Malaysia Firm on South China Sea Oil Exploration Despite China's Objections

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim affirmed Malaysia's commitment to continue its oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea, despite China’s objections. This comes after Beijing sent a diplomatic protest note accusing Malaysia of infringing on its territory. Anwar reiterated Malaysia's stance of operating within its own waters while maintaining a strong diplomatic relationship with China.

On Thursday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim asserted that Malaysia would not bow to China's demands to cease oil and gas exploration activities in the South China Sea, emphasizing that these activities are conducted within Malaysian territorial waters.

Anwar's comments followed a protest note from China accusing Malaysia of territorial infringement. Malaysia's Foreign Ministry is investigating the leak of this diplomatic note, which was published by a Filipino media outlet.

Despite the diplomatic tension, Anwar stressed that Malaysia's actions aren't intended to be provocative, calling China a great friend while underlining the nation's right to explore resources within its own borders.

The publication of the note by The Philippine Daily Inquirer outlines China's demand for Malaysia to halt operations near the Luconia Shoals, an area rich in oil and gas off the coast of Sarawak on Borneo island.

Anwar acknowledged recurring disputes over the South China Sea but highlighted Malaysia's preference for diplomatic solutions to maintain strong economic ties with China, which has been its top trading partner since 2009.

(With inputs from agencies.)