KUALA LUMPUR – The maritime demarcation agreed under the Sulawesi Sea Treaty between Malaysia and Indonesia does not involve the controversial Ambalat sea block, said Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Mohamad Alamin.
Addressing the Dewan Rakyat today, Alamin said the treaty signed on June 8 does not involve the maritime borders at the Exclusive Economic Zone or continental shelf between Malaysia and Indonesia.
The Kimanis MP said the treaty only covers an area in part of the territorial sea waters and does not involve Ambalat.
“I would like to emphasise once again that the area or maritime demarcation agreed upon through the Sulawesi Sea Treaty does not directly involve the area mentioned as Ambalat.
“However, there still remain borders that need to be negotiated, which involve maritime territories,” he said when wrapping up the debate on the motion for the half-term review of the 12th Malaysia Plan for the ministry at the Dewan Rakyat today.
He also emphasised that the government will not take it lightly and arbitrarily make decisions on issues related to maritime boundaries because they involve national sovereignty.
“But at the same time, the country also needs to respect good diplomatic relations to guarantee peace, stability, and prosperity with any neighbouring country,” he said.
He added that due to the different ratification processes in the two countries, the treaty document could not be shared with the public at present.
Meanwhile, regarding the issue of the South China Sea, Alamin said Malaysia is of the position that all countries need to reduce the presence of warships in those waters to maintain peace and stability, and avoid tensions.
“The issue related to the South China Sea is a complex and sensitive issue due to the overlapping claims of several countries, so this issue needs to be handled comprehensively, and every action taken by the government is based on comprehensive considerations.
“In this regard, Malaysia is committed to dealing with the South China Sea issue constructively and in accordance with appropriate diplomatic forums and channels.
“In defending national sovereignty, the government should take a cautious attitude and avoid actions that could increase tension and avoid unwanted incidents in national waters,” he added. – September 19, 2023