South China Sea Incident: Key Takeways And Strategic Recommendations For Malaysia

-11^th July 2024-

Introduction
The South China Sea remains one of the most geopolitically contentious regions globally, with overlapping territorial claims, strategic waterways, and abundant natural resources fuelling tensions. Recently, an incident between the Philippines and the Chinese Coast Guard has brought renewed attention to the fragile security situation in the area. This commentary aims to analyse the incident's key takeaways and provide strategic recommendations for Malaysia moving forward.

Incident Overview
On June 30, 2024, tensions flared up between the Philippines and the Chinese Coast Guard near the Scarborough Shoal, a disputed territory in the South China Sea. The incident involved a Chinese Coast Guard vessel intercepting and allegedly using water cannons against a Philippine supply boat. This boat was en route to deliver supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded Philippine naval ship used as an outpost on the Second Thomas Shoal. The confrontation escalated diplomatic tensions between Manila and Beijing, drawing international condemnation and calls for restraint (Reuters, 2024).

Key Takeaways from the Incident
1. Escalation of Tensions
The incident underscores the escalating tensions between China and Southeast Asian nations, particularly those with overlapping claims in the South China Sea. China's aggressive maritime behaviour, including the use of water cannons and other non-lethal methods of deterrence, highlights its commitment to asserting control over disputed areas. This pattern of behaviour increases the risk of miscalculations and unintended conflicts.

2. Philippine Resolve and International Support
The Philippines' response to the incident, including strong diplomatic protests and seeking international support, demonstrates its resolve to defend its territorial claims. The incident also drew reactions from the international community, with countries like the United States and Japan expressing support for the Philippines and condemning China's actions. This international backing is crucial for smaller nations facing pressure from larger, more powerful states (Reuters, 2024).

3. Implications for Freedom of Navigation
The incident has significant implications for freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, a vital corridor for international maritime trade. Actions that threaten this principle not only affect regional stability but also global economic interests. The international community's response to such incidents underscores the importance of upholding maritime laws and ensuring that navigation routes remain open and free from coercion.

4. Role of International Law and Multilateralism
The incident highlights the importance of international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), in resolving maritime disputes. The Philippines has repeatedly called for adherence to UNCLOS, which provides a legal framework for maritime entitlements and dispute resolution. Multilateral forums and alliances, such as ASEAN and the Quad, play a critical role in addressing such incidents and promoting collective security (United Nations, 1982).

Strategic Recommendations for Malaysia
Given the recent incident between the Philippines and the Chinese Coast Guard, Malaysia must carefully navigate its policy and strategy in the South China Sea. Here are strategic recommendations for Malaysia moving forward:
1. Strengthen Diplomatic Engagement
Malaysia should intensify diplomatic efforts to address the South China Sea disputes through peaceful means. This includes engaging in bilateral and multilateral dialogues with China and other claimant states to promote mutual understanding and cooperation. By participating actively in ASEAN discussions and other regional forums, Malaysia can advocate for a rules-based approach to maritime security and dispute resolution.

2. Enhance Maritime Security Capabilities
To protect its interests and assert its territorial claims, Malaysia must enhance its maritime security capabilities. This includes investing in modern naval and coast guard assets, improving surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, and conducting regular patrols in disputed areas. Strengthening maritime security will not only deter potential aggressors but also ensure the safety of Malaysia's maritime activities and resources.

3. Foster Regional Cooperation
Malaysia should strengthen its cooperation with other Southeast Asian nations facing similar challenges in the South China Sea. By fostering regional solidarity, Malaysia can contribute to a unified stance against unilateral actions and promote collective security. Joint exercises, information-sharing, and coordinated responses to incidents can enhance regional resilience and deterrence.

4. Leverage International Support
Malaysia should continue to seek support from the international community to uphold the principles of freedom of navigation and international law. Engaging with key partners like the United States, Japan, Australia, and India can provide Malaysia with diplomatic backing and potential security assistance. Leveraging international support will reinforce Malaysia's position and deter aggressive actions by other states.

5. Promote Adherence to International Law
As a signatory to UNCLOS, Malaysia should consistently advocate for the adherence to international law in resolving maritime disputes. By emphasizing the importance of legal frameworks and peaceful dispute resolution mechanisms, Malaysia can strengthen its moral and legal standing in the international community. This approach aligns with Malaysia's commitment to a rules-based international order.

6. Balance Economic and Security Interests
While addressing security concerns, Malaysia must also balance its economic interests, particularly its trade relations with China. Maintaining a pragmatic approach that does not overly antagonize China while defending its sovereign rights is essential. Engaging in economic diplomacy and exploring avenues for mutually beneficial cooperation can help manage tensions and foster stability.

Conclusion
The recent incident between the Philippines and the Chinese Coast Guard serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions and complexities in the South China Sea. For Malaysia, the key takeaways from this incident underscore the need for a multifaceted strategy that includes strengthening diplomatic engagement, enhancing maritime security capabilities, fostering regional cooperation, leveraging international support, promoting adherence to international law, and balancing economic and security interests.

Moving forward, Malaysia must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the challenges posed by the South China Sea disputes. By adopting a comprehensive and balanced approach, Malaysia can contribute to regional stability, protect its national interests, and uphold the principles of international law. The path to a peaceful and stable South China Sea requires cooperation, dialogue, and a steadfast commitment to a rules-based international order.

 

 

References

- Reuters. (2024). Philippine Boat Hit by Chinese Water Cannon near Disputed Shoal, Escalating Tensions. Retrieved from [https://www.reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com)
- United Nations. (1982). United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Retrieved from [https://www.un.org/depts/los/convention_agreements/texts/unclos/unclos_e.pdf](https://www.un.org/depts/los/convention_agreements/texts/unclos/unclos_e.pdf)