Publication

This paper analyzes Malaysia's strategy towards the territorial disputes in the South China Sea. In general, the author argues that in spite of adjustments made after an increase in Chinese assertiveness in 2013 and 2014, Malaysia continues to follow a policy towards the South China Sea in which it pursues its interests in the region while being careful not to disrupt its relations with China. He also contends that while this approach means there is still room for US-Malaysia collaboration, it also means that it is unlikely that Malaysia will participate in initiatives that directly counter Chinese coercion in the South China Sea.