Petaling Jaya – PKR Deputy President Nurul Izzah Anwar has criticised Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan over his recent remarks on the Strait of Hormuz, describing his position as narrow and misaligned with regional diplomatic principles.
In a media statement issued on Wednesday, the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Deputy President said Balakrishnan’s refusal to consider engagement with Iran on ensuring safe passage through the strategic waterway reflected a limited strategic outlook.
She argued that such a stance prioritised alignment with external powers over regional responsibility and adherence to international law.
Nurul Izzah also claimed that Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz were linked to broader geopolitical tensions, including conflicts involving the United States and Israel, which she said had resulted in significant civilian and infrastructure losses.
She reaffirmed Malaysia’s longstanding position that diplomacy remains essential in resolving international disputes, highlighting efforts by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to engage constructively on the issue.
“Diplomacy must be exercised, not abandoned,” she said, adding that Malaysia’s approach is aimed at safeguarding regional stability, energy security, and the wider interests of Southeast Asia.
The statement further suggested that Balakrishnan’s position appeared to reflect the strategic preferences of external powers, which PKR warned could undermine ASEAN’s commitment to independent and balanced diplomacy.
“Malaysia will not be lectured on the merits of engagement,” Nurul Izzah said, stressing that disengagement could lead to further escalation rather than stability.
She added that Malaysia would continue to pursue diplomacy with “clarity, conviction, and independence,” while calling for greater efforts to promote dialogue amid rising global tensions.
–Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris
