Malaysia has stressed the need for joint consultations among regional countries following Indonesia's proposal to impose taxes on merchant ships passing through the Strait of Malacca. This is seen as a strategic issue that requires comprehensive consideration.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan stated that any decision regarding the route must be made collectively, especially within the framework of ASEAN cooperation. A joint approach is important to ensure that the stability of bilateral and multilateral relations is maintained.
According to a report by Buletin TV3, Malaysia stressed its commitment to international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which guarantees freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of global trade without restrictions.
The proposal to impose fees on free routes such as the Strait of Malacca has the potential to spark international protests. This route is one of the most important in the world and any policy changes could have a major impact on trade and the global economy.
So far, Malaysia has not been involved in any official negotiations regarding the proposal. In the latest development, Indonesia has reportedly withdrawn the proposal, acknowledging that efforts to turn the strategic route into a source of revenue are not an easy or appropriate move.
