Malaysia disputes Indonesian media reports on Sabah border, says talks ongoing

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by SCMP’s Asia deskJanuary 27, 2026 at 08:44 AM

AI Summary

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Malaysia has disputed Indonesian media reports claiming a land trade regarding the Sabah-Kalimantan border on Borneo, stating that negotiations are still ongoing. Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan emphasized that no final decision has been made and that discrepancies exist between maps and the actual terrain. This response follows reports in Indonesia, where Secretary of the National Agency for Border Management Makhruzi Rahman announced that three villages in Nunukan regency, North Kalimantan, had been designated as Malaysian territory following a memorandum of understanding signed in February 2023. The villages of Kabulangalor, Lepaga, and Tetagas are reportedly affected. Malaysia has indicated that a technical committee will further investigate the border demarcation before leaders from both countries reach a final agreement.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Kompas 40% Sebatik Island 40% Bernama 50% North Kalimantan 50% Borneo 60% Makhruzi Rahman 60% Nunukan regency ×260% Sabah 70% Kalimantan ×270% Mohamad Hasan 70% Indonesia ×380% Malaysia ×490%

Keywords

border dispute 90% sabah-kalimantan border 80% land trade 70% negotiations 70% malaysian territory 60% technical committee 50% border management 50% surveyors 40% memorandum of understanding 40%