KUALA LUMPUR: The government will continue to voice Malaysia's firm stance on the South China Sea at relevant platforms to ensure the country's sovereignty and national interests are preserved.
Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Mohamad Alamin said as the 2025 Asean chair and Asean-China Dialogue Relations Coordinator until July 2027, Malaysia remains committed to resolving issues related to the matter using appropriate forums and diplomatic channels.
"This is in line with the country's firm position that all parties must avoid actions that could escalate tensions or be provocative and should practice self-restraint.
"The government also consistently reiterates Malaysia's position in every meeting with foreign countries at various levels, from heads of state meetings to working group levels," he told the Dewan Rakyat today.
He was responding to Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim (Arau-PN) when asked about the alternative measures that should be implemented, given the approach of controlling China Coast Guard ships.
Alamin said the government also implements a whole-of-government approach to coordinate the actions taken to safeguard Malaysia's sovereignty and security in its waters.
"In relation to incidents of foreign vessels intruding into Malaysia's maritime area, the Foreign Ministry has consistently issued and will continue to issue, protest notes to the relevant countries if their vessels and assets are found to be encroaching on Malaysia's waters.
"The South China Sea issue is complex and sensitive and must be handled with care, diligence and comprehensiveness.
"Every action taken by the government is based on a comprehensive consideration and will never compromise the nation's sovereignty, rights and national interests," he said.
Meanwhile, he said, the government always prioritises the safety of Malaysia's waters in the South China Sea, including the area around Beting Patinggi Ali.
Alamin said the government and related ministries and agencies also monitor developments and the current situation in the area to ensure the issue is addressed promptly and efficiently without escalating tensions on the ground.
"Actions taken include patrols, surveillance, monitoring and enforcement in Malaysia's maritime areas to demonstrate a show of presence in those waters," he said.