Hubungan Normalisasi Malaysia dengan China: Hujahan Realisme Neoklasik dalam Menganalisis Keputusan Tun Abdul Razak (Malaysia’s Normalization of Relations With China: A Neoclassical Realist Explanation of Tun Abdul Razak’s Decision)

Abstract

This article analyses the changes in Malaysia’s foreign policy towards China during the Abdul Razak era from animosity to the normalisation of relations. Three questions are highlighted in this research; first, what are the factors that influence the changes in Malaysia’s foreign policy towards China; second, how the three levels of analysis structure Malaysia’s foreign policy towards China and third, to what extent the established relationship has an impact on the national interests of the two countries. The arguments of these three factors are analysed through three stages namely the international structure, domestic changes and the role of leaders. The neoclassical realism theory is applied in analyzing the structuring of Malaysia’s foreign policy towards China during the Abdul Razak era. This research applies a qualitative method of obtaining primary data through structured interviews with key informants; an analytical method based on chronology; and supported with empirical evidence from the secondary data. Overall, this research concludes that harmony interest and ping-pong diplomacy influenced the changes in Malaysia’s foreign policy towards China. Although the two countries are suspicious of one another in diplomatic relations, there was an increase in comprehensive cooperation through trade and political aspects.