Kota Kinabalu: The escalating military provocations between the United States (US) and China in the South China Sea could threaten Sabah’s cross-border security, said Sabah Backbenchers Club Chairman Datuk Masiung Banah.
The Kuamut Assemblyman said the military activities of the two major powers should not be taken lightly as they could potentially threaten national sovereignty, particularly involving Sabah and Sarawak.
He urged the Foreign Ministry (Wisma Putra) to immediately initiate diplomatic discussions involving the US, China and the Philippines to ensure the South China Sea remains safe for regional trade.
Masiung expressed concern that the Philippine government, together with the US, had developed large-scale military facilities and assets on Balabac Island in southern Philippines, which is only about 50km from Banggi Island, Sabah, or about 20 minutes by boat.
“Given that the military operations are very close to Sabah, the Malaysian Government should take the matter seriously from the security aspect, particularly concerning the people along the northern coast of Sabah.
“The main concern is that the presence of a large number of US troops on Balabac Island could potentially trigger an unexpected situation. It must be remembered that, to this day, the Philippines still claims sovereignty over Sabah,” he said.
Masiung said US and Chinese military activities around Borneo have intensified, with both major powers continuing to strengthen their military deployments and defence assets.
Elaborating on the issue, he said he was concerned that the situation along Sabah’s northern coast was becoming increasingly tense and did not rule out the possibility of a minor incident escalating into a confrontation.
Masiung said although Malaysia and the Philippines continued to maintain good bilateral and diplomatic relations, Malaysia must remain vigilant against any unforeseen developments.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had also voiced concern over US military activities on Balabac Island and the Philippines’ claim over Sabah, he said.
The latest developments in the South China Sea have attracted the attention of regional countries, with concerns that tensions could escalate further as the US and China deploy increasing numbers of warships, combat aircraft, missile systems and other advanced military assets.
