Kuala lumpur: The South China Sea Code of Conduct (COC), anticipated to be finalized this year, is designed not to resolve overlapping territorial claims, but to provide a framework ensuring the region remains a secure, open, and peaceful trade route for all involved, stated Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. He emphasized that territorial disputes should be addressed through bilateral or multilateral negotiations, while the COC aims to establish behavioral norms and confidence-building measures to prevent tensions in the region.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad outlined Malaysia's role as the country coordinator with China in the creation of the COC. He mentioned the establishment of the rapid discussion group and the joint working group committee on the COC, expressing confidence that many terms within the COC have already been agreed upon. This was in response to questions from Datuk Mohd Isam Mohd Isa (BN-Tampin) about the latest developments in COC negotiations regarding the South China Sea, Malaysia's involvement, security in the Batu Puteh waters, and governmental measures to address these issues.
Mohamad elaborated on ASEAN's perspective, highlighting two key instruments-the Document of Conduct from 2002 and the ongoing COC negotiations-as foundational in managing the South China Sea. He identified principles and objectives of conduct, confidence-building measures, and a cautious approach as essential components to avoid actions that could incite tensions.
He further stated that military exercises in the South China Sea will continue to be conducted periodically through bilateral and multilateral cooperation, stressing they will not serve as provocations against any nation. Regional maritime stability remains a priority for Malaysia, a maritime nation. While Malaysia may conduct military exercises in these waters, they are not novel, do not target any specific country, and encompass naval and air operations, including joint exercises when necessary.
Responding to a supplementary question from Datuk Dr Nik Muhammad Zawawi Salleh (PN-Pasir Puteh) regarding military exercises, vessel intrusions, and potential red lines in COC negotiations, Mohamad noted that the COC discussions have made significant progress, with approximately 70 percent of the content agreed upon. However, he emphasized the need for careful negotiations to ensure national sovereignty remains intact.