Audit: 89 intrusions by Chinese vessels in Malaysian waters

The National Audit Department (NAD) said the China Coast Guard (CCG) and People's Liberation Army Navy (Plan) was recorded encroaching Malaysian waters 89 times between 2016 and 2019.

The auditor-general also noted that the Chinese government repeatedly ignored protest notes on the incursions.

According to the NAD report titled "Ministry Activities/Federal Government Department and Statutory Body 2018 Series 3" released today, the auditor-general said 72 incursions were by the CCG while 17 were by Plan.

"The audit is of the opinion that the presence of the CCG and Plan was to show Chinese presence due to its claim over the South China Sea, in particular the Beting Patinggi Ali (region)," read the report.

Malaysia maintains a constant presence at the uninhabited Beting Patinggi Ali, otherwise known as Luconia Shoals, just 84 nautical miles off the coast of Miri, Sarawak.

According to the audit report, the Malaysian Navy had responded by chasing away the intruders and demanding the Foreign Ministry take action.

Six diplomatic protests were lodged within the relevant period. However, the CCG and Plan continue to encroach the area.

The audit noted that although the Navy had shown its capabilities in protecting Beting Patinggi Ali, it was recommended that the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency maintain a long-term presence in the area.

- Mkini