous yet rewarding task of nurturing a world where truth prevails and democracy thrives.

 

Thank you.

 

 

 

 

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