The Role of the South China Sea, Sulu Sea, and Celebes Sea as Catalysts for Malaysia’s Agenda as a Global Maritime Nation

Abstract

The Sulu Sea and Celebes Sea are two important maritime areas that connect Malaysia with neighboring countries in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. In the context of Malaysia’s geopolitics, geo-economics, and geostrategy, these seas play a significant role in influencing the country's foreign policy, maritime security, and regional and international relations. This article aims to examine the importance of the South China Sea, Sulu Sea, and Celebes Sea to Malaysia, with a focus on aspects related to maritime boundaries, maritime security threats, and the management of natural resources. The central question addressed is how these maritime regions affect Malaysia’s political and economic stability, as well as the challenges the country faces in ensuring continued maritime security and regional stability. This study adopts a qualitative approach by analyzing various data sources, including official documents, international reports, and previous studies on the geopolitics of the South China Sea, Sulu Sea, and Celebes Sea. This methodology allows for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities Malaysia encounters in navigating maritime issues. The article applies theories of geopolitics, geo-economics, and geostrategy within a conceptual framework that views these seas as central to the interests of major powers and regional actors involved in the contest for natural resources and control of global trade routes. The discussion highlights several key issues, including territorial boundary disputes between Malaysia and neighboring countries, security threats arising from piracy and transnational crime, and Malaysia’s role in ensuring the sustainability of valuable marine resources. Findings indicate that, although Malaysia has substantial strategic interests in these seas, numerous challenges remain. These must be addressed through regional diplomacy, strengthened maritime security cooperation, and enhanced enforcement of maritime law.