South China Sea could be 'deadliest conflict of our time': Malaysia defence chief
"Just because a region appears to be peaceful and prosperous doesn't mean the prospects of conflict do not arise," Malaysian Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein says.
SINGAPORE: Malaysia's Minister for Defence Hishammuddin Hussein on Saturday (May 30) warned that the South China Sea conflict could become one of the deadliest conflicts the world has ever known.
Mr Hishammuddin addressed defence delegates at the Shangri-La Dialogue, saying new global challenges are emerging from longstanding conflicts, and urging the rule of law be followed in the disputed territory.
"If we are not careful it would escalate into one of the deadliest conflict of our time, if not our history," he said. "Just because a region appears to be peaceful and prosperous doesn't mean the prospects of conflict do not arise."
The United States and China have openly voiced their opposing views on the sovereignty of the South China Sea, with the US describing China's increasing land reclamation, and the possible deployment of weaponry on artificial islands, as deeply concerning, unprecedented and destabilising.
Beijing argues it has acted with restraint and blames the United States for contributing to the rising divisions in the region.
Mr Hishammuddin said all parties must take responsibility to maintain peace and stability. "Inflamed rhetoric and mutual recrimination will do no country any good. It is perhaps too optimistic to believe that we can prevent conflict and its escalation all the time and every time."
He added that countries can act how they see fit in their sovereign areas but should be aware of the consequences of their decisions. "This world cannot afford another global conflict. This world cannot afford more uncertainty, instability, death and destruction."
Mr Hishammuddin also briefly addressed the ongoing Rohingya migrant crisis affecting the region, saying Malaysia is taking leadership on the matter. He said he believed countries would face this issue in the "ASEAN way" but suggested Myanmar had a more leading role to play.
"This issue can only be resolved by a just and comprehensive settlement at the source," he said.
- CNA/kk