Malaysia: Malaysia remains firm in defending its sovereignty and national rights, including in the South China Sea, and rejects any excessive claims based on China's Nine-Dash Line map. Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni emphasized Malaysia's position on this matter, asserting that the country does not recognize any claims overlapping with its maritime areas as outlined in the 1979 New Map of Malaysia.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia is committed to submitting diplomatic protest notes against intrusions by vessels or assets from any country. The government is dedicated to safeguarding sovereignty and national interests by adhering to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982 (UNCLOS 1982).
Malaysia also reaffirms its commitment to negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC), aimed at preventing conflict and tension in the area, rather than solely resolving maritime disputes. Lukanisman stated that maritime disputes should be resolved through existing mechanisms under international law, including UNCLOS 1982, and Malaysia is intent on finalizing a substantive and effective COC within the expected timeframe.
Lukanisman highlighted Malaysia's rejection of the notion that 'might is right' in international relations, emphasizing its commitment to multilateralism and international law. Malaysia maintains neutral, principled, and mutually respectful diplomatic relations with major powers, including the United States, without compromising its independent foreign policy.
Regarding Palestine, Malaysia remains steadfast in supporting the Palestinian cause, viewing it as a humanitarian and human rights issue. Lukanisman clarified that Malaysia is assessing the situation to ensure the absolute rights of the Palestinian people, including ending occupation and establishing an independent state. Malaysia will not compromise its principled stand just to be part of negotiations if real justice for Palestinians is not ensured.
Lukanisman also stated Malaysia's opposition to foreign interference in other countries' internal affairs, including actions against Venezuela. He stressed that territorial sovereignty issues should be peacefully resolved in accordance with international law. Malaysia aims to strengthen its role in multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, ASEAN, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and the Non-Aligned Movement to ensure adherence to international law.
'Malaysia will continue to play its role as a principled and consistent nation in defending sovereignty, upholding international law, and promoting global peace and stability,' he concluded.