IN recent events surrounding the Philippines' activity on Ayungin Shoal, or Ren'ai Jiao as named by China, has become paramount to distinguish between a country's legal rights and the art of political posturing.
First and foremost, while China frames the South China Sea issue as a mere reflection of "geopolitical competition" and "major power confrontation", it fails to highlight the longstanding claims of multiple nations in this region based on centuries of historical presence and internationally recognised rights.
Dismissing the Philippines' actions as mere provocations shows a wilful disregard for the country's legitimate claims in the region.
It is important to note that the 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, under the auspices of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), invalidated China's sweeping nine-dash line claim to almost the entirety of the South China Sea.
To describe this legally binding ruling as a mere "piece of wastepaper under political manipulation" is not only dismissive but flies in the face of international law. This isn't a "political hype" but a reality that China must grapple with.
The narrative that China has been ""professionally and restrainedly" dealing with the maritime incident, while providing temporary allowances for the Philippines out of humanitarian concerns, attempts to paint a picture of benevolence. However, we must remember the context.
Massive land reclamations, military installations on artificial islands and aggressive naval patrols by China have been a source of alarm for the smaller nations bordering the South China Sea. Such activities hardly resonate with the claim of China behaving "professionally".
While China's insistence on bilateral negotiations with individual Asean nations over the Code of Conduct seems reasonable, one must question the motivation. Is it truly a collaborative spirit or a tactic to employ divide-and-rule strategies among the Asean nations?
As for the insinuation that "wherever there is the United States, there will be chaos", it is essential to note that alliances and treaties, such as the US-Philippines Mutual Defence Treaty, are established based on shared interests and mutual defence, not provocations. Casting such agreements as mere instruments of chaos amounts to a gross misrepresentation.
The Philippines' commitment to towing away the grounded warship on Ren'ai Reef demonstrates its willingness to cooperate. But, cooperation is a two-way street. China's activities in the region suggest a desire for dominance, not mutual understanding and shared maritime governance.
Furthermore, we cannot discuss the South China Sea without acknowledging the interests and perspectives of other nations, notably Malaysia. Malaysia, despite its generally reserved stance, has been clear about its territorial claims and rights in the South China Sea.
As a crucial Asean nation and a key player in the region, Malaysia has consistently advocated for peaceful resolutions and respect for international laws and norms. For nations like Malaysia, the South China Sea is not merely a geopolitical game; it is about sovereignty, sustainable use of marine resources, and ensuring the wellbeing of its people.
However, with the increasing geopolitical tensions, there's an inescapable realisation for Malaysia. In an era of uncertain diplomacy and erratic power dynamics, bolstering its defence capabilities becomes a prudent, if not a necessary, move. Investing significantly in enhancing its military assets, increasing its defence budget, and strengthening its naval and aerial capabilities in the region is imperative.
This isn't about belligerence; it is about preparation. It is about ensuring that Malaysia has the necessary deterrence against potential aggressors and is equipped to handle any unforeseen escalations in this highly strategic waterway.
While no nation wants war, it is paramount for Malaysia to recognise the volatile nature of the South China Sea's geopolitics and be prepared for every eventuality. In doing so, it will not only protect its territorial rights but also send a clear message that its commitment to peace is equalled by its readiness to defend its sovereignty.
In conclusion, rather than casting aspersions and viewing every move through a geopolitical prism, it is time for a genuine commitment to uphold international laws and norms.
Peace and stability in the South China Sea aren't mere catchphrases; they are imperatives for the prosperity of millions in the region. Let's prioritise that over political posturing.
* The writer is a professor at the Department of International Relations, Security and Law, Faculty of Defence Studies and Management, National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM)