KL to continue S. China Sea oil exploration despite Beijing's protests

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on Sept 5 the country will not stop its oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea despite claims by Beijing that Malaysia was infringing on its territory.

Datuk Seri Anwar, speaking during an official trip to Russia, said Malaysia's exploration activities were within its territory and not intended to be provocative or hostile towards China, with whom it has friendly relations.

"Of course, we will have to operate in our waters and secure economic advantage, including drilling for oil, in our territory," he said in a televised press conference in Vladivostok.

"We have never denied the possibility of discussion (with China). But it doesn't mean we have to stop the operation in our area."