MARITIME disputes between states and international stakeholders in the region are not always about the ownership of territories. The disputes can be over access to the maritime space, including access through sea lanes of communications for international commerce. There are stakeholders who have expressed an unfounded fear that China could interdict international trade through the South China Sea in peace time. Since 1999, China has imposed restrictions for fishing in the South China Sea between May and August each year for conservation and sustainability purposes. Similarly, the dispute between Japan, China and Taiwan over the ownership of Senkaku/ Diaoyu/Tiaoyutai Islands has its roots in history.

Source: New Strait Times December 25, 2017 00:56 UTC