PUTRAJAYA, April 18- Statements that belittle Malaysia's economic capabilities are arrogant and ignorant.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that it also shows that some individuals in the West are still trapped in colonial and imperialist thinking.

"Of course, he has no understanding at all about Asia, about ASEAN, about new developments and this is what we call in the field of social science as outmoded thinking.

"Beliefs that carry with it imperialist and colonial attitude," he said.

He said this to the media after attending the Finance Ministry's Aidilfitri Celebration Ceremony here, today.

He said that the statement did not represent the majority's views.

In fact, Malaysia needs to continue to prove its progress and capabilities at the international level.

Previously, a video clip went viral showing a senior US political commentator belittling the Chinese President's visit to Malaysia and belittling the country's economy.