CMG Fosters Regional Stability with Expert Committee on South China Sea Studies

On March 29, 2025, an important step towards fostering stability in the South China Sea was taken with the launch of the Expert Committee on South China Sea Studies by China Media Group (CMG) in Sanya, Hainan Province. The formation of this committee is expected to facilitate vital discussions among scholars, policymakers, and experts dedicated to maritime issues in the region.

The Expert Committee is composed of 28 distinguished scholars and professionals from various respected institutions, including the South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, the National Institute for South China Sea Studies, and other significant academic bodies. This diverse assembly not only showcases a range of expertise relevant to the complex maritime dynamics but also emphasizes a collaborative effort to address pressing regional challenges.

Wu Shicun, a committee member and the Chairman of the Huayang Research Center for Maritime Cooperation and Ocean Governance, pointed out that this initiative would significantly enhance policy discussions and foster intellectual exchanges concerning the South China Sea. He highlighted the diversity of backgrounds and multidisciplinary expertise among committee members, which is expected to contribute to the overarching goal of promoting peace and development in the area.

Ong Tee Keat, another influential figure within the committee and the former Minister of Transport of Malaysia, noted the timeliness of launching such a committee amidst growing regional tensions. Ong also emphasized that the cooperative ties between China and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) serve as an exemplary model of regional integration, underscoring the importance of constructive dialogue in achieving mutual goals.

In parallel with the establishment of the committee, CMG issued the Southeast Asia Perceptions Report on the South China Sea, which reflects public sentiments from six Southeast Asian nations including Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. The report, developed with support from the Global Public Opinion Research Center at Renmin University of China, presents findings that show a significant inclination towards resolving disputes through diplomatic channels and dialogue rather than military intervention.

The report revealed that citizens across the surveyed nations expressed apprehension towards external interference and voiced hopes for cooperative relations with China in regional matters. The strong desire for diplomatic resolution indicates a growing awareness of the complexities surrounding the South China Sea and highlights a collective push towards stability through collaborative efforts in the region.

The launch of the Expert Committee and the Southeast Asia Perceptions Report are significant indicators of CMG’s commitment to fostering peace and cooperation in the South China Sea through informed dialogue and multi-stakeholder engagement. The initiative aims to pool intellectual resources and develop strategies that address both practical and theoretical aspects of maritime governance, ultimately contributing to a more stable and cooperative regional framework.

In conclusion, these efforts represent a proactive response to ongoing challenges in the South China Sea and demonstrate a collective ambition among Asian nations to shape a peaceful and prosperous future through collaboration and mutual respect. The activities of the Expert Committee will be closely watched as countries navigate these turbulent waters, seeking avenues for sustained dialogue and cooperation within the region.