His remarks have been framed by some as an endorsement of Beijing using force to unify Taiwan. That interpretation, however, misreads both the letter and the spirit of his words.
Let me be clear from the outset: I am a friend of Taiwan. I deeply respect the Taiwanese people’s desire to preserve their way of life, and I would be devastated to see their society and economy ravaged by war. I wish to see peace and prosperity continue to prevail over the beautiful island.
Malaysia and Taiwan share generations of cultural and economic ties that I hope will flourish indefinitely, regardless of diplomatic status.
I do not speak for the prime minister nor for the Malaysian government. But I believe...