China and Malaysia commit to peace in South China Sea

China and Malaysia pledged to uphold peace in the South China Sea, resolve disputes peacefully, and deepen global cooperation, following Xi Jinping’s state visit. Both nations also reaffirmed support for multilateralism and international law.

China and Malaysia have agreed to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea and resolve disputes through peaceful means. This was highlighted in a joint statement released after Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Malaysia. Despite recent tensions involving Chinese vessels near Malaysian energy firm Petronas' operations, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed Malaysia’s intent to continue activities within its exclusive economic zone.

Xi concluded his Southeast Asia tour with visits to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia. The joint statement expressed hope for finalizing the long-awaited Code of Conduct between China and ASEAN by next year, a process that began slowly despite a pledge made in 2002.

Tensions persist in the South China Sea, where China claims nearly the entire area, overlapping with zones belonging to Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Brunei. A 2016 international ruling rejected China's claims, though China refuses to acknowledge the decision.

The joint statement also promoted multilateralism and global trade cooperation, contrasting with the U.S.'s tariff-based approach. Both nations emphasized collaboration through international bodies like the UN, WTO, WHO, and BRICS, and opposed unilateral trade restrictions that violate WTO rules.

Malaysia reaffirmed its support for the one-China policy and rejected Taiwan's independence. Both countries also voiced support for a ceasefire in Gaza and recognized it as a legitimate part of Palestinian territory.

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