Malaysia firmly rejects maritime claims overlapping its 1979 map, commits to UNCLOS and a substantive South China Sea code of conduct.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia remains unwavering in defending its sovereignty and national rights, particularly in the South China Sea.
Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni (pic) stated the nation rejects any excessive claims based on China’s Nine-Dash Line map.
Malaysia does not recognise any claims overlapping its maritime areas as defined by its 1979 New Map of Malaysia.
The government will continue to submit diplomatic protest notes against intrusions by foreign vessels or assets.
“We are committed to safeguarding sovereignty in accordance with international law, including UNCLOS 1982,” he said in Parliament.
Malaysia also reaffirms its commitment to negotiations on a Code of Conduct for the South China Sea.
Lukanisman emphasised the COC is intended to prevent conflict, not just resolve maritime disputes.
“Maritime disputes should be resolved through existing mechanisms under international law,” he added.
Malaysia is committed to ensuring a substantive and effective COC is finalised within the expected timeframe.
The Deputy Minister said Malaysia does not subscribe to the notion that ‘might is right’.
He stated the nation remains committed to multilateralism and international law.
Malaysia maintains neutral and principled diplomatic relations with all major powers, including the United States.
This approach does not compromise the independence of Malaysia’s foreign policy.
On Palestine, Malaysia remains steadfast in supporting the Palestinian cause.
Lukanisman views the issue as one of humanitarian concern and human rights, not religion.
“Malaysia will not compromise its principled stand merely to be at the negotiating table,” he said.
He added the nation seeks real justice for the Palestinian people, including an end to occupation.
Malaysia also opposes any foreign interference in the internal affairs of other countries.
This includes actions taken against Venezuela, according to the Deputy Minister.
Territorial sovereignty issues should be resolved peacefully in accordance with international law.
Malaysia will continue to strengthen its role in multilateral platforms like the UN and ASEAN.
It will also remain active in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the Non-Aligned Movement.
“Malaysia will continue to play its role as a principled and consistent nation,” Lukanisman said.
He concluded by affirming Malaysia’s commitment to defending sovereignty and promoting global peace.
