Written by Kenji Tanaka |
Malaysia maritime enforcement agency arrested 58 Chinese fishermen and impounded four vessels on Saturday after a six-hour confrontation in disputed waters near Sarawak. The vessels were found inside Malaysia claimed Exclusive Economic Zone in the South China Sea. China consulate in Kuching demanded immediate release. Malaysia prime minister office said the arrests were fully within our jurisdiction and refused to negotiate. Vietnam and the Philippines both issued statements backing Malaysia right to enforce its maritime claims.
Sources: Reuters, AP, Malay Mail, The Star Malaysia, BBC, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post