PUBLIC LECTURE BY PRIME MINISTER: SUPERPOWER RIVALRY AND RISING TENSIONS IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC: THE VIEW FROM SOUTHEAST ASIA

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

  1. 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.
  1. 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
  1. 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 17th largest export
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  1. 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

 

  1. As strategic competition intensifies between the United States and China, Malaysia approaches relations with both pragmatically and judiciously.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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

 

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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?”
  1. 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.
  1. 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.”
  1. 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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KUALA LUMPUR, 13 Nov (Bernama) — Perdana Menteri Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim meminta Nurul Ain Haron, warganegara Malaysia yang berada di kawasan konflik Gaza bersama suaminya warga Palestin Mohamed A.M Shaat, untuk menjelaskan situasi di Palestin kepada rakyat di negara ini sebaik pulang ke tanah air.

Dalam panggilan video bersama Nurul Ain dan suaminya, Anwar yang ketika ini berada di Makkah melahirkan rasa syukur, selepas Nurul Ain dan suaminya selamat dibawa keluar dari kawasan konflik itu melalui Lintasan Sempadan Rafah semalam.

“Insya-Allah kita akan terus membantu. Semalam saya pun tunggu (perkembangan) di Makkah ni, kita semua berdoa.

“Nanti dah sampai ke Malaysia rehat sekejap, kemudian terus bertugas untuk jelaskan (apa yang berlaku di Gaza kepada rakyat Malaysia). Kita doakan selamat berlepas ke Kuala Lumpur,” kata Anwar menerusi panggilan video yang berlangsung kira-kira lima minit.

Nurul Ain dan suaminya dijangka berlepas ke Malaysia malam ini.

Kementerian Luar dalam kenyataan hari ini memaklumkan Nurul Ain dan Mohamed selamat dibawa keluar melalui Lintasan Sempadan Rafah pada Ahad (12 Nov) pukul 8.23 malam waktu tempatan (2.23 pagi waktu Malaysia).

Anwar berkata usaha membawa keluar Nurul Ain dan suaminya merupakan hasil daripada pertemuannya dengan Presiden Mesir Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, semasa lawatan kerja beliau ke Mesir pada 23 Okt lepas.

Beliau turut mengucapkan terima kasih kepada Abdel Fattah yang mempermudahkan urusan membawa keluar rakyat Malaysia itu bersama suaminya.

“Tidak mudah tapi kita cuba sedaya upaya. Kita lakukan yang terbaik bercakap dengan (Presiden Turkiye Recep Tayyip) Erdogan, Abdel Fattah, Presiden Iran Ebrahim Raisi dan (Putera Mahkota Arab Saudi) Putera Mohammed Salman.

“Saya sedang lakukan yang terbaik bagi mendapatkan sokongan kuat bagi menghentikan pembunuhan, kekejaman oleh Israel. Semua ini sesuatu yang melampaui batas pemikiran manusia,” kata Anwar.

Sementara itu, Nurul Ain berterima kasih kepada Perdana Menteri dan kerajaan Malaysia kerana berusaha membawa beliau dan suami untuk keluar dari Gaza.

Menurut Nurul Ain pada awalnya beliau dan suami yang merupakan warga Palestin mahu terus tinggal di Gaza, namun akhirnya mengambil keputusan untuk meninggalkan kawasan bergolak itu disebabkan keadaan yang semakin meruncing.

“Alhamdulillah terima kasih kerana doa dan sokongan semua. Setakat ini, keluarga semua berada dalam keadaan baik,” katanya.

Nurul Ain juga berkongsi disebabkan suaminya merupakan pemegang pasport Palestin, perjalanan mereka berdua untuk keluar dari Gaza melalui Lintasan Sempadan Rafah bukanlah mudah dan terpaksa menunggu untuk tempoh yang lama.

Nurul Ain, 37, dilaporkan ke Gaza mengikuti suaminya, Mohamed, 33, pada 1 Okt lepas, selepas enam tahun berkahwin.

— BERNAMA

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KUALA LUMPUR, 12 Nov (Bernama) — Malaysia dan Iran bersedia untuk mempertingkatkan hubungan dua hala termasuk dalam bidang ekonomi, pendidikan, sains dan teknologi serta meneroka peluang kerjasama baharu, kata Perdana Menteri Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar yang juga Menteri Kewangan berkata perkara berkenaan dibincangkan dalam pertemuan bersama Presiden Iran Ebrahim Raisi sewaktu menghadiri Sidang Kemuncak Tergempar Pertubuhan Kerjasama Islam (OIC) ke-8 antara Negara-Negara Liga Arab dan Negara-Negara OIC di Riyadh, Arab Saudi.

