Press Release
If Foreign Policy is Befriending the Enemy, Then the Enemy's Visit Will Surely Be Welcomed!

The arrival of two Chinese warships in Penang has sparked ongoing questions and criticisms directed at the government. Before the situation cooled, Malaysia hosted a Russian warship at the same state. The visit of the 83rd Task Force of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), aboard the Qi Jiguang Training Ship and the Jinggang Shan Ship on October 5, has raised numerous questions. The government's delay in responding to this issue, along with explanations provided by some ministers, has not only failed to alleviate concerns but also led to increased inquisitiveness. Several ministers have explained that the presence of the vessels marks a visit commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia. Conversely, the Penang government stated that the two vessels anchored in Malaysia en route to Bangladesh before commencing their training exercises in the Indian Ocean.

Despite the government’s confirmation that the presence of the Chinese warships was made and approved through official channels, questions remain. For instance, why was Penang chosen as the visiting state, and why were only state leaders involved in the welcome ceremony rather than national leaders? Furthermore, why does the commemoration of 50 years of diplomatic relations appear to predominantly feature Malaysian Chinese participation? The Minister of Education confirmed that the visit was not conducted by the Chinese army but involved 165 cadets and lecturers from the Naval University of China. This raises further questions as to why they visited a Chinese private school instead of the National Defense University of Malaysia, which would have been more appropriate. Reports indicate that the two warships carried over a thousand crew members, leading to speculation about the identity of those who were not cadets—were they not part of the Chinese army itself? All these questions and concerns are valid and warrant transparent and rational responses from the government, as the public seeks clarity on whether this is an appropriate way for Malaysia and China to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Defense clarified that it is a standard procedure for foreign warships to dock in Malaysia as a "port of call." Numerous warships from various countries have been permitted to dock here as a result of the diplomatic relations established between Malaysia and those countries. While the government attempts to neutralize the implications of these visits and the presence of such vessels, this issue is not trivial from an Islamic viewpoint. In Islam, our relationships with other countries, especially those that are hostile to Islam, must be built not only on the principles of wisdom and vigilance but, most importantly, must comply with divine rules (Ahkaam Shar’iah) in respect of foreign policy.

We wish to remind the government of Malaysia that for countries categorized as al-Muharibah Fi'lan (belligerent countries that are practically at war with the Ummah), no form of relation is allowed other than war, and their citizens are not permitted to enter our country under any circumstances. For countries categorized as al-Muharibah Hukman (belligerent countries that are not practically at war with the Ummah), we must exercise caution. Establishing any diplomatic ties with them is not permissible. Notably, China and Russia fall into the category of al-Muharibah Hukman, exhibiting clear ambitions to control Islamic countries and the Ummah. While representatives or citizens from such countries may enter our territory with permission (visas and passports), it remains prohibited (Haram) to establish diplomatic relations with them.

It is unfortunate that Malaysia continues to maintain diplomatic ties with China (and also Russia), despite the proven atrocities and oppression perpetrated by that communist country against Uighur Muslims over decades. In addition to diplomatic relations, Malaysia has also established significant trade relations with China, making it the largest trading partner for the country. This reflects Malaysia's foreign policy towards China—fostering amicable relations with a country that is hostile to Muslims. The same can be observed in Malaysia's foreign policy towards Russia, India, the United States, and other belligerent countries, despite their clear antagonism towards Islam. Similar to other capitalist countries, Malaysia's international relationships are primarily driven by economic interests.

Recently, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed pride in Malaysia's friendships with all major countries from both the Western and Eastern blocs, highlighting the country's achievements in this area. Consequently, it is not surprising that Chinese warships were not only permitted to dock in Malaysia but were also received with a warm welcome! With what happened, it is therefore justifiable for the populace to express their criticism regarding the government's actions on this issue, reflecting their concerns and apprehensions about foreign interference in the country. However, as Muslims, it is essential to recognize that the issue extends beyond the mere presence or visit of the Chinese warships. It encompasses the longstanding diplomatic relationship that has been cultivated between Malaysia and China, a belligerent state that Malaysia, from the outset, should not have engaged with. We must remain vigilant against such states that harbor intentions to exert control over our country through various means. Furthermore, the visit of the Chinese cadet team to educational institutions in our country should not be taken lightly, as it mirrors the historical approach taken by missionaries to infiltrate the Islamic state (Caliphate), aiming to undermine and dominate the Caliphate through educational channels—a strategy that ultimately proved effective over time.

We hereby remind the government to abandon foreign policies that go against divine rules in order to prevent this country from falling prey to enemies that are constantly seeking opportunities to exert control over us. Simultaneously, we wish to remind the Muslim Ummah that a government that disregards divine rules offers no benefit, and is no longer worthy of leading the country. Malaysia will remain weak, stripped of its dignity and distanced from the mercy of Allah (swt), as long as His rules are disregarded in the government’s governance.

O Muslims! Know that Hizb ut Tahrir has been actively working since 1953, globally, to restore the Rightly Guided Caliphate (Khilafah Rashidah) on the Method of the Prophethood. This state shall be established on Islamic creed; it shall not compromise with, nor bow down to, enemies; it shall reinstate an Islamic foreign policy of spreading Da'wah and Jihad to belligerent countries; and it shall once again emerge as an unmatched superpower, Insha Allah.

Abdul Hakim Othman
Official Spokesperson of Hizb ut Tahrir
in Malaysia