China has issued a stern warning to Malaysia, demanding an immediate halt to activities in Sarawak's oil-rich waters, although Malaysia is trying to maintain diplomatic ties.
The warning was made in response to Malaysia's exploration activities near the Luconia Shoals or better known as the King Needle Shoal Cluster to Malaysia, an area claimed by China under the 10-dash line map, which asserts sovereignty over a large part of the South China Sea.
The latest lawsuit underscores China's aggressive stance on its territorial claims, despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration that previously deemed the nine-dash line illegal.
Malaysia's Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, has sought to balance diplomatic relations, describing China as a "true friend" and expressing a willingness to negotiate.
However, this approach has drawn criticism domestically, with opponents arguing that Malaysia's territorial rights are non-negotiable.
The escalating tensions highlight a wider geopolitical struggle in the South China Sea, where several countries, including Brunei, Taiwan, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam, also have competing claims.
As China continues to assert its dominance, the situation remains a sticking point for regional security.
