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MALAYSIA will issue a diplomatic note to the Philippines to reject any claims made regarding the state of Sabah, following recent remarks by a Philippine senator calling for the revival of Manila’s territorial assertions over the Borneo region.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan described the matter as a recurring issue, noting that similar claims have surfaced in the past whenever domestic concerns arise in the Philippines.
“This is not a new matter. Each time there is an issue within their country, there will be parties attempting to divert attention by raising such matters.”
“So we (Wisma Putra) will send a diplomatic note regarding these statements, as is customary,” he said during his Aidilfitri open house in Rantau on Saturday.
The minister’s comments came in response to Philippine Senator Robin Padilla’s call for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to resurrect the country’s claim over Sabah, a resource-rich state known for its oil reserves.
Mohamad suggested the senator’s initiative is intended to shift domestic focus away from internal challenges facing the Philippines.
“I believe the Filipino people themselves understand this. However, there are a few politicians who attempt to champion certain issues to divert attention from real problems,” he said.
He reiterated that Malaysia will continue to assert Sabah’s status through diplomatic channels.
“Every time statements like these are made, we will send a diplomatic note to the Philippine government reaffirming that Sabah is part of the Federation of Malaysia,” he said.
The minister also underscored that Sabah’s integration into Malaysia was determined through the Cobbold Commission process and subsequently recognised by the United Nations.
“Sabah chose to join Malaysia through the Cobbold Commission, and this decision has been confirmed by the United Nations.
“Therefore, there should no longer be any question of Sabah’s status raised by any party,” he added.
The remarks reaffirm Malaysia’s consistent stance on Sabah, dismissing any attempts to challenge the state’s sovereignty and emphasising the importance of regional stability. - March 28, 2026