Beliau berkata Presiden Iran menyambut baik langkah Malaysia untuk mempertingkat hubungan dua hala serta menyatakan Malaysia dan Iran sebagai dua negara yang berpengaruh, perlu memainkan peranan yang besar dalam dunia Islam.

“Dalam pertemuan ini, kami turut memanjangkan jemputan untuk mengadakan lawatan rasmi ke negara masing-masing.

“Saya juga mengulangi komitmen untuk mengadakan Mesyuarat Suruhanjaya Bersama (JCM) antara kedua-dua negara bagi memperhalusi pelbagai bidang kerjasama,” katanya menerusi satu hantaran di Facebook hari ini.

Pada 2022, jumlah perdagangan antara Malaysia dan Iran ialah sebanyak RM3.68 bilion, meningkat 40.2 peratus dari 2021 dengan kelapa sawit merupakan produk utama perdagangan antara kedua-dua negara.

Sementara itu, Anwar berkata pertemuan bersama Ebrahim Raisi turut membincangkan soal serangan dan kekejaman berterusan Zionis Israel terhadap Palestin.

Katanya kedua-dua negara sebulat suara bersetuju agar kekejaman oleh Israel terhadap Palestin perlu dihentikan segera.

“Kami juga mendukung segala usul yang dibawa oleh OIC termasuk paling penting proses gencatan senjata oleh Israel dilakukan serta-merta.

“Kami juga turut menggesa supaya bantuan kemanusiaan yang lebih banyak dibawa masuk ke Palestin bagi membantu mereka yang memerlukan dan mahukan OIC memainkan peranan yang lebih besar khususnya dalam melibatkan isu kemanusiaan sejagat,” kata Perdana Menteri.

— BERNAMA

 

NATIONAL STATEMENT

 

YAB DATO’ SERI ANWAR BIN IBRAHIM

PRIME MINISTER

 

AT THE JOINT

ARAB ISLAMIC EXTRAORDINARY SUMMIT

 

 

11 NOVEMBER 2023 (SATURDAY)

 

RIYADH, ARAB SAUDI

 

 

 

Alhamdulillah, Nahmaduhu Wa Nusalli Ala Rasoolilah Kareem.

 

Your Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al-Saud,

Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,

 

Your Majesties, Excellencies,

 

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.

 

  1. There are moments in history that shake us to our core and challenge our collective conscience. Moments that compel us to ask if our humanity still flickers; if we have the courage and wisdom to act. Such a moment has come with an ongoing Israeli onslaught on Palestine. Such a moment is now.

 

  1. I therefore applaud the initiative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to convene this Extraordinary Arab Islamic Summit, and the condemnation of the colonisation and atrocities of Israel; in Gaza and The West Bank.

 

  1. For over a month, the besieged people of Gaza have been subjected to the barbaric cruelties and genocide by Israeli forces, indiscriminately targeting men, women and children alike. Neither homes, hospitals, nor religious sanctuaries, Muslims or Christians, are safe from Israel’s indiscriminate attacks.

 

  1. This continuation of the politics of dispossession of the Palestinians is not taking place in the dead of the night; it is perpetrated in full view of the world in a flagrant breach of international law.

 

  1. The political class of western nations exhibit a selective myopia towards the turmoil in Palestine. Yet, we salute the collective conscience and the awakening of the people. A sea of change in awareness has taken root, as shown in mass demonstrations in unprecedented proportion throughout the world, including the western world, in support of Palestine.

 

  1. Ironically, in these capitals that herald free speech and human rights as a sacrosanct right, some authorities have denounced proponents of the Palestinian cause, maligning them as purveyors of hate speech and supporters of terrorism. This is perverse double standards writ large.

 

  1. In this pivotal moment, our collective voice; Arabs, Muslims, and those who aspire to defend freedom of all people, respective of race or creed, we stand to get stronger and we champion a shared purpose. Believe me, the ummah and the international community expects from this Conference tangible results and concrete actions.

 

Excellencies,

 

  1. With due humility, I call upon each of us to strategically employ our diplomatic channels and networks. In every dialogue and on every stage – be it bilateral or multilateral, regional or international – let us consistently and assertively call for the following in a concerted diplomatic campaign:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. It is imperative that we unite our voices in chorus so that our message stands a much greater chance of resonating and being heard.

 

  1. In closing, allow me to reaffirm Malaysia’s ironclad commitment to the Palestinian cause.

 

Thank you.

