The Malaysian government has confirmed the leak of a diplomatic note sent by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the Malaysian Embassy in Beijing in February 2024. The note, published in full by a Filipino news site on Aug. 29, 2024, alleges that Malaysia's oil and gas activities in the waters off Sarawak infringe upon China's sovereignty and territorial claims. Malaysia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kementerian Luar Negeri, KLN) expressed "grave concern" over the leak and has filed a police report.

Background

The diplomatic note, intended to remain private between the two governments, was leaked to the Philippine Daily Inquirer by an anonymous Malaysian journalist. The note outlines China's position on Malaysia's oil and gas exploration activities in the South China Sea, specifically near the Nansha Islands, which China claims as part of its territory. The note accuses Malaysia of violating international laws, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and urges Malaysia to cease its activities immediately.

China's position

The note from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs asserts that Nanking Shoal and Beikang Shoal are part of the Nansha Islands, over which China claims sovereignty. It states that China has historical rights in the South China Sea, supported by historical and legal bases, and aligned with the UN Charter and UNCLOS. Despite China's opposition, Malaysia has continued unilateral oil and gas exploration in fields such as Timi, Kasawari, Jerun, and others, which China claims infringe on its sovereignty and violate international laws.

Malaysia's response

Malaysia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken the leak seriously, filing a police report and initiating an internal investigation. The ministry emphasised the importance of maintaining diplomatic confidentiality and expressed concern over the potential implications of the leak on Malaysia-China relations. A spokesperson for the ministry stated, "We are committed to resolving this issue through diplomatic channels and ensuring that such breaches of confidentiality do not occur in the future."

Implications for Malaysia-China relations

The leak has raised questions about the future of Malaysia-China relations, particularly concerning maritime disputes in the South China Sea. China has expressed a desire to handle maritime differences through dialogue and communication, proposing the launch of a China-Malaysia consultation mechanism on maritime issues. The note also suggests promoting practical maritime cooperation, including joint development of oil and gas, to maintain peace and stability in the region.

Future developments

The leak of the diplomatic note has highlighted the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea and the complexities of international maritime disputes. Both Malaysia and China have significant interests in the region's oil and gas resources, and the resolution of these disputes will require careful negotiation and diplomacy. Future developments may include increased diplomatic efforts to establish joint exploration agreements and mechanisms to prevent similar leaks from occurring.

The situation remains fluid, and the international community will be closely monitoring how Malaysia and China navigate this sensitive issue. The outcome of the internal investigation by Malaysia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and any subsequent diplomatic engagements will be crucial in shaping the future of Malaysia-China relations in the context of the South China Sea disputes.