Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia Officials Meet To Boost Security At Sea

Indonesia, Philippines and Malaysia have together agreed in boosting up maritime security by running coordinated patrols.

Following the kidnappings of Indonesians by suspected Abu Sayyaf militants at sea the foreign ministers and military chiefs of Indonesia, Philippines and Malaysia held talks in Yogyakarta, ancient royal capital city nof Indonesia related to the joint patrols in protecting ships from robbery, kidnapping and other transnational crime at sea between the border areas.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said the confidence in trade and commerce may weaken if the issue is not addressed appropriately. This may also adversely effect the economic activities in the three countries and welfare of peoples too.

The area between Indonesia’s Sulawesi island and Zulu islands in southern Philippines is a strategic economic waterway and more than 55 million metric tons of crude pass through it along with over 18 million people.

Meanwhile, ten of 14 Indonesian crewmen were freed by Abu Sayyaf on Sunday. The men were seized this March at sea from three tugboats.

Last month the militant group beheaded Canadian John Ridsdel for non-payment of ransom of about $6.3 million.

Officials of the three nations are to meet again to formulate further procedures about the operation.

If you are well aware about the risky water route between Philippines and Indonesia, do share your own views how the governments of the three nations may best make it safe from militant attacks resulting with kidnapping and robbing. Use the below given comment box.