Joint hydrocarbon exploration by Philippines, China does not involve Malaysian waters - Marzuki

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 30 -- The proposed joint hydrocarbon exploration between the Philippines and China will not involve Malaysian waters based on the maritime borders depicted in the 1979 Malaysian Map, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.

Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Marzuki Yahya said, however, Malaysia would continue to monitor the developments with regard to the case for the preservation of the country's sovereign rights and interests.

"Malaysia has a clear and consistent stance on the issue pertaining to the South China Sea to ensure continued security and stability in the region," he said, adding that the South China Sea was a sensitive and complex issue.

He was replying to Datuk Reezal Merican Naina Merican's (BN-Head of the Border) question on the effect the oil and gas exploration cooperation between China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) and the Philippine National Oil Company-Exploration Corporation (PNOC-EC) in the South China Sea, would have on the country

On the decision by the Philippines and China to establish joint hydrocarbon exploration through PNOC-EC and CNOOC, Marzuki said he believed the two countries had made reasonable considerations prior to reaching the agreement.

-- BERNAMA