14-11-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Malaysia announced plans to issue a formal protest to the Philippines regarding new maritime legislation that potentially infringes upon Malaysian territorial claims, including the state of Sabah.
Deputy Foreign Minister Mohamad Alamin revealed in parliament today that after careful review of the Philippines’ Maritime Zones Act and Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, Malaysian authorities identified concerning overlaps with Malaysian sovereign territory.
“Our government will submit a protest note today, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to protecting Sabah’s sovereign rights and our national sovereignty,” Alamin stated during the parliamentary session.
The diplomatic move follows a similar protest lodged by China over the same Philippine legislation, which Manila maintains was enacted to reinforce its maritime claims and protect its territorial integrity in the South China Sea region.
The controversy touches upon a long-dormant territorial dispute over eastern Sabah, which dates back to the colonial era. While such claims are rarely raised in official channels, the Philippine Supreme Court confirmed in 2011 that the nation has never formally abandoned its historical claim to the region.
The new maritime laws have sparked regional tension, highlighting the complex nature of overlapping territorial claims in Southeast Asia. The Philippine Foreign Ministry has yet to respond to Malaysia’s announced protest.
