Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali
KUALA LUMPUR , Jan 24 – Malaysia has decided to establish a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to examine the handling of matters related to the sovereignty of Pedra Branca, Middle Rocks, and South Ledge, three maritime features at the eastern entrance of the Singapore Strait that are the subject of a territorial dispute with Singapore.
The decision was made at the Cabinet Meeting on Wednesday, following the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling in 2008 that awarded sovereignty over Pedra Branca to Singapore, while leaving Middle Rocks to Malaysia and South Ledge to the state in whose territorial waters it is located.
In a statement, Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali, said the establishment of the RCI is in line with the Commission of Inquiry Act 1950 (Act 119), and that the proposed membership of the RCI will be submitted for the approval of His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
He added that the proposed members will take into consideration the composition of experts with extensive experience in the fields of justice, law, and public administration, capable of conducting an investigation transparently, fairly, and impartially to avoid any issues involving conflicts of interest with relevant parties.
The RCI is expected to review the historical and legal aspects of the dispute, as well as the actions and decisions taken by the previous administrations in relation to the case. The RCI will also make recommendations on the best course of action for Malaysia to safeguard its sovereignty and national interests. – TNS News