PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today called on all parties to exercise caution and respect in public discourse regarding the Malaysia–Indonesia border alignment, warning that offensive remarks could jeopardise the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
Speaking during a Special Briefing Session in Parliament on the Malaysia–Indonesia border issue, Anwar emphasised that differences of opinion could be expressed, but should not insult or undermine Indonesia, Malaysia’s diplomatic partner since 1974.
"We must safeguard our relationship with Indonesia, which has been exceptionally strong since 1974. Negotiations on the border are ongoing at all levels," he said.
"Cooperation, from junior officials to ministers and Prime Ministers on both sides, has always been very good. We can have differences of opinion, but we must not pass judgement or offend our friends in Indonesia, who are working hard to maintain a close and cordial relationship between our countries."
The Prime Minister’s remarks came in response to opposition MPs who, according to him, had made disrespectful and inflammatory statements during the session.
Anwar firmly rejected claims that he had betrayed the nation over the border issue, urging parliamentarians to ask questions if uncertain, rather than resort to insults.
"I hope fellow MPs who have been making offensive and disrespectful statements… if you do not know, ask, but do not hurl insults," he said.
Tensions in the Dewan Rakyat escalated when Datuk Rosol Wahid (PN-Hulu Terengganu) cited Standing Order 36(12), contending that Anwar’s allegations against opposition MPs were unparliamentary.
Several other opposition members, including Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin (PN-Larut), Wan Ahmad Fayshal Wan Ahmad Kamal (PN-Machang) and Datuk Awang Hashim (PN-Pendang), also voiced objections, rejecting the Prime Minister’s claims.
The session highlighted the delicate balance Malaysia faces in addressing border negotiations while maintaining respectful dialogue with both domestic political actors and its Indonesian counterparts. - February 4, 2026
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