Indonesia plans to charge fees for ships passing through Strait of Malacca

JAKARTA, April 22 (YPA) – Indonesian Finance Minister Purbayo Yudhi Sadiwa announced on Wednesday that his country plans to establish a toll system for ships transiting the Strait of Malacca.

In remarks reported by the Jakarta Globe, the minister noted that Indonesia lies on a vital global trade and energy route, despite not currently charging tolls for ships passing through the strait.

He indicated that Indonesia intends to implement this system in coordination with neighboring countries, as part of President Prabowo Subianto’s vision to enhance the country’s role in global trade.

Sadiwa added that the plan is still in its early stages and may not be implemented soon, given the difficulty of reaching an agreement with the coastal states and the possibility of provoking reactions.

Meanwhile, Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan stated that the war in the Middle East has highlighted the importance of vital maritime chokepoints.

He added, according to CNBC, that the right of passage is guaranteed for everyone, stressing that his country will not participate in any efforts to close or obstruct waterways or impose fees on passing ships.

The Strait of Malacca connects the Indian and Pacific Oceans and is the shortest sea route between Middle Eastern suppliers and Asian importers. It lies between Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

YPA