Malaysian PM Objects to Norway's Revocation of NSM Missile Export Licence

Kuala Lumpur (ANTARA) - Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has voiced objections to Norway’s revocation of the export licence for the anti-ship missile (Naval Strike Missile/NSM). The objections were conveyed directly by Anwar to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre via a telephone conversation, as stated by Anwar on Facebook and quoted in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday (14/5). “I have conveyed Malaysia’s strong objections in a telephone conversation with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre regarding Norway’s unilateral and unacceptable decision to revoke the export licence for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) system along with its launchers, under the pretext of protecting Norway’s security,” said Anwar. Anwar emphasised that Malaysia has meticulously fulfilled all obligations under the contract since 2018 in good faith. “However, it appears that Norway does not feel the need to demonstrate the same attitude towards us or uphold that good faith,” he asserted. According to Anwar, Norway’s action will have serious implications for Malaysia’s defence operational readiness and the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) modernisation programme. He also assessed that the step could have broader impacts on regional balance. “A contract is not confetti to be scattered arbitrarily. If European defence suppliers feel entitled to renege on commitments without consequences, their value as strategic partners will simply vanish,” Anwar stated.