Dear Colleagues.
I have just heard that the Court decided to award Pedra Branca to
Singapore and Middle Rocks to Malaysia.
Apparently no decision was made in respect of Karang Selatin [South
Ledge]. Karang Selatin is a low-tide elevation about 1.7 nm south of
Middle Rocks. It consists of three rocks of which only the most
northerly dries about 2.4 metres. This low-tide elevation lies
within Malaysia's 12 nm territorial sea generated by Middle Rocks.
Malaysia will be able to claim the feature according to Article 13 of
UNCLOS.
The decision appears to restrict Singaporean claims to areas
northwards from Pedra Branca. An area within lines of strict
equidistance north of Pedra Branca would enclose an area about 160
square nm.
It will be interesting to see whether Singapore can secure strict
lines of equidistance from such a small feature.
Sincerely
Victor
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