Singapore presented its case regarding sovereignty of three disputed islands in the Pacific Ocean at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) at The Hague on Tuesday, a claim disputed by Malaysia.

The case began in 2003, when both Southeast Asian countries presented their dispute to the ICJ. Each country claims that the islands of Pedra Blanca or Pulau Batu Puteh, Middle Rocks and South Ledge belong to them.

Singapore and Kuala Lumpur said they would respect the decision of the international court.

Singapore will present its case until Friday. From November 13 to 16, Malaysia will present its arguments. The ICJ will take some months to decide on the case.

As the highest judicial organ of the United Nations, the ICJ settles differences between member states, which are not subject to appeal.