Malaysia firm on disputed seas as China influence grows

By P Prem Kumar

KUALA LUMPUR

Malaysia's prime minister says China's position as a major investor in the country will not deter its firm stand on multiple unresolved territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

The territory is of major concern to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc -- of which Malaysia is a major member -- as it seeks to deal with rival claims while China's economic ties grow.

Premier Najib Razak told parliament on Monday that territorial claims would be dealt with in a non-confrontational manner and there would be no compromise in sovereignty as Beijing's economic influence grows.

"As a sovereign country, we believe that all differences and disputes have to be handled via dialogues and peaceful negotiations," Razak said.

"Although we have strong economic relations with China, we still have a strong stand on the South China Sea issue... we are just taking the non-confrontational mechanism."

China claims most of the sea under its historical “nine-dash line” claim, which is not recognized by international authorities.

Other ASEAN countries which claim ownership include the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore.

The area is a critical asset for global shipping and fishing, as it sees over $5 trillion in maritime trade every year.

On Monday, Razak suggested that to reduce tensions all parties should adhere to the Declaration on the Conduct (DOC) of Parties in the South China Sea in its entirety as well as accelerate consultation on a Code of Conduct.

The DOC -- between ASEAN and China -- reaffirms the determination to consolidate and develop friendship and cooperation while promoting a peaceful, friendly and harmonious environment for the enhancement of peace, stability, economic growth and prosperity in the region.

"Only through DOC, all these countries can build better trust and respect on each other in the issue of South China Sea," Razak added.

Malaysia has previously expressed intention to apply diplomatic pressure to caution China about maritime activities at the man made island Fiery Cross Island in the area.

Flight testings and landings conducted by China on the island were said to create a non-conducive situation, with the potential to increase tensions.

The island is outside of Malaysia's maritime border.