Kuala Lampur, Sept. 19 -- I understand why the Government is seeking a practical and durable solution to the presence of large numbers of Myanmar nationals in Malaysia, including the Rohingya. Malaysia cannot be expected to carry this burden indefinitely, and diplomacy requires engagement with difficult actors and the pursuit of solutions that serve both humanitarian and national interests.

But diplomacy is not simply about opening doors to anyone. It is about knowing what we want to achieve, building leverage and securing commitments before we make concessions.

That is why I do not believe that inviting Min Aung Hlaing to Malaysia is the right diplomatic move at this stage.

This is not about refusing to communicate with Myanmar or its...