DON’T USE VIOLENCE, PM URGES

Sabre-rattling will only lead to unimaginable catastrophe, says Najib

ALTERNATIVE options, besides a show of force, should be considered to address rising tensions in the Korean Peninsula.

“Sabre-rattling, or nuclear rattling, is not a good thing to do. It will only lead to a huge and unimaginable catastrophe,” Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said.

Speaking to the Malaysian media at the conclusion of the 30th Asean Leaders’ Summit here, he said perhaps China could influence North Korea to “change its belligerent position”, or at least stop firing ballistic missiles.

North Korea recently conducted nuclear tests and fired ballistic missiles in defiance of criticisms levelled against it.

North Korean leader Kim Jongun, meanwhile, has goaded United States President Donald Trump with threats after the US sent navy ships to the Korean Peninsula.

“We should find ways to reduce tensions,” Najib said, adding that Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was also very concerned about developments in the region.

“He seemed to be labouring on it,” Najib said. “At one point, he said see you in November... if there is a November.”

In the chairman’s statement issued at the summit’s end, the leaders expressed “grave concern” over North Korea’s actions, which could affect peace and stability in the entire region.

“We urge the DPRK to immediately comply fully with its obligations arising from all relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and stressed the importance of exercising self-restraint in the interest of maintaining peace, security and stability in the region and the world.

“We reiterate our full support for the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula, and for concerned parties to explore all avenues for immediate dialogue.”

On other security issues, Najib said Asean leaders reiterated their strong condemnation of terrorism and violent extremism in all forms and manifestations.

“Malaysia’s contributions, which include deradicalisation programmes and the Digital Counter-Messaging Centre, can support Asean countries to combat the influence of militants and violent extremism,” he added.