MALAYSIA'S foreign policy in 2024 demonstrated strategic agility and deep commitment to core principles.
Under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the nation pursued a pragmatic approach that balanced economic diplomacy with moral advocacy, while positioning itself as a key player in regional and global affairs.
Economic diplomacy took centre stage, reflecting a broader strategy to strengthen economic resilience.
Bilateral trade with China reached a record US$49.53 billion in the first half of the year, reaffirming its status as Malaysia's largest trading partner.
Similarly, bilateral trade with South Korea climbed to US$17.63 billion by the end of the third quarter.
At the 9th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Malaysia shifted its attention to Russia, focusing discussions on critical areas, such as food security, aerospace and sustainable energy.
These talks were set against a backdrop of a 15.6 per cent year-on-year increase in bilateral trade, underscoring the potential of Malaysian-Russian relations.
Malaysia's foreign policy was also marked by a vigorous and unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause.
This was shown by Anwar's outspoken advocacy at various international platforms, including the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit in Riyadh.
The support for Palestine introduced complexities in Malaysia's diplomatic relations, particularly with Western nations that maintain strong ties with Israel.
Israel's documented actions and the subsequent criticism by the International Criminal Court, Amnesty International and others supported Malaysia's position on the issue.
Indeed, Malaysia's advocacy for Palestine demonstrated a willingness to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes to uphold our principles.
Our most notable regional moves in 2024 was active participation in an informal Asean consultation on Myanmar, held in Bangkok in December.
Malaysia's pragmatic stand to drive the Five Point Consensus, particularly advocating for humanitarian aid and inclusive dialogue, showcased its leadership.
It has shown a nuanced grasp of Asean's structural weaknesses.
The true test of Malaysia's leadership will come as it assumes the Asean chairmanship in 2025, but it has certainly laid solid groundwork in 2024.
Malaysia's foreign policy approach has been characterised by cautious pragmatism.
While economic ties with China deepened, the government was careful not to overly align itself with Beijing.
This balance was evident in Malaysia's consistent engagement with Western powers, including with the United States on security and technological initiatives.
This balancing act has enabled Malaysia to preserve its autonomy, a hallmark of Anwar's foreign policy in 2024.
A notable hallmark was the rise of Anwar's personal diplomacy, which added a dynamic and unconventional dimension to the nation's international engagements.
His approach reflects a more personalised style that leans on building relationships with key regional and global figures, but also responds to the evolving realities of diplomacy in the 21st century.
This is evident in his engagements in Asean capitals.
Rather than adhering to institutional channels, he has relied on a network of informal advisers, including former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
This approach diverges from the traditional reliance on bureaucratic expertise, which might prompt Malaysia's foreign policy apparatus to rethink its role and adapt to this evolving reality.
However, it also raises questions about the long-term implications for Malaysia's foreign policy infrastructure.
As the country prepares for its Asean chairmanship, the government will need to ensure that the institutional framework remains robust and capable of supporting Anwar's ambitious diplomatic vision.
By blending his charisma and network with Malaysia's strategic interests, he has redefined the country's foreign policy approach, positioning it to navigate an increasingly interconnected world in a year marked by shifting power dynamics and regional challenges.
As 2024 draws to a close, Malaysia's foreign policy under Anwar stands out as a calculated blend of pragmatism and principle, solidifying Malaysia's reputation as a key player in Southeast Asia and beyond.
The writer is an administrative and diplomatic officer and a Khazanah-OXCIS scholar with an MSt in diplomatic studies from Kellogg College, University of Oxford
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times