KUCHING, Oct 12: Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim raised Malaysia’s objection to 2023 China Standard Map to then Chinese Premier Li Keqiang during the ASEAN East Asia dialogue.
Speaking during an interview with TIME recently, Anwar said in fact, he was among the few ASEAN leaders to point out the matter during the dialogue.
“But to me, what is reassuring is the categorical statement by Li that they will honour and respect the claims of others,” he said.
Asked if China has honoured and respected the claims because there has been reports of Chinese ships in Malaysian waters, Anwar responded that Malaysia raised objections if the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) identifies what they consider as incursions, albeit also claiming it as their territory.
According to him, thus far, when things are raised, or a polite note of concern is expressed, China does not necessarily withdraw but at least gives some deference or consideration.
“Which means they do not, for example, aggressively enter our waters. When we identify cases of them entering our waters, and give a note of protest, then they have steered away on a number of occasions,” he added.
Meanwhile, on Sept 1, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the 2023 China Standard Map which includes a significant portion of Sarawakian waters is not applicable. — DayakDaily
