The development of Malaysia's position on Antarctica: 1982 to 2004

Abstract

This paper examines the development of Malaysia's position on the ‘Question of Antarctica’ and its relationship to the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS). Malaysia's challenges to, and criticisms of, the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties (ATCPs) are mapped from 1982 to 2004, indicating a shift from challenging the ATS to engagement with the ATCPs. The paper highlights how Malaysia's position on the ‘Question of Antarctica’ reflected a mix between domestic political concerns and its international and regional interests. The mix between domestic and international interests is reflected in the ongoing involvement of Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad, including his retirement in 2003, in shaping Malaysia's position, from initiating the challenge to the ATS in 1982 to recommending that Malaysia join the ATS in 2004. Mahathir's domestic agenda, most notably through Malaysia's ‘Vision 2020’ development program is identified as providing an impetus for change, increasing Malaysian scientific interest in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean.