KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s King has approved the establishment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to review matters pertaining to the sovereignty of Pedra Branca, Middle Rocks, and South Ledge. The decision follows a proposal by the Malaysian government, with the Prime Minister’s Department leading the initiative, Bernama news agency reported.
The Prime Minister’s Department’s Legal Affairs Division director general, Zamri Misman, and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Law and Institutional Reform, Azalina Othman Said, were received in an audience by the king, where they presented the proposal for the RCI’s establishment. The news was reported by Bernama news agency.
In accordance with the Commissions of Enquiry Act 1950, the establishment of the RCI was deemed appropriate by the department, as stated in a press release on Wednesday.
Malaysia Forms Royal Commission of Inquiry
Key appointments to the RCI include former Chief Justice Md Raus Sharif as the chairman and former Federal Court Judge Zainun Ali as the deputy chairman. Additionally, seven other members have been appointed, including individuals with expertise in various fields.
The RCI, typically composed of former judges, serves as a fact-finding body tasked with investigating and presenting its findings in a comprehensive report.
Despite ongoing discussions between representatives of both governments through a Joint Technical Committee, including matters concerning South Ledge’s sovereignty, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has advocated for a review of Malaysia’s stance.
Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has responded, stating that the RCI is an internal matter of Malaysia and affirming its commitment to maintaining good bilateral relations with Malaysia.
