China's Actions in South China Sea Criticized

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reassured fishermen in the South China Sea not to fear the presence of a Chinese Coast Guard vessel, emphasizing Malaysia's continuous maritime monitoring. Meanwhile, foreign ministers from the Quad nations—Australia, India, Japan, and the United States—expressed serious concerns over China's coercive actions in the South China Sea and pledged to bolster maritime security. They reiterated opposition to any unilateral actions that alter the status quo by force. Additionally, China and Russia have deepened their military cooperation, conducting unprecedented joint patrols near Alaska, which was intercepted by NORAD. This move has been condemned by U.S. officials as a significant provocation. Beijing and Moscow's growing ties are seen as part of a broader strategic alignment against Western interests.