ABSTRACT
This part introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters. The part focuses on the bilateral relationship that perhaps best embodies Malaysia's balance between warm embrace and arm's length distancing: its alliance with the United States (US). The US–Malaysia relationship has been strong throughout Malaysia's independent history, primarily in economic terms, but increasingly also in terms of security and US regional strategy. The chapter argues that the asymmetrical relationship between Malaysia and China previously represented more of a threat–particularly in the throes of the Cold War–but is largely beneficial. It suggests that although Malaysia's relations with Europe generate far less scholarly or public attention than its ties with the twin giants of the US and China, in fact, these connections have remained quietly percolating and significant. The chapter explores the continuing prevalence of piracy in Malaysian waters. Such attacks have a long history, albeit with diverse parameters, perpetrators, and targets.
