Malaysia, Brunei reaffirm Asean unity, South China Sea peace

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and Brunei have reaffirmed their dedication to Asean unity and their pivotal role in fostering regional peace, stability, and prosperity in a complex geopolitical and geoeconomic scenario. In a joint declaration unveiled after their 27th Annual Leaders' Consultation in Bandar Seri Begawan, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei reiterated their commitment to achieving the shared goals outlined in the Asean Community Vision 2045.

They emphasized the necessity of preserving peace, security, stability, and safety within the region, while highlighting the importance of freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and overflight above it. Both leaders advocated for the peaceful resolution of disputes in line with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

They stressed the significance of non-militarization and self-restraint in actions that could exacerbate tensions in the South China Sea. In the statement, Brunei expressed its backing for Malaysia's role as the coordinator of Asean-China Dialogue Relations, contributing to ongoing efforts aimed at reaching a comprehensive and effective Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea, in line with international law, including UNCLOS.

The leaders underscored the importance of fostering an environment conducive to COC negotiations, with the goal of bolstering confidence and enhancing mutual trust among regional nations.