Prabowo and Wong agree Strait of Malacca must remain a free passage

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong have jointly pledged to maintain the Strait of Malacca as a free and open international shipping lane. The commitment was made during a joint press statement following their bilateral meeting in Jakarta on Monday, July 6, 2026.

Both leaders highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Malacca, which lies adjacent to both their nations. President Prabowo stated that Indonesia and Singapore share a common interest in preserving the waterway's security, peace, and safety, addressing concerns such as pollution, accidents, and piracy. He added that they would collaborate with Malaysia and Thailand to ensure the strait remains open for all parties, adhering to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982.

Prime Minister Wong noted that the strategic significance of the Strait of Malacca has gained renewed attention following disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz due to Middle East conflicts, which significantly impacted Singapore. He reiterated that both Singapore and Indonesia have a shared interest in guaranteeing freedom of navigation in the Strait of Malacca, including the right of transit passage for vessels in accordance with international law.

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We must maintain security, peace in that strait, and also safety from pollution, accidents, and piracy.

The leaders, meeting for the 2026 Singapore-Indonesia Annual Leaders' Retreat