Malaysia, a Southeast Asian country known for its vibrant culture, bustling cities, and beautiful landscapes, has generally maintained positive relationships with most countries around the globe. However, like any nation, Malaysia has faced its share of diplomatic challenges and disagreements. While the term "hate" might be too strong, there are certainly countries with whom Malaysia has experienced strained relations or significant points of contention. This article explores 15 such countries, delving into the historical, political, and economic factors that have contributed to these tensions. Understanding these complex dynamics provides valuable insights into Malaysia's foreign policy and its position in the international community.

1. Singapore

Singapore and Malaysia, two nations linked by history and geography, share a complex relationship marked by both cooperation and competition. Despite their close proximity and extensive economic ties, several issues have caused friction over the years. One of the most prominent is the water agreement. Singapore relies on Malaysia for a significant portion of its water supply, and the price of this water has been a long-standing point of contention. Malaysia has, at times, sought to increase the price, arguing that it is too low compared to current market rates, while Singapore has maintained that the agreement should be honored as originally negotiated. This disagreement has led to heated debates and strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Another source of tension is the competition between their economies. Both Singapore and Malaysia are key players in Southeast Asia, and they often vie for foreign investment and regional influence. This competition can sometimes spill over into political disagreements. Border disputes, while largely resolved, have also contributed to the occasional flare-up in tensions. The Pedra Branca dispute, which was settled by the International Court of Justice in favor of Singapore, was a particularly sensitive issue. Despite these challenges, it's important to remember that Singapore and Malaysia also share deep cultural and economic ties, with significant cooperation in areas like trade and tourism. The relationship is complex and multifaceted, characterized by both cooperation and competition.

2. Indonesia

Indonesia, Malaysia's closest neighbor and fellow member of ASEAN, has experienced a fluctuating relationship with Malaysia, punctuated by periods of cooperation and moments of tension. One of the most persistent issues has been the treatment of Indonesian migrant workers in Malaysia. Stories of exploitation, abuse, and unfair labor practices have often surfaced, causing public outcry in Indonesia and straining diplomatic ties. The Indonesian government has repeatedly called on Malaysia to improve the protection and welfare of its citizens working abroad, leading to ongoing negotiations and agreements aimed at addressing these concerns. These labor-related issues remain a sensitive topic in the relationship between the two countries.

Cultural and territorial disputes have also contributed to the tensions. Claims over shared cultural heritage, such as traditional songs and dances, have occasionally sparked controversy. Additionally, maritime border disputes, particularly in the waters around Borneo, have led to confrontations and disagreements over fishing rights and resource exploration. While both countries have made efforts to resolve these disputes through dialogue and negotiation, they remain a potential source of friction. The close proximity and shared cultural roots of Indonesia and Malaysia make these disputes particularly sensitive, requiring careful management to avoid escalation.

3. Philippines

The Philippines and Malaysia have a complex relationship, largely influenced by the issue of Sabah. Sabah, a state in Malaysia located on the island of Borneo, is claimed by the Philippines, who regard it as part of their historical territory. This territorial dispute has been a persistent source of tension between the two countries, hindering the development of a fully cooperative relationship. The Philippine government has never officially dropped its claim to Sabah, although it has taken a pragmatic approach in managing the issue. This ongoing dispute complicates diplomatic interactions and prevents deeper collaboration on other fronts.

Another factor affecting the relationship is the issue of Filipino migrants in Malaysia, particularly in Sabah. While many Filipinos have legally migrated to Malaysia for work, there are also concerns about undocumented migrants and the challenges they face. The management of these migrant populations, including issues related to their legal status, employment, and welfare, requires ongoing cooperation between the two countries. Despite these challenges, the Philippines and Malaysia also share common interests in areas such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, and regional economic integration, leading to cooperation in these fields.

4. Vietnam

Vietnam and Malaysia, both dynamic Southeast Asian nations, have a relationship that is generally positive, but it is not without its challenges. A primary source of tension is the overlapping claims in the South China Sea. Both countries, along with several other nations in the region, have competing claims to islands, reefs, and maritime areas in this strategically important waterway. These overlapping claims have led to occasional confrontations and disagreements over fishing rights, resource exploration, and maritime boundaries. While both Vietnam and Malaysia have expressed a commitment to resolving these disputes peacefully and in accordance with international law, the issue remains a potential source of friction.

Another factor influencing the relationship is the competition in certain economic sectors. Both Vietnam and Malaysia are major exporters of goods such as electronics, textiles, and agricultural products. This competition can sometimes lead to trade disputes and disagreements over market access. However, it is important to note that Vietnam and Malaysia also have significant economic cooperation, with growing trade and investment ties. Both countries are members of ASEAN and other regional economic groupings, which promote closer economic integration and cooperation.

5. Thailand

Thailand and Malaysia share a long and complex border, leading to various issues that affect their relationship. One of the most persistent challenges is the issue of cross-border crime, including smuggling, human trafficking, and drug trafficking. The porous border and the presence of criminal networks operating in both countries make it difficult to control these activities. Thai and Malaysian authorities have been working together to combat cross-border crime through joint operations, information sharing, and law enforcement cooperation, but the problem remains a significant challenge.

Another sensitive issue is the situation in southern Thailand, where there has been a long-running insurgency. Some elements within Malaysia have been accused of supporting or harboring insurgents, leading to tensions between the two countries. The Malaysian government has denied these allegations and has expressed its commitment to working with Thailand to address the situation peacefully. However, the issue remains a delicate one, requiring careful diplomacy and cooperation to avoid further escalation. Despite these challenges, Thailand and Malaysia also have strong economic and cultural ties, with significant trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.

6 - 15: Other Countries with Strained Relations

While the above nations represent some of the most prominent examples, several other countries have, at times, experienced strained relations with Malaysia due to various factors:

• Australia: Disagreements over policies on asylum seekers and refugees.
• United States: Differences in foreign policy and approaches to international conflicts.
• European Union: Concerns over human rights issues and labor practices.
• China: While generally positive, occasional tensions arise from South China Sea disputes.
• India: Trade disputes and competition in certain economic sectors.
• Myanmar: Concerns over the treatment of Rohingya refugees in Malaysia.
• Saudi Arabia: Differences in religious interpretation and political alignment.
• Israel: Malaysia does not recognize Israel, leading to a complete lack of diplomatic relations.
• North Korea: Diplomatic fallout after the assassination of Kim Jong-nam in Malaysia.
• United Kingdom: Lingering tensions from the colonial era and disagreements over certain policies.

It's important to note that these relationships are dynamic and can change over time. While disagreements may exist, Malaysia generally strives to maintain positive relations with all countries based on mutual respect and cooperation.

Conclusion

Malaysia's foreign relations are complex and multifaceted, influenced by a range of historical, political, economic, and cultural factors. While the country generally enjoys positive relationships with most nations, there are instances of strained relations and disagreements. These tensions often stem from issues such as territorial disputes, treatment of migrant workers, overlapping maritime claims, and differences in political ideologies. Understanding these challenges is crucial for comprehending Malaysia's role in the international community and its approach to foreign policy. By addressing these issues through dialogue, negotiation, and cooperation, Malaysia can continue to foster positive relationships with its neighbors and the wider world.