Indonesia clarifies that it will not impose tolls in Malacca Strait

Following earlier remarks suggesting that Indonesia was exploring the possibility of imposing tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Malacca, the country’s Finance Minister, Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, later clarified that no such plan is under consideration.

Speaking at a press conference, the Indonesian Finance Minister emphasized that Indonesia would adhere to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which governs international navigation rights and does not permit such charges.

The initial comments, in which Sadewa speculated about ways to monetize the strategic waterway, drew significant attention before he acknowledged that implementing tolls would not be feasible.

Responding to the discussion, Malaysia’s Foreign Minister, Mohamad Hasan, stressed that decisions concerning the Strait of Malacca cannot be made unilaterally, noting that regional countries follow a consensus-based approach to maritime governance.

He added that Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand maintain close coordination on the issue, including joint patrols to ensure the safe passage of ships through the strait.

source : safety4sea