KUALA LUMPUR: The Territorial Sea Act is still valid and in force nationwide, including in Terengganu, says the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).
This is despite the Terengganu State Legislative Assembly's rejection of the law during a sitting on Thursday.In a statement, PMO said the Territorial Sea Act was passed in Parliament, in line with the Federal Constitution.
"Even though the Terengganu State Legislative Assembly passed a resolution to reject the act, it is still valid and in force throughout Malaysia including in Terengganu unless declared otherwise by the courts," it said.
The PMO said the Territorial Sea Act was introduced to protect the country's sovereignty and safety.
It also said the law's introduction was to fulfill Malaysia's obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
"It is the federal government's responsibility to ensure Malaysia's sovereignty including its waters is always protected."
The PMO said the government, in line with Malaysia Madani values, always provided development funds to all states including Terengganu.
Yesterday, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil hit out at Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar over the state's rejection of the Territorial Sea Act.
Fahmi said Samsuri should ask Marang member of parliament Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang why he did not object to the bill when it was tabled, debated, and approved in Parliament 12 years ago.
On Thursday, the Terengganu State Legislative Assembly rejected the Territorial Sea Act, citing its infringement on the state's rights to explore resources and generate revenue within its maritime border.