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's agent Tommy Koh, who is Ambassador-At-Large at the republic's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, produced documents, statements and maps pertaining to their claim of sovereignty.

The Malaysian delegation is headed by Tan Sri Abdul Kadir Mohamad, Ambassador-At-Large and the Prime Minister's Adviser on Foreign Affairs.

The Malaysian legal team is headed by Attorney- General Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail.

Singapore will present its case until Friday. From Nov 13 to 16, Malaysia will present its arguments. This will be followed by a two-day second round of oral arguments by Singapore on Nov 19 and 20 and Malaysia on Nov 22 and 23.

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.