Supporting Palestine unlikely to harm Malaysia's economy - Former MP

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia’s economy is unlikely to face significant repercussions if it chooses to take a strong stance in support of Palestine.

Former Batu MP Chua Tian Chang or better known as Tian Chua said Malaysia has consistently shown creativity and adaptability to use its economic influence for change and could apply a similar approach in this case.

"For instance, the government could establish an investment advisory body, similar to the Halal Professional Board (HPB), dedicated to identifying and managing investments that align with our values.

"Government-linked companies could also implement an additional layer of scrutiny, preventing investments that directly support US or Israeli interests tied to conflict," he said at the Conference on Palestine: Exploring Asian Perspective held at Universiti Malaya on Monday.

The former PKR vice-president suggested that Malaysia could gradually divest from certain entities, reducing reliance while shifting towards alternative investments.

He added that prioritising companies with values aligned to Malaysia’s would allow for a strategic, selective divestment process that maintains market stability.

"Many countries would likely welcome this decision, potentially directing more of their own investment opportunities towards Malaysia. Such moves would not destabilise our capital market; rather, they would make it more resilient and aligned with our principles.

"Malaysia, with its mature market economy, could also influence Asean to take similar steps, using market forces to lessen dependency on investments from entities complicit in injustices abroad.

"There is no need to label such measures as "radical", we often aim too high and label bold steps as unattainable.

"Instead, starting with small, strategic moves can send a strong message and contribute meaningfully to the Palestinian cause and I believe that it will deliver a strong impact," he added.