Anwar Ibrahim recently criticised Kevin Rudd for appeasing Malaysia’s corrupt leaders. It appears that Kevin Rudd, in order to push his Asia Pacific Community idea, is sacrificing the legitimate rights and interest of citizens in countries with doubtful democratic credentials but are strategic partners of Australia.

That Malaysia is a dysfunctional democracy is well established. Furthermore, Malaysia has an atrocious human rights record. This author had earlier protested Kevin Rudd describing Malaysia as a “robust democracy” for diplomatic expediency.

If Kevin Rudd continues diplomatic posturing that sacrifices human rights, Australia cannot be recognised as a credible “democracy” but a state that puts profits and its strategic interests before the legitimate rights of citizens in countries attempting to overthrow corrupt regimes.