In a statement, former communications and multimedia minister Salleh Said Keruak said China’s actions were a clear message that it wants to control the waters of the South China Sea.
“The massive presence of nearly 100 Chinese ships in the waters of the South China Sea, claimed by the Philippines, sends a clear message that China seriously wants to control the area without regard to issues of aggression and regional sovereignty,” he said.
Salleh said Malaysia was not exempted from the effects of Chinese intrusions, especially in Sabah and Sarawak.
“For example, on June 1, the Royal Malaysian Air Force detected a suspicious flight of 16 aircraft from the People’s Liberation Army Air Force approaching the national airspace. Four days later, a Chinese coast guard ship was alleged to be near Beting Patinggi Ali in Sarawak,” he said.
The former Sabah chief minister said such incursions should not be taken lightly and this incident should be a reminder for the country to be always prepared.
Salleh added that China’s actions were a matter of concern and the government should issue a note of protest.
“I see the Chinese government’s actions in demonstrating military strength or dominance in the waters of the South China Sea as a worrying development.
“Malaysia needs to issue a diplomatic note of protest to China and the United Nations over China’s military activities.
“Even the recent decision of the Chinese government to regulate all foreign ships entering the South China Sea by reporting certain details, including cargo loads, to the Chinese maritime authorities will invite a negative reaction,” he said, adding that this matter could still be resolved through diplomatic channels.
Salleh also slammed recent actions by the US that he described as a provocation that threatened the security of Malaysia and the region.
He said despite the good intentions to ensure safe trade routes in the South China Sea, the massive presence of US military vessels and aircraft to conduct “freedom of navigation exercises” was seen as a provocation and security threat for China.
“As a result, China began to respond and subsequently tried to control the waters of the South China Sea by imposing new rules on cargo ships crossing the South China Sea.
“We hope that these two countries can be restrained from engaging in activities that threaten regional security and peace,” he said.
Salleh also urged both countries to stop making the South China Sea a war zone, saying their actions would definitely impact security in the region and threaten freedom of movement in international waters.
“There is no benefit between the two countries fighting or making the South China Sea a war zone. Both countries should respect the sovereignty of the countries in the region, including Malaysia,” he added.
Yesterday, Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) president Jeffrey Kitingan said Malaysia must never bow down to actions that can be termed as bullying by any foreign superpower, including China.
The Sabah deputy chief minister also called on the government to immediately request for a UN Security Council meeting in order to find a solution to the rising tension in the South China Sea area.