 

11-Nov-2023-NATIONAL-STATEMENT-BY-YAB-PM-AT-THE-JOINT-ARAB-ISLAMIC-EXTRAORDINARY-SUMMITDownload

 

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

YAB DATO’ SERI ANWAR BIN IBRAHIM

PRIME MINISTER

 

AT

 

THE MPOB INTERNATIONAL PALM OIL CONGRESS AND EXHIBITION (PIPOC 2023)

 

 

8 NOVEMBER 2023 (WEDNESDAY)

 

 

KUALA LUMPUR CONVENTION CENTRE (KLCC)

 

 

 

Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Taala Wabarakatuh dan Salam Sejahtera

Alhamdulillah, Nahmaduhu Wa Nusalli Ala Rasoolilah Kareem

 

 

Saudara YAB Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah Bin Haji Yusof,

Timbalan Perdana Menteri;

 

Saudara YB Datuk Seri Haji Mohamad Bin Sabu,

Menteri Pertanian dan Keterjaminan Makanan;

 

Menteri-menteri;

 

Keluarga besar MPOB;

 

Dan rakan-rakan yang saya muliakan.

 

 

 

  1. Persidangan dan pameran ini tentunya merupakan di antara acara yang bermakna kerana industri kelapa sawit ini adalah industri tunggak dalam pertumbuhan ekonomi negara selama sekian dekad dan kekuatannya serta pimpinannya itu berupaya untuk menangani cabaran-cabaran semasa.

 

 

  1. Sebab itu saya fikir apa yang disebut daya tahan, atau resilience yang menjadi tema pada tahun ini membantu kita dalam memahami keperluan mendesak industri ini. Saya hargai sumbangan Menteri dan Timbalan Perdana Menteri, YAB Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah Bin Haji Yusof yang mempunyai komitmen yang kuat bukan sahaja mengembangkan industri ini tetapi mendengar keluhan dan permohonan di semua peringkat pemain industri termasuk di peringkat rendah, pekebun kecil, industri besar dan menggabungkan kekuatan menghadapi tentangan dan sekatan terutamanya dari Eropah.

 

  1. Saya mengalu-alukan kerjasama dan tekad yang disuarakan juga oleh Presiden Indonesia, Ir. H. Joko Widodo (Jokowi) yang menggabung kekuatan dan disambut baik oleh YAB Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah Bin Haji Yusof yang telah berkunjung dan berbincang hal sedemikian. Saya berharap potensi ini dengan penyelidikan dan kegiatan dapat ditambah.

 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

  1. As I have alluded to earlier and well expounded by YAB Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah Bin Haji Yusof, who has a better grasp of the industry than me, the industry is one of the key drivers of the economy, providing employment to more than 3 million people along its supply chain, including half a million smallholders. The industry stands out as a robust cornerstone in the pursuit of the MADANI economy, propelling Malaysia towards its aspiration of becoming one of the world’s top 30 economies.

 

Distinguished Delegates,

 

  1. Globally, palm oil is the largest produced vegetable oil which accounts for 32% of the 246 million tonnes of global oils and fats in 2022. Global production of palm oil is expected to reach 81.44 million tonnes in 2023, increasing by almost 3%. This is achieved by using only about 6% of the total land used by oil crops. Palm oil is the most productive oil which yields at least 4 to 5 times more oil per hectare as compared to other vegetable oils. Malaysia takes pride as the world’s second largest palm oil producer, accounting for 31% of 87.39 million tonnes of palm oil produced globally in 2022, and 49% of the world’s palm oil exports. We managed to achieve this with only about 5.67 million hectares of planted area. This accounts for less than 2% of the total 312 million hectares of total area for oilseed crops production globally.

 

  1. Now, the overwhelming performance of the oil palm sector is also contributed by smallholders who account for 28% of the total area for palm oil production. Recognizing their vital role, I have announced the incentive for oil palm replanting programs with an allocation of RM100 million in the 2024 budget. I hope this incentive will enable smallholders to increase productivity by replanting old trees with new breeds.

 

  1. Now there is one thing that I would like to add. We are proposing the possible synergy of the more established, advanced, successful industry with the smallholders. It has begun by some of the major companies but I think that would render and assist in firstly the economic advancement of this country and secondly the welfare of the smallholders.

 

  1. I hope the MPOB and the Ministry would seriously consider this because relying totally on the smallholders and their capacity would certainly be more difficult because of the limitations in terms of research, understanding and the challenge of the industry generally.

