Malaysia's foreign policy: a perspective from relaism to constructivisme

Abstract

The discourse on Malaysia's foreign policy has been centered on the practical and empirical dimension for quite sometime since independence in 1957. Published scholarly studies that discuss this agenda from a theoretical point of view are very few indeed. In addition, writings on foreign policy theories too have been mainly focusing on super powers, great powers, Europe and so on for ideas pertaining to theoretical debates and discussion. Smaller countries are hardly found on the radar of foreign policy theories and its related discourse.Malaysia is an active player in the foreign policy scene be it at regional or even the global level for that matter. Many of the role played by Malaysia is globally recognize, especially so on issues and the interests of the developing countries and the Islamic world. Similarly, Malaysia's influence on neutrality for Southeast Asia and its active role NAM warrants attention too. Amidst these priorities, Malaysia pursues its national interest in various ways. At times, it behaves in line with the realist agenda. On occasion, it appears somewhat promoting the agenda focused by constructivism. This paper will highlight and examine Malaysia foreign policy from both the realist and constructivist theoretical positions. It will also provide some critical discussion on how contending theories of foreign policy appear useful to investigate the Malaysian context.