Putrajaya, El Sky News — Former Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has once again launched a strong political attack on the administration of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, accusing him of “selling out the Malaysian people to the United States” through foreign policy decisions and bilateral engagements that Mahathir claims favor Washington’s interests.
The remarks were made in a series of public statements and media interviews throughout December 2025, amid growing scrutiny over Malaysia’s increasingly close diplomatic and economic ties with the United States, particularly in the areas of trade, investment, and strategic cooperation.
Mahathir’s Claims: A Threat to National Sovereignty
Mahathir argued that Anwar’s approach to strengthening relations with the US risks undermining Malaysia’s national sovereignty, especially in economic and policy decision-making. He questioned the long-term implications of several bilateral agreements and commitments, warning that excessive alignment with a major power could restrict Malaysia’s ability to act independently on the global stage.
Using strong language, Mahathir described the situation as “mortgaging the people’s interests,” framing his criticism as a warning against what he sees as undue foreign influence over national policies.
A Longstanding Political Rivalry
Political analysts note that Mahathir’s accusations must also be viewed within the context of a decades-long and complex rivalry between the two leaders. Once political allies, Mahathir and Anwar have since become central figures representing contrasting visions of governance and international engagement in Malaysia.
While Mahathir emphasizes a more protectionist and sovereignty-focused stance, Anwar has promoted a pragmatic diplomatic approach aimed at economic recovery and global engagement.
Government Response and Anwar’s Position
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has firmly rejected claims that his government has compromised Malaysia’s sovereignty. He has repeatedly stated that Malaysia maintains an independent foreign policy, free from domination by any global power, including the United States.
The government has stressed that all international agreements are conducted within Malaysia’s legal framework and institutional processes, and that cooperation with the US does not come at the expense of relationships with other major partners such as China, ASEAN member states, and the Global South.
Public Reaction and Expert Views
Mahathir’s statements have sparked widespread debate among the public and across social media platforms. Supporters argue that his warnings highlight legitimate concerns about national independence, while critics say the accusations are politically motivated and lack concrete evidence.
Political observers suggest the controversy reflects a broader ideological divide over how Malaysia should navigate global geopolitics during a period of economic uncertainty and heightened international competition.
Malaysia–US Relations in a Global Context
As geopolitical tensions continue worldwide, Malaysia has sought to balance its relationships with multiple global powers. The Anwar administration views international cooperation as essential for economic stability and growth, while critics like Mahathir continue to urge caution against perceived overreliance on any single country.
Mahathir Mohamad’s claim that Anwar Ibrahim has “sold out the people to the United States” has intensified political discourse in Malaysia toward the end of 2025. Although the government has strongly denied the allegations, the debate underscores how foreign policy remains a sensitive and polarizing issue in Malaysian politics.
Moving forward, analysts note that transparency and public communication will be crucial to maintaining public trust and ensuring that international cooperation clearly serves the interests of the Malaysian people.
(Lunar)
