Malaysia summons China's envoy over South China Sea encroachment

Malaysia's Foreign Ministry has summoned the Chinese ambassador to Malaysia Dr Huang Huikang to provide some clarification on reports that a large number of China fishing boats were sighted in Malaysia's maritime areas in the South China Sea.

The ministry, in a statement here, said it was also to register Malaysia's concerns over the matter.

"The Ministry would like to confirm news reports that a large number of Chinese-flagged fishing boats were sighted in Malaysia's maritime areas in the South China Sea.

"Based on reports received from the relevant Malaysia's authorities, the Chinese-flagged fishing boats, while navigating in Malaysias maritime areas in the South China Sea, were accompanied by Chinese Coast Guard vessel," according to the statement.

The statement said the ministry believed that the close, extensive and deep-rooted friendship between Malaysia and China had been elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership, with mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, mutual benefit, and peaceful co-existence.

"In this connection, Malaysia is confident that with goodwill and sincerity, Malaysia and China would be able to find amicable resolution on any issues between both countries," the statement added.