Malaysia announced today, Tuesday, November 7, 2023, that it will not recognize unilateral sanctions under a proposed American law to impose sanctions on foreign supporters of armed groups in Palestine.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said in a parliamentary response that the proposed bill would not affect Malaysia unless it is proven that it provides financial support to Hamas or Islamic Jihad.

He also added, "Any sanctions on Malaysia could also affect the assessment of the government and American companies towards Malaysia, as well as investment opportunities for American companies in Malaysia."

He pointed out that the government will continue to monitor developments regarding the approval of the bill aimed at cutting off international funding for Hamas and other armed groups.

Anwar Ibrahim also previously rejected Western pressure to condemn Hamas, saying that the United States expressed its concerns to Malaysia about its stance on Palestine.