But the two countries are likely to avoid escalating matters, observers say, partly because Malaysia – battling its worst coronavirus outbreak so far– is under growing economic pressure and has reasons for maintaining a cordial relationship with China.
A military source had previously told the South China Morning Post that only two Chinese transport planes had been sent, to deliver supplies to troops stationed in the South China Sea. “This incident is more likely directed at demonstrating its new-found military power projection capabilities, contrasting with a Malaysian air force well known to be under-strength and under-resourced,” Koh said. “The Chinese might want to show that they’re now better equipped for escalating dominance.”
Besides its claims in the Spratly Islands, Malaysia’s involvement in the South China Sea dispute also includes Luconia Shoals, off Sarawak, which is home to significant fishing and hydrocarbon resources. “Given the global vaccine shortage, China has become an important source of doses for Malaysia,” Koh said. “There’s a raft of incentives for Malaysia to maintain a buoyant and cordial relationship with China and try not to rock the boat unnecessarily.”
Yan said that under international law, air traffic control does not define sovereign airspace and it is not compulsory for military planes – which enjoy freedom of overflight in EEZs – to contact air traffic control under International Civil Aviation Organization protocols.
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