Malaysia investigates leaked Chinese note on South China Sea dispute

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that the country will continue its oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea, despite protests from China regarding territorial claims. Speaking from Russia, Anwar emphasized that Malaysia's activities are within its own territory and are not intended to provoke China, with which Malaysia maintains friendly relations. He reiterated the importance of securing economic advantages through exploration in Malaysian waters. The Malaysian foreign ministry is currently investigating a leaked diplomatic note from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, which claimed that Malaysia's exploration infringes on Chinese territory. This note was reported by a Philippine news outlet and reflects China's broader claims over nearly the entire South China Sea, complicating energy exploration for several nations in the region. Anwar acknowledged that China has sent protest notes regarding Malaysia's activities but affirmed that the government will continue to clarify its position to Beijing. He stated that Malaysia has a strict policy of not transgressing other nations' borders and firmly believes that its exploration efforts are legitimate within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The situation is further complicated by an international arbitration ruling in 2016, which determined that China's extensive claims in the South China Sea lack legal basis under international law. Despite this ruling, China does not recognize the decision, leading to ongoing tensions in the region over territorial disputes and resource extraction rights.