Beting Patinggi Ali belongs to Malaysia, says Defence Ministry

KUALA LUMPUR: Beting Patinggi Ali, in Sarawak is within Malaysia's sovereignty, says the Defence Ministry.

The ministry clarified that it had never acknowledged claims to Beting Patinggi Ali from any parties as the area was within Malaysia's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

"In terms of geography, Beting Patinggi Ali is located 84 nautical miles off the coast of Miri in Sarawak, which is within the country's EEZ.

"Preserving and protecting the nation's sovereignty will always be the priority of the ministry and the Armed Forces," the ministry said in a statement Friday (Jan 27).

The ministry was commenting on reports over claims on Beting Patinggi Ali recently.