Politik Luar Negeri Malaysia dalam Pengklaiman Kepemilikan Kepulauan Spratly di Laut Cina Selatan

Abstract

The South China Sea, rich in natural resources and vital trade routes, has become a focal point of dispute between several countries. One of the islands in the South China Sea that has overlapping claims is the Spratly Islands. Malaysia's claim itself is based on geographical proximity, especially the provisions of the continental shelf in UNCLOS. Its claim dates back to 1979, when the Malaysian government first published a map showing the country's continental shelf and EEZ stretching to the southernmost part of the Spratly Islands. This study aims to explain Malaysia's national interests in claiming the Spratly Islands and analyze Malaysia's foreign policy efforts in responding to the claim. This study uses the theory of National Interest and the theory of Foreign Policy. By using a descriptive qualitative research method using a literature study technique. Based on the results of the study, it shows that Malaysia has national interests, such as economic interests arising from resources in the Spratly Islands and sovereign security interests that strengthen Malaysia's maritime territory. Malaysia's foreign policy efforts are by cooperating based on the UN Convention on the Sea (UNCLOS 1982), then highlighting the importance of regional cooperation through ASEAN in resolving the dispute in the Spratly Islands, and Malaysia's approach to this dispute emphasizes diplomatic engagement with China to reduce tensions. Malaysia is committed to resolving issues related to the South China Sea peacefully and constructively, using appropriate diplomatic forums and channels.