Kuala lumpur: Malaysia should take firm legal and diplomatic action against Norway following its decision to revoke the export licence for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) system meant for the Royal Malaysian Navy's new Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) vessels, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said. He described the move as unethical, noting that the procurement had been conducted through an open tender process and followed a comprehensive technical evaluation.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid emphasized that Malaysia's defence system is purely for self-defence and expressed disappointment over the suspension of the missile supply. He stated that Malaysia should not be penalised under these circumstances and mentioned that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should pursue longer-term measures beyond a diplomatic protest, even if Norway acted under external pressure.

Ahmad Zahid was addressing the government's decision to halt all future defence procurements and military contracts with Norway. He revealed that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had already engaged in diplomatic efforts by contacting his Norwegian counterpart. Ahmad Zahid highlighted Malaysia's disappointment over the situation and stressed the necessity of decisive action.

Furthermore, Ahmad Zahid indicated that the government might consider stopping purchases of Norwegian goods and supplies, reflecting the official stance that Malaysia should not be underestimated. He affirmed that Malaysia, although relatively small, is a sovereign nation with dignity.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin earlier justified the government's decision, citing Norway's lack of respect for Malaysia. The Cabinet endorsed the Ministry of Defence's recommendation to cease procuring defence assets from Norway and is considering extending this policy to other ministries, although it currently applies only to the Ministry of Defence.