 

  1. I would like to reiterate the point that with this initial grant of RM100 million, now with the support of the major players in the industry, I would certainly be able to consider the possibility of increasing on condition these companies do have some form of support and synergy with these smallholders. So it is always carrot and stick. I believe this is important.

 

  1. The second reason is because MADANI economy would require us to advance the welfare of society at large and we cannot continue to see this gross difference in inequality between the more successful companies and the relatively smaller ones which is huge in number and sometimes fall into the lower income bracket.

 

  1. Now advancing to other areas, I would take note of the fact that numerous studies have shown that palm oil is rich in phytonutrients and other beneficial components which can prevent and manage various non communicable diseases.

 

  1. As the world population hits the 10 billion mark by 2050, the demand for edible oils will increase tremendously. Palm oil remains a crucial factor in global food security. Apart from palm oil’s high yield, its long economic lifespan between 25 and 30 years, assures a reliable supply of palm oil to the world.

 

Excellencies and distinguished delegates and guests,

 

  1. Given this significant role in food production, Malaysian food manufacturers have assured that the palm oil use is safe. Now it is a growing ensuring battle which the Ministry is familiar and MPOB is actively pursuing this and I have alluded to earlier working with Indonesia and I am pleased that the new Prime Minister of Thailand, Prime Minister H.E. Srettha Thavisin has given me the assurance that Thailand will come on board to work together with Malaysia and Indonesia and hopefully other countries in presenting our case, particularly to the European Union (EU).

 

  1. I must say that in my recent meeting with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte who was here, he has given the assurance at least as the largest importer of palm oil in Europe that he would certainly show better understanding and empathy to the concerns of the industry, particularly the more advanced in terms of oil and palm oil production like Indonesia, Malaysia and now growing to be in Thailand. I, on behalf of the government, expressed my appreciation to the efforts of the Prime Pinister of Netherlands.

 

  1. Malaysian agrocommodity products, primarily palm oil, timber, cocoa and rubber exposed will also be subject to European Union Derorestation-free Regulation (EUDR), which is expected to take effect by January 2025. While we agree with the spirit behind this regulation, I mentioned to Premier Abang Johari yesterday that the huge campaign against the emission of carbon emission of peat soil in Sarawak that has been the past.

 

  1. You must commend the efforts, aggressive effort by Sarawak government to stop this and it is only, should I say, reasonable on the part of EU to recognize this and show some sort of appreciation and to not dict the problems of the past. I mean, they have taken this measure at the cost of. It is not something which is readily taken by governments because that was the practice in some areas in the past but the government had taken very aggressive, responsible measures and I think countries in Europe should show some appreciation and reciprocate by not necessarily supporting financially, but at least to give that recognition and therefore recognize the efforts by Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand in this regard and in their desire to continue with this reduction of carbon emission and etc, take into consideration of the problems of the emerging economies.

 

  1. Malaysia strongly believes sustainable production is the way forward the palm oil industry. Hence, we introduced a mandatory Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification scheme in 2015, revising the standards with the MSPO 2022, which focuses on transparency, safety and employment conditions, as well as environment, biodiversity and ecosystem protection. In this regard, I am pleased to state that almost 100% of the plantations and palm oil mills in Malaysia have been certified sustainable under the MSPO scheme.

 

  1. We are also committed to protecting its forests, flora and fauna through conservation and sustainable management. Malaysia pledged to maintain 50% of its landmass under forest cover at the 1992 Rio Earth summit and it is still intact. Meanwhile, the Food and Agriculture Organisation’s State of the World’s Forests (SOFO), attended by Minister YB Datuk Seri Haji Mohamad Bin Sabu, reported flagship since 1992, 22 countries, including Malaysia, have succeeded in raising national food security levels, while at the same time increasing the forest cover.

 

  1. The Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC) should play its roles effectively in communicating the importance of palm oil to the economy and the well-being of the producing countries.

 

Ladies and gentlemen,

 

  1. We have pioneered research in the oil palm sector and developed hundreds of breakthrough innovations upstream and downstream, leveraging on genomic insights to increase productivity. MPOB’s ground breaking work in decoding the oil palm genome in 2013 is the first reference oil palm genome in the world, which led to the discovery of SHELL, the single most important gene controlling yield.

 

  1. The GenomeSawit web portal developed by MPOB provides a platform to share the oil palm genome sequence data with the industry and the global scientific community. It is estimated that the DNA testing for SHELL on a national scale would increase palm oil production by more than 3 billion annually.

