The elevation of relations between Asean and European Union to “strategic partnership” status should be deferred with the ongoing trade dispute over palm oil, says Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah.

According to Saifuddin, labelling palm oil a threat is “unfair,” as Malaysia has over 60 laws and regulations that cover wildlife and environmental protection, in addition to emphasising worker safety and welfare.

“That’s why it is unfair to generalise Malaysian palm oil as being a threat to the environment, and in opposition to the (UN Sustainable Development Goals), which we have incorporated into our (Pakatan Harapan's) manifesto, the 11th Malaysia Plan, and our Foreign Policy Framework, among others...