LEAK OF CLASSIFIED INFORMATION RELATED TO A DIPLOMATIC NOTE

LEAK OF CLASSIFIED INFORMATION RELATED TO A DIPLOMATIC NOTE

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs refers to an article published by a Filipino media portal dated 29 August 2024. The article pertains to a Diplomatic Note from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China addressed to the Malaysian Embassy in Beijing on 18 February 2024.

The Ministry views the leak of this document, which constitutes an official communication channel between the two countries, with grave concern. In this context, the Ministry is conducting an internal investigation into this breach of classified information. The Ministry will also file a police report to enable an investigation by the relevant authorities to be undertaken promptly.

Malaysia and the People's Republic of China share close and active bilateral relations. Both countries are Comprehensive Strategic Partners and continuously initiate new efforts that could further strengthen this partnership to even greater heights.

Regarding the South China Sea, both countries have expressed commitment and determination to resolve any issues peacefully through consultations and dialogue using existing platforms and diplomatic channels, without recourse to disputes or violence.

Malaysia's stance on the South China Sea remains unchanged. Malaysia will continue to defend its sovereignty, sovereign rights, and interests in its maritime areas based on the 1979 Malaysia Map. This approach aligns with the universally recognised principles of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982.

In our efforts to maintain the South China Sea as a sea of peace, stability, and trade, Malaysia will continue to prioritise diplomatic engagement with other countries, including China. This is in line with the provisions of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), which emphasises the resolution of disputes by peaceful means and the avoidance of threats or use of force.

Malaysia remains committed to the negotiations between ASEAN member states and China to finalise a substantive and effective Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) in accordance with the provisions of UNCLOS 1982. As of August 2024, Malaysia and the People's Republic of China are co-chairs for a three-year period of the ASEAN and China meetings concerning the implementation of the DOC and negotiations to finalise the COC.

PUTRAJAYA

4 September 2024