Ankara: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim described the ongoing genocide in Gaza as a "test of our collective conscience" that demands action. Addressing the Shangri-La Dialogue, a key annual defense and security forum held in Singapore, Anwar highlighted the alarming rise in global armed conflicts, noting that the number of such conflicts is now at its highest since World War II, citing ongoing crises in Ukraine, Gaza, Myanmar, and Sudan.

According to Anadolu Agency, Anwar emphasized that the situation in Gaza requires more than mere sympathy, urging for consistency and actions to address the scale of devastation and the apparent defiance of humanitarian norms. He expressed concerns about the paralysis of institutions meant to uphold these norms.

Anwar also addressed the South China Sea dispute, expressing concern about the potential for escalation among claimant nations. He advocated for addressing the complex issues through steady and principled diplomacy, warning against provocation and escalation.

During the forum, Anwar met with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to discuss enhancing defense and maritime cooperation between the countries. He mentioned discussions about maritime security, asset modernization, and collaboration with local industries, highlighting opportunities for training and developing a robust Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) ecosystem.