JAKARTA — Indonesia is seeking clarity on China’s intent behind its maritime claims in the South China Sea to avoid the risk of miscalculations in a zone rich in natural gas, Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa said.

Indonesia wants an explanation for a map outlining China’s assertions in the South China Sea that appears on the nation’s passports and has asked the United Nations to help it obtain legal clarity, Dr Marty told Bloomberg in Jakarta yesterday. The Philippines last month challenged China’s claims to contested areas of the South China Sea at a UN tribunal.

“What needs to be better communicated is the intent behind these steps, so they don’t become inadvertently a new source of problem and challenge,” Dr Marty said.

The potential for misunderstanding meant there was a risk of minor incidents leading to a bigger crisis in the region, he said.

Read more: http://www.todayonline.com/world/asia/jakarta-seeks-clarification-beijing-claims-south-china-sea