Paris court rejects Sulu's attempt to enforce claim against Malaysia

16 March 2023

By Wartawan Nabalu News

KUALA LUMPUR: The Paris Court of Appeal has dismissed a challenge by the Sulu claimants seeking to enforce a purported final award against Malaysia.

The challenge was filed against a stay order obtained by Malaysia in July 2022, which prevented the enforcement of the purported final award issued by Dr. Gonzalo Stampa in February 2022.

"The stay order was granted on the basis that the purported award could impact Malaysia's territorial sovereignty.

"The hearing on the merits of the challenge was held on 16th January 2023, and the Paris Court of Appeal delivered its decision on 14th March 2023, ruling that the challenge was inadmissible.

"Malaysia welcomed the decision, stating that it reinforces its position that the purported commercial arbitration instituted by the Sulu claimants is without legitimate basis and does affect Malaysia's territorial sovereignty.

"Malaysia will continue to defend itself robustly in all legal fora against all forms of lawfare instituted by her adversaries," said the government's special secretariat to tackle the Sulu Sultanate's claims against the Malaysian government, today.

The Sulu claimants, who assert themselves as the heirs of Sultan Jamalul Kiram II, have long disputed Malaysia's claim to the state of Sabah.