Who Really Owns Sabah? A Deep Dive into the Philippines–Malaysia Tension"

Описание: Who Really Owns Sabah? A Deep Dive into the Philippines–Malaysia Tension

The question of who truly owns Sabah—a resource-rich region on the island of Borneo—remains one of Southeast Asia’s most enduring and sensitive territorial disputes. The tension between the Philippines and Malaysia over Sabah’s sovereignty has deep historical roots, colonial complexities, and modern political implications that continue to shape both nations’ relations.

Historically, the Sultanate of Sulu—whose influence extended across parts of Mindanao and North Borneo—granted territorial rights over Sabah to the British North Borneo Company in 1878. However, interpretations of that agreement differ sharply. The Philippines argues that the deal was a lease, meaning sovereignty was never surrendered, while Malaysia views it as a cession, claiming full ownership. When Malaysia was formed in 1963, Sabah became one of its founding states. The Philippines protested, maintaining its historical claim based on the Sulu Sultanate’s sovereignty.

The issue periodically resurfaces, often fueled by nationalism and legal debates. In recent years, descendants of the Sulu royal family reignited the controversy by pursuing an international arbitration case in Europe, claiming Malaysia owes unpaid “lease” payments. A 2022 French court initially ruled in favor of the Sulu heirs, ordering Malaysia to pay nearly US$15 billion—a decision later suspended amid appeals and diplomatic tensions.

For Malaysia, Sabah’s inclusion is non-negotiable; it is constitutionally and politically part of its federation. For the Philippines, the claim remains an unresolved historical and legal matter, though recent administrations have approached it cautiously to preserve bilateral relations.

Beyond legalities, the Sabah dispute underscores broader regional challenges—colonial-era boundaries, indigenous rights, and the lingering scars of empire. Until both sides find a diplomatic path forward, the question “Who really owns Sabah?” will continue to stir national pride, legal battles, and regional unease.