KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisations (MAPIM) has criticised a group of United States lawmakers for urging Malaysia to reverse its policy on Israeli nationals, describing the move as interference in the country’s sovereign affairs.
MAPIM president Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid said the reported demand by eight US congressmen for Malaysia to change its position within 15 days, coupled with calls to review bilateral security and economic cooperation, amounted to political pressure rather than diplomacy.
“The right to regulate the entry of foreign nationals is a basic attribute of state sovereignty. Malaysia has the sovereign authority to determine its own immigration and foreign policies without external interference,” he said in a statement on Thursday (July 23).
The lawmakers had reportedly written to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, calling for Malaysia’s policy to be reviewed and suggesting the possible suspension of International Military Education and Training (IMET) funding.
Mohd Azmi rejected allegations that Malaysia’s policy was antisemitic, saying the country’s position concerns Israeli nationals rather than Jewish people.
“There is a fundamental difference between Judaism, Jewish identity, Israeli citizenship, Zionism and the policies of the Israeli government. Opposition to Israel’s policies or restrictions involving Israeli passport holders should not automatically be equated with hatred of Jews,” he said.
He added that Malaysia’s policy reflects its long-standing position of having no diplomatic relations with Israel and does not target individuals based on their religion or ethnicity.
Mohd Azmi also dismissed allegations linking Malaysia to terrorism, including claims that Hamas fighters had trained in the country, saying such accusations should be backed by credible and publicly verifiable evidence.
He said Malaysia supports the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and maintains that engagement with Palestinian representatives should not be interpreted as support for terrorism.
Calling on Putrajaya to stand firm, Mohd Azmi said Malaysia should reject any ultimatum from foreign lawmakers while continuing to oppose antisemitism, Islamophobia, racism and all forms of religious hatred.
“Malaysia values constructive relations with the United States based on mutual respect. However, friendship does not give any country the right to dictate Malaysia’s sovereign decisions on immigration or foreign policy,” he said. – DETIK MALAYSIA
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