KUALA LUMPUR: Putrajaya will pursue diplomatic channels and follow-up action from a legal standpoint, following Norway’s decision to halt the export of a missile series ordered by the country, says Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
The government spokesman said the matter was raised during Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s talk with his Norwegian counterpart.
“We will pursue steps through diplomatic channels while also examining legal aspects,” he told a press conference.
Fahmi said the government regretted Norway’s decision not to approve an export permit for the missile procurement at the last minute, preventing the company involved from continuing the agreed supply.
He said the contract had been signed in 2018 and implemented without issues, with all payments made on schedule.
“The Malaysian government cannot accept the reasons given by the Norwegian government,” he added.
Fahmi said the implementation of the National Defence Plan was a strategic interest that could not be compromised.
Asked whether Malaysia would have to be compensated, he said the matter is under review.
The Norwegian Foreign Ministry has reportedly withdrawn several export licences related to certain technologies as part of the country’s move to tighten export controls.