 

  1. Malaysia showcased numerous technologies for the oil palm plantations to match the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0). These include a system which will be launched today called Sawit Intelligence Management System or SIMS to facilitate transactional data management along the supply chain. SIMS aim to promote self-regulation, reduce government oversight and provide user friendly features, enhanced security and valuable decision making insights.

 

  1. The oil pump industry faces many future challenges including threats, trade issues and climate change. However, I am optimistic that we can overcome these challenges if we continue to work together in harnessing technological breakthrough and sustainable production.

 

  1. So thank you again to the organizers, the ministry, MPOB, and related agencies. Bismillahhirrahmannirrahim it is my great pleasure to declare the PIPOC 2023 officially open.

 

Terima Kasih.

 

8-Nov-2023-THE-MPOB-INTERNATIONAL-PALM-OIL-CONGRESS-AND-EXHIBITION-PIPOC-2023Download

 

NATIONAL STATEMENT

 

BY THE

HONOURABLE DATO’ SERI ANWAR IBRAHIM

PRIME MINISTER OF MALAYSIA

 

AT THE

8th EXTRAORDINARY ISLAMIC SUMMIT

  

11 NOVEMBER 2023 (SATURDAY)

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

 

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,

 

Your Majesties, Excellencies,

May the blessings and peace of Allah SWT be upon you.

 

  1. There are moments in history that shake us to our core and challenge our collective Moments that compel us to ask if our humanity still flickers; if we have the courage and wisdom to act. Such a moment has come with the ongoing Israeli onslaught on Palestine. Such a moment is now.
  1. I therefore applaud the initiative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to convene this Extraordinary Islamic Summit. The leadership of The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud along with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, has been pivotal in this effort.
  1. For it is time for us to move beyond just fuming in our outrage. For over a month, the besieged people of Gaza have been subjected to the barbaric cruelties of the Israeli forces, targeting men, women and children alike.
  1. Homes shattered, dreams tattered, Gaza has become a place where hunger goes unfed, the ailing untreated, and a pervasive terror haunts the day and night. Neither homes, hospitals, nor religious sanctuaries, Muslim or Christian, are safe from Israel’s indiscriminate attacks.
  1. These atrocities in Gaza must not be allowed to go on. Nor should the violence by heavily armed Israeli settlers towards Palestinians in the West Bank. This continuation of the politics of dispossession of the Palestinians is not taking place in the dead of the night; it is being perpetrated in full view of the world in a flagrant breach of international law.
  1. The brutal actions of the Zionist regime have defied even our bleakest fears. But Israel’s crimes have not unfolded in isolation; they have been enabled, tacitly or otherwise, by the complicity of Their support – diplomatic, military, economic – has given Israel a gaping window of impunity in their campaign of mass murder and destruction, a realisation of the wildest dreams of Israel’s religious extremists.
  2. The political class of these nations may exhibit a selective myopia toward the turmoil in Palestine, yet the collective conscience of their people is A sea change in awareness has taken root, as shown in mass demonstrations of unprecedented proportion in support of Palestine.
  1. Ironically, in these capitals that herald free speech as a sacrosanct right, some authorities have denounced proponents of the Palestinian cause, maligning them as purveyors of hate speech and supporters of terrorism. This is perverse double standards writ large.
  1. At the same time, these very same authorities seem to be utterly indifferent to the escalating tide of Islamophobia. Let us be clear: 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.
  1. In this pivotal moment, the collective voice of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s member states is crucial. We stand stronger when we champion a shared purpose.
  2. Our collective might is fortified by our numbers and diversity: 57 nations, each with unique strengths, strategic relationships, and memberships in various regional and international Imagine the transformative impact if even just half of us align our diplomatic efforts, echoing a unified script.
  1. With due humility, I call upon each member state of the OIC to strategically employ their diplomatic channels and networks. In every dialogue and on every stage – be it bilateral or multilateral, regional or international – let us consistently and assertively call for the following seven points in a concerted diplomatic campaign:
  1. It is imperative that we unite our voices in chorus so that our message stands a much greater chance of resonating and being heard.
  1. In closing, allow me to reaffirm Malaysia’s ironclad commitment to the Palestinian cause. The moment to make a difference is upon us, and Malaysia stands poised to take decisive action.
  1. Additionally, I feel compelled to reinforce my own unshakable commitment to the Palestinian people, cemented many years ago at the 1983 PLO conference in That conference left an indelible mark on me, as the late Yasser Arafat embraced me like a son.
  1. And so, to the Palestinian people, let me say: We hear you, we see your pain, and help is coming.

Thank you.

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