Malaysia to send protest note to China over maritime claims

Malaysia’s Foreign Minister, Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, has announced that Malaysia will be sending a protest note to China regarding China’s claim on the South China Sea as stated in the “China Standard Map Edition 2023”. After issuing a statement expressing Malaysia’s position on the matter, the next step for Malaysia will be to send the protest note. Datuk Seri Zambry explained that this is the usual practice in such situations. The Foreign Minister did not specify when the protest note will be handed over to China.

The Malaysian Foreign Ministry had previously stated on August 30 that Malaysia does not recognize China’s claims in the South China Sea. The ministry highlighted that the map in question has no authoritative power over Malaysia. The map includes China’s unilateral claims that encroach upon Malaysia’s maritime areas in Sabah and Sarawak, which are based on the 1979 Malaysia New Map.

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It is clear that Malaysia is taking this issue seriously and is determined to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. By sending a protest note to China, Malaysia is making it known that it strongly disagrees with China’s claim on the South China Sea as depicted in the “China Standard Map Edition 2023”. The protest note serves as a formal means of communication and expresses Malaysia’s dissatisfaction with China’s actions.

China’s claims in the South China Sea have long been a contentious issue, with multiple countries, including Malaysia, contesting China’s territorial claims. Malaysia’s stance is in line with other nations that do not recognize China’s claims and are committed to upholding international law and the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.

By addressing this issue and sending a protest note, Malaysia is ensuring that its concerns are heard and understood by China. This diplomatic action reflects the strong commitment of the Malaysian government to safeguard its rights and interests in the South China Sea and to actively engage in the resolution of territorial disputes through peaceful means.

Although the time frame for delivering the protest note was not mentioned, it can be expected that Malaysia will pursue this matter through diplomatic channels to assert its position on the South China Sea. Malaysia’s protest note will serve as a clear message to China about its disagreement with China’s claims and its determination to protect its maritime areas.

In conclusion, Malaysia’s decision to send a protest note to China regarding China’s claims on the South China Sea demonstrates its firm stance and commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. By taking this diplomatic action, Malaysia is making its position clear and emphasizing the importance of upholding international law and peaceful dispute resolution. The protest note serves as a formal means of communication, conveying Malaysia’s dissatisfaction with China’s claims and its determination to protect its maritime areas.