KUALA LUMPUR: Tensions between Malaysia and India should be resolved amicably because it is important for the nation's economy, says Port Dickson MP Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar said Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's refusal to retract his remarks on the Kashmir conflict was probably to represent the feelings of certain groups in Malaysia.

"He probably is representing the sentiment of some in the country. But I think we need to resolve this amicably because it is important for our economy," he added.

Speaking to reporters at the Parliament lobby on Wednesday (Oct 23), Anwar also said that Dr Mahathir is a leader known to be "very consistent in his views".

Dr Mahathir previously said that India and Pakistan should work together to resolve the Kashmir conflict during a United Nations General Assembly in New York.

On Monday (Oct 21), it was reported that an Indian trade body representing oilseed crushers had advised its members not to buy palm oil from Malaysia, echoing New Delhi's protest against Dr Mahathir's remarks on the Kashmir conflict.

On Tuesday (Oct 22), Dr Mahathir said it is necessary to speak out on issues, even if such remarks can be disliked by some.

Malaysian exported palm oil worth some US$1.65bil (RM6.9bil) to India in 2018.