Malaysia’s actions suggest a strategic military buildup on Borneo despite perceptions of complacency regarding Chinese threats in the South China Sea.
While headlines focus on Malaysia’s perceived alignment with China, the country has quietly adopted a different on-the-ground strategy.
Malaysia is strengthening its military presence in the Malaysian Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak, operating beneath the radar.
Chinese vessels frequently enter Malaysia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), especially near the Luconia Shoals off Sarawak’s coast.
Malaysia’s economic dependence on China complicates its response, with bilateral trade reaching over $212 billion in 2024.
The government favors strategic hedging: avoiding public confrontation with China while secretly preparing for potential conflict.
Malaysia’s military buildup in Sabah and Sarawak reflects the recognition that diplomacy alone is insufficient amid expanding Chinese maritime tactics.
The South China Sea holds significant economic value for Malaysia, with oil and gas resources contributing over a fifth of public revenue.
The regional military strategy offers geographic depth and proximity to contested waters, facilitating power projection and defense.
The Royal Malaysian Air Force enhanced air surveillance in East Malaysia by deploying US-supplied AN/TP77 and French GM400A radars in 2023.
These radars enable Malaysia to monitor its EEZ airspace and detect aerial threats from the South China Sea.
In 2021, Chinese military aircraft entering Sarawak’s airspace prompted Malaysian fighter scramble responses.
New military infrastructure includes a naval command in Sarawak supporting submarine operations and a new air force bare base in Sarawak, with construction starting this year.
Malaysia established new military units in Sabah and Sarawak, including navy’s Squadron 503 operating U.S.-supplied ScanEagle UAVs based in Sabah.
Sarawak hosts the Malaysian Air Force’s No. 3 Squadron with AW 139 helicopters supporting maritime operations in South China Sea at five atolls.
Joint exercises are part of Malaysia’s efforts, including a 2024 sea and air exercise with France off Sabah involving combat aircraft and a frigate.
Japan assists Malaysia in enhancing its Coast Guard capabilities through joint exercises and training in maritime intrusions and forensic evidence gathering.
In 2023, Malaysia conducted its largest combined military exercise, EX ANGSA, near Sabah and Sarawak with over 2,500 personnel, 20 vessels, submarines, and combat aircraft.
Malaysia’s quiet strategic approach demonstrates how a smaller power can resist regional pressure while maintaining stability and sovereignty.
These actions serve as a potential model for calm yet firm regional resistance amid rising tensions in the maritime domain.
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