China's Controversial New Map Sparks Outrage among Neighbors, India and Malaysia Take Firm Stance

China's latest move has sent shockwaves across its neighboring nations, particularly Indonesia. The cause of the uproar is the unveiling of China's "2023 China Standard Map" on Monday by the Ministry of Natural Resources, which has raised territorial concerns among multiple countries. The map not only encompasses land areas of other countries but also extends its territorial claims into the South China Sea (SCS).

photo: Bendera China. (VCG via Getty Images/VCG)

In the South China Sea (SCS), China has revised its territorial concept from nine dotted lines to ten. This modification notably includes the incorporation of Taiwan into its territory, thereby fueling a longstanding dispute. Taiwan has consistently regarded itself as an independent nation, despite China's opposing stance.

Photo: China's New Map, Ten-Dotted Line Configuration (Screenshot from @globaltimesnews)

India's Protest

India has swiftly responded to this development, lodging a formal protest against China on Tuesday. The inclusion of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region as part of China's official territory has stirred anger within India. Aksai Chin has been a longstanding point of contention between the two countries, resulting in a violent clash in 2020.

"We have lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with China regarding the so-called '2023 China Standard' map, which includes the territory of India," stated Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs. He further expressed India's rejection of these claims, labeling them as baseless and unconstructive to border dispute resolutions.

Malaysia's Stance

Malaysia, particularly concerning its interests in the South China Sea, has taken a resolute stance against China's map. Kuala Lumpur released a statement on Wednesday, categorically rejecting China's claims over Malaysian waters in the South China Sea as part of its territory.

"Malaysia does not recognize China's claims in the South China Sea... which include maritime areas of Malaysia," the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed. The ministry emphasized the complexity and sensitivity of the issue, advocating for peaceful and rational dialogues based on international law.

Other Countries' Reactions

As the fallout continues, Taiwan has not issued a comment on the matter. Likewise, other Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam and the Philippines, have remained quiet. These nations have historically faced tensions with China over South China Sea disputes.

It's worth noting that Indonesia had also protested China's actions in the South China Sea. In 2020, Indonesia expressed its outrage over violations of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) by Chinese vessels in the waters near the Natuna Islands.

The unveiling of China's new map has undeniably ignited a fresh wave of geopolitical tensions, further complicating the already intricate dynamics of the region.