KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Malaysia is making headlines with its strong pushback against recent maritime laws enacted by the Philippines, which Kuala Lumpur claims violate its territorial rights. A government official confirmed on Friday the resolution to deliver a protest note to Manila, signaling rising tensions between the two Southeast Asian nations over maritime boundaries.
Deputy Foreign Minister Mohamad Alamin announced the formal protest on Thursday, stemming from the Philippines’ newly signed Philippine Maritime Zones Act and Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act. The newly outlined legislation was perceived by Malaysia as reiteration of long-standing claims to the oil-rich Malaysian state of Sabah, located on the island of Borneo.
Mohamad emphasized, during Parliament discussions, how the laws purportedly extend Philippine claims deep within areas recognized internationally as belonging to Malaysia. These claims are drawn from historical maps established back in 1979 and have caused friction not just for Malaysia but also for other countries bordering the contested South China Sea.
The Philippines, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is adamant about its sovereignty claims. By asserting its rights to sea lanes and resources, the Philippine government aims to reinforce control over maritime territories and reject encroachment from foreign powers. This includes defiance against Chinese assertions over vast areas of the South China Sea, with tensions increasing due to unexpected naval confrontations.
Malaysia, alongside claimants like Vietnam, Brunei, Indonesia, and Taiwan, has continually contested various maritime boundaries, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. The heightened activity in these waters has raised concerns about potential military escalations, especially with the United States being Manila’s long-standing ally.
Underlining Malaysia's commitment to protect its sovereignty, Mohamad asserted, “This protest note serves as our official demonstration to defend Sabah’s sovereign rights and the overall integrity of our nation.” Sabah has remained under Malaysia’s governance since joining the federation back in 1963. Yet, the Philippines has maintained historical claims, pointing to its colonial legacies linked to the Sultanate of Sulu.
Experts have advised the current Malaysian government to tread cautiously, as the maritime dispute could disrupt regional stability. Historical grievances have resurfaced with heightened clamoring for sovereignty over resources deemed economically beneficial — ranging from oil to fisheries.
The strategic maneuverings within the South China Sea have attracted global attention, particularly with the recent invocation of international law through the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). According to regulations established by UNCLOS, coastal states maintain sovereign rights over their continental shelves and exclusive economic zones, which Malaysia argues the Philippines is overstepping with its new maritime laws.
Both nations continue to call for dialogue to address conflicting claims, yet, underlying tensions may complicate peaceful resolutions. The Philippine government has faced criticism for its maritime policies, which some experts claim could ignite conflicts not only with neighboring Malaysia but also with China, known for its assertive stance over territorial waters.
The situation is sure to develop as both governments navigate the intricacies of international policy and national pride. With oil-rich regions hanging in the balance, it remains to be seen how these maritime disputes will shape future relations between Malaysia and the Philippines.
