Malaysia diversifies trade strategy amid Palestine stance, issues Middle East travel advisory

MALAYSIA has drawn up diversified trade strategies to shield its economy from potential external pressure arising from its outspoken advocacy of the Palestinian cause, as the Foreign Ministry issued fresh travel advisories amid escalating tensions in West Asia.

Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said the government is prepared for any economic or political repercussions stemming from Malaysia’s firm position on humanitarian issues in Palestine.

"We will ensure Wisma Putra plays its role to maintain strong diplomatic relations with other countries to balance any pressure. We also have a very good trade strategy," he said during oral question time in the Dewan Negara.

He was responding to concerns raised by Senator Datuk Prof Emeritus Dr Mohammad Redzuan Othman over the possibility of efforts to undermine Malaysia’s economy and political stability because of its vocal stance on developments in the West Bank and Gaza.

The senator cited Turkiye as an example, noting the sharp depreciation of the lira against the ringgit over the past decade following Ankara’s forthright position on Palestine.

Lukanisman stressed that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s standing as a respected global figure with wide international influence is a significant asset in strengthening Malaysia’s economic diplomacy.

He said the Foreign Ministry would continue working closely with the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry to monitor and safeguard national economic interests against any attempts at sabotage or external sanctions.

Malaysia, he added, would not participate in certain externally driven initiatives such as a proposed Security Board, arguing that such mechanisms fail to address the root causes of the conflict, including Israel’s illegal occupation of Palestinian territories.

On the diplomatic front, Lukanisman said Malaysia remains actively engaged at multiple international platforms, including the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, pressing for a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire despite a truce agreed last October.

He gave assurance that the government would continue to strengthen collective diplomatic pressure through the OIC and international partners.

Meanwhile, Wisma Putra said the safety and welfare of Malaysians abroad remain its utmost priority as regional tensions intensify.

In a statement, the ministry advised Malaysians to defer all non-essential travel to Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.

"The official travel advisory issued by the Foreign Ministry remains in force until further notice," it said.

The ministry noted that authorities in the United Arab Emirates have announced the opening of designated safe air corridors. Malaysia Aviation Group has also announced a temporary resumption of flights to and from Jeddah and Madinah from today until Sunday.

Malaysia’s embassy in Abu Dhabi and consulate-general in Dubai are in contact with Malaysians affected by flight disruptions, particularly those awaiting onward travel arrangements.

Consular officers are conducting welfare assessments, prioritising individuals facing extended transit periods or temporary accommodation issues.

In Saudi Arabia, the consulate-general in Jeddah is monitoring the situation involving Malaysian umrah pilgrims affected by travel disruptions.

Diplomatic missions in Oman, Qatar and Bahrain are also tracking Malaysians impacted by regional airspace closures, including those in transit.

In other affected countries such as Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria, Malaysian missions remain in close contact with registered citizens, including students.

"Malaysians who have communicated with our missions are reported safe and have been advised to remain vigilant and comply with local authorities’ guidance," the ministry said.

Wisma Putra added that it continues updating records of Malaysians in the affected region through its e-Konsular system and is coordinating with the Higher Education Ministry to monitor the welfare of students.

Malaysians requiring consular assistance have been urged to contact the nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission. Wisma Putra’s operations room in Putrajaya remains fully activated around the clock to provide further assistance if needed. - March 4, 2026