SABAH Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor hopes the maritime boundary violations by the Philippines can be resolved diplomatically, emphasising the importance of maintaining kinship within the Asean community.
His comments followed a briefing by Wisma Putra regarding Malaysia’s submission of a protest note to the United Nations to address the issue.
“We have been informed by Wisma Putra, and we leave this matter to the federal government. From what I understand, we have already sent a protest note to the United Nations for a resolution,” Hajiji said.
He underscored Sabah’s adherence to Malaysia’s national boundaries, adding, “From what I see on the map, it does encroach slightly into our national territory.
“So, we hope this can be resolved amicably because the Philippines is our neighbour, and I feel it needs to be handled carefully and diplomatically, as part of the Asean family.”
Hajiji made the remarks today after attending the tabling of the Supply Bill (2025) 2024 at the Sabah State Assembly.
Meanwhile, Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Mohamad Alamin, during the winding-up debate for the 2025 Supply Bill on Thursday, confirmed that Malaysia had sent a protest note to the Philippines regarding two recently passed laws: the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act.
The acts, which redefine the Philippines’ maritime boundaries, reportedly encroach upon Malaysia’s 1979 map established under international law. - November 16, 2024
