China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed comments by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirming his stance on the “One-China” principle during a recent interview with international news outlet Al Jazeera.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated during a regular press briefing on Wednesday that Beijing appreciates Anwar’s explicit comments regarding Taiwan’s status.
During the televised interview, Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s long-standing diplomatic position on Taiwan.
“I see Taiwan as part of China, period. It is one China. It is accepted by all,” Anwar said during the interview.
When questioned about Beijing reserving the right to use force if peaceful reunification with Taiwan fails, Anwar drew a parallel to Malaysia’s own national integrity. He noted that if any region within Malaysia attempted to secede, it would be his fundamental duty as Prime Minister to defend the nation’s territorial unity.
When asked by the host if he would deploy military force under such a scenario, Anwar responded affirmatively, emphasising that failing to do so would leave the country fragmented.
In response to the interview, Lin Jian underscored that commitment to the One-China principle remains a broad international consensus.
“Upholding the one-China principle reflects popular sentiment and stands on the side of what is right; moreover, the international community’s commitment to the one-China principle is unshakable,” Lin told reporters.
“There is but one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory,” Lin added, framing China’s eventual reunification as an unstoppable process.
Malaysia established official diplomatic ties with the People’s Republic of China on May 31, 1974. Under the original joint communique, Putrajaya formally recognised the government in Beijing as the sole legal representative of China, acknowledging its position that Taiwan forms an integral part of Chinese territory. During the ASEAN Summit in 2025, Malaysia hosted President Xi Jinping with China as a special guest but did extend any formal invitation for Taiwan to participate in acknowledgement of the One China principal.
While Malaysia maintains significant trade, investment, and cultural ties with Taiwan, Putrajaya has consistently adhered to its “One-China” framework across successive administrations.
