Malaysia Challenges Philippines' Maritime Claims Amid South China Sea Tensions

Malaysia plans to issue a protest note to the Philippines due to new maritime laws affecting overlapping claims in the South China Sea. The laws allegedly touch upon Malaysia's territorial claims to the state of Sabah. This move follows similar complaints from China.

Malaysia is poised to send a protest note to the Philippines in response to new maritime legislation impacting overlapping territorial claims in the South China Sea. This action was announced by Malaysia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Mohamad Alamin, on Thursday.

The protest mirrors a prior complaint from China concerning the Philippines' Maritime Zones Act and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act. Manila insists that these laws reinforce its maritime sovereignty and territorial integrity. Malaysia contends that the laws implicate claims to Sabah, a Malaysian state on Borneo island.

"Our decision to dispatch a protest note underscores Malaysia's resolute stance on safeguarding Sabah's sovereign rights and our national sovereignty," Mohamad declared in parliament. Meanwhile, the Philippines' foreign ministry has yet to issue a formal response.

(With inputs from agencies.)