Zahid Urges Legal And Diplomatic Action Against Norway Over Cancelled Missile Deal

MERSING, July 9 (Bernama) -- Malaysia should take firm legal and diplomatic action against Norway following its decision to revoke the export licence for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) system meant for the Royal Malaysian Navy’s new Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) vessels, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.

He described the move as unethical, noting that the procurement had been conducted through an open tender process and followed a comprehensive technical evaluation.

“We have no intention of attacking any country. Our defence system is purely for self-defence, and Malaysia should not be penalised by the suspension of the missile supply under these circumstances,” he told reporters after a meet-and-greet event with the Endau community here today.

Ahmad Zahid was commenting on the government’s decision to halt all future defence procurement and military contracts with Norway.

He said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should pursue longer-term measures rather than merely issuing a diplomatic protest, even if Norway had acted under pressure from another party to stop the export.

Asked whether stronger action could affect Malaysia-Norway bilateral ties, Ahmad Zahid said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had already undertaken diplomatic efforts by contacting his Norwegian counterpart.

“Our side has made every effort, but the country is afraid of another party. That is Malaysia's disappointment, and therefore decisive action must be taken,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid said the government would also consider halting purchases of Norwegian goods and supplies.

“This is the government's official stance. As such, purchases of goods and supplies from Norway should also be reviewed with a view to stopping them.

“This is also intended to send a clear message that Malaysia should never be underestimated. Although we are relatively small, we are a sovereign nation with dignity,” he said.

Earlier, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the government's decision to discontinue future procurement and contracts with Norway was justified because the country had failed to show respect for Malaysia.

In fact, he said the Cabinet had also endorsed the Ministry of Defence's recommendation to stop procuring defence assets from Norway, and is now considering whether the policy should be extended to other ministries, although it currently applies only to the Ministry of Defence.

-- BERNAMA