FOREIGN MINISTRY RELEASES STRATEGIC PLAN, SEEKS

UNCLAS KUALA LUMPUR 000059 SIPDIS SENSITIVE FOR EAP/MTS AND INR E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL PGOV PHUM ETRD MY SUBJECT: FOREIGN MINISTRY RELEASES STRATEGIC PLAN, SEEKS "ENHANCED" U.S. TIES ¶1. (U) Malaysia's Foreign Ministry summoned representatives from all foreign missions on January 29 in order to formally announce its Strategic Plan for 2009-2015, the first time the Ministry has made public such a document. The strategic plan, which was required of all ministries by the Prime Minister's office in 2006, describes in very general terms the MFA's foreign policy foundations and priorities, and presents the Ministry's organizational structure. The public document appears designed primarily for presentation to the domestic audience. The new document does not contain any significant changes in Malaysia's foreign policy. EconCouns attended the presentation on behalf of the Embassy. We will forward a copy of the strategic plan to EAP/MTS. ¶2. (SBU) The plan gives prominent attention to Malaysia's participation in ASEAN, NAM and OIC. It places a predominant emphasis on trade and investment in its treatment of all regions and mentioned countries. The U.S. attracts one-half page mention in 140-page strategic plan, noting that "Malaysia is looking forward to enhancing its bilateral relations and cooperation with the U.S." under the new U.S. Administration. The plan touches on Malaysia's "close bilateral ties" with Iran with brief reference to economic interests and high level visits. Oddly, there is no mention of Palestine or Israel or Middle East peace anywhere in the document despite Malaysia's frequent rhetorical focus on the Palestine issue. The plan also puts forward the Ministry's view of human rights based on an "Asian value system." ¶3. (U) The strategic plan's text discussing the U.S. reads as follows: "The U.S. offers immense potential for trade and investment. Efforts will be made to promote Malaysia as an excellent trade and investment destination. Despite differences on a number of issues, ties between both countries will continue to be of special significance. Albeit, the U.S. is the third most important trading and business partner of Malaysia with Malaysian exports exceeding U.S. $25 billion per annum. Malaysia will continue to engage the U.S. diplomatically to reduce friction and promote dialogue and understanding. Efforts will be made to promote high-level visits from the U.S. and vice versa. The initiative is to ensure Malaysia's views are well articulated in the U.S. Malaysia is looking forward to enhancing its bilateral relations and cooperation with the U.S. under the new Democratic administration headed by Mr. Barack Obama." End text. KEITH