Manila has registered its claim to an extended continental shelf in the South China Sea, specifically in the Western Palawan region. This claim gives the Philippines sovereign and exclusive rights to exploit natural resources in the defined seabed areas.
Malaysia has rejected the Philippine claim, citing that the extended continental margin was projected from Malaysia’s state of Sabah. Malaysia asserts sovereignty over Sabah, leading to diplomatic tensions.
![Sabah straddles an area between Malaysia and the Philippines. Graphic: SCMP 13d85380 3c95 42b0 af0a 0605a6d335d8 6c6e924b](https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/d8/images/canvas/2024/07/03/13d85380-3c95-42b0-af0a-0605a6d335d8_6c6e924b.jpg)
Complicated history
The dispute over Sabah, originating from colonial-era agreements, remains unresolved. The disagreement between Malaysia and the Philippines dates back to the interpretation of a lease agreement from 1878.
Since Malaysia halted payments to the sultanate of Sulu in 2013, tensions have escalated, leading to legal battles and a significant ruling against Malaysia.
![Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos (right) shaking hands with Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan at the Malacanang Palace in Manila on Monday. Photo: Handout / Presidential Communications Office / AFP e548a7a4 817f 400c 9fe4 5adf71b350b8 595de0ff](https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/d8/images/canvas/2024/07/03/e548a7a4-817f-400c-9fe4-5adf71b350b8_595de0ff.jpg)
Unresolved tensions
Amidst ongoing tensions, the issue of Sabah remains a point of contention between Malaysia and the Philippines, with potential for negotiation but uncertainty surrounding future resolutions.