Close ties bring benefits beyond diplomacy

The search for missing Malaysians in Nepal's Rasuwa district, struck by devastating flash floods, is primarily a humanitarian crisis. Families require information, while Malaysian officials face damaged infrastructure, disrupted communications, and challenging terrain. Beyond the immediate rescue, the disaster highlights the importance of Malaysia's relations with Nepal, China, and India.

These ties are not merely about trade, investments, or diplomatic visits; during emergencies, they can provide practical channels for information, coordination, and assistance. Nepal, as Malaysia's most crucial partner in locating missing persons, has authorities with the necessary knowledge to determine where foreign travelers were last seen and where rescue efforts should be focused.

China, Malaysia's largest trading partner, possesses significant transportation infrastructure, satellite capabilities, emergency-response resources, and administrative networks in the region. India, with its long open border and extensive experience in Himalayan conditions, also offers substantial logistical and humanitarian capabilities.

The disaster underscores that strategic autonomy does not mean remaining distant from major powers or neutrality. Instead, it means maintaining sufficient diplomatic room to cooperate with different countries based on Malaysia's interests and circumstances. Strong diplomatic ties with Nepal, India, and China can complement each other during emergencies, ensuring Malaysia's interests are served.

This lesson extends to Southeast Asia, where smaller and middle powers should resist unnecessary binary choices amid US-China competition, India's rise, and growing geopolitical fragmentation. Malaysia's foreign policy should focus on cultivating many friendships while preserving strategic autonomy, ensuring a broad network of trusted relationships to navigate geopolitical complexities when needed.