Malaysian Expert Dr. Salawati Mat Basir: “Peace and Cooperation” Are the Key Words for the Future of the South China Sea

Amid the unprecedented global changes of the century, the stability of the South China Sea and the construction of cooperative mechanisms remain at the heart of regional concerns. Recently, Dr. Salawati Mat Basir, a professor at the National University of Malaysia (UKM), granted an exclusive interview to China-ASEAN Observation, offering an in-depth analysis of the phased significance, ongoing challenges, and prospects of the “Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC)” from the perspective of regional countries.

Prior to joining UKM, Dr. Sarawati Mat Basir held roles as a practising Advocate & Solicitor, legal officer at multinational company and international trade officer with Namibia High Commission in Kuala Lumpur. She holds a Bachelor of Laws, a Master of Laws, and a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the National University of Malaysia.

Currently, she teaches Comparative Foreign Policy and Defense Policy at the Malaysian Armed Forces Defense College. At the National University of Malaysia, she also offers courses on Public International Law, Foreign Policy and National Security, and Comparative Defense Policy. Her research spans topics such as globalisation and regional security, Southeast Asian international law and development, maritime security, South China Sea disputes, and defence policy.

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COA：The “Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC)” has recently completed its third reading. How do you assess its value in establishing a rules-based framework for the South China Sea?

Salawati Mat Basir：It is fundamental to recognise that in any conflict, especially one involving regional issues，a clear mechanism is needed to facilitate resolution. The COC, following the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), plays a crucial role in this context. At this particular moment, China’s willingness to engage in discussions about the COC, especially as Malaysia becomes the ASEAN chairmanship, is significant. This willingness is very important for other ASEAN countries that are claimants in the South China Sea.

COA：What efforts are needed for the next steps in COC consultations?

Salawati Mat Basir：As I mentioned at the conference, two critical factors must be taken into account regarding national sovereignty. ASEAN does not want to compromise the sovereignty of any member state. We cannot trade economy benefits for  sovereignty, yet economic considerations are equally important. Therefore, we need to strive for a win-win situation where negotiations occur without any country compromising its sovereignty.

The dynamics in Southeast Asia are always influenced by the Indo-Pacific context, particularly the role of the United States. The U.S. brings its friends and allies together into the discussion, including European nations like France, Belgium, Germany, Canada, and so forth.

Their involvement raises questions about their interests in the South China Sea. The G7's statements regarding China also illustrate this external interference, which I believe complicates the situation. I urge that the South China Sea issue be addressed solely between China and the ASEAN claimant states.

I firmly believe that diplomacy and negotiation are the best paths forward. While it is a long journey ahead, there is at least a way to progress, rather than remaining in conflict and allowing foreign intervention to exacerbate the situation. Such interference does not bring good; instead, it worsens the situation. Therefore, China’s readiness to sit down with ASEAN on the COC is a positive sign.

The China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park in Qinzhou, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, June 13, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

COA：What core challenges do you identify in establishing cooperative mechanisms for the South China Sea?

Salawati Mat Basir：One of the primary challenges is resource competition. As resources become scarcer, countries will inevitably compete for them. China, due to its huge population, will also seek resources, as will Indonesia, Malaysia, and others. Such competitions can result in a tense atmosphere if not managed carefully from the outset.

COA：If asked to convey a key message about the future of the South China Sea, what key phrases would you emphasise and why?

Salawati Mat Basir：I would emphasise “peace” and “cooperation”. Everyone desires peace. We don't want ASEAN to experience conflicts similar to those in the Middle East or elsewhere. We have already achieved peace and prosperity, and we want everybody to be happy, as I mentioned. However, it is crucial to ensure that the sovereignty of each country is protected.

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