KUALA LUMPUR: Asean member states said it was crucial to put in place preventive measures to ensure disagreement amongst parties on overlapping claims relating to the South China Sea.
Foreign Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman said it was important so that it does not escalate into a situation that may undermine peace, security, and stability.
"We agreed that it is imperative that this matter is handled constructively and explored the possibility of putting in place preventive measures.
"We also agreed that exercising self restraint in the conduct of activities that will complicate or escalate tension must be enhanced," he said during a press conference, here today.
Anifah also said the matters pertaining to land reclamation in the South China Sea was discussed extensively during the Plenary and Retreat Sessions at the 48th Asean Foreign Ministers Meeting (AMM) held earlier today.
He said the member states reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, security and stability as well as freedom of navigation and over-flight over the South China Sea as it is an important sea lane of communication for regional and international trade and commerce.
Beijing claims control over nearly all of the South China Sea, a key shipping route. Countries namely Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei also have various claims as does Taiwan, many of which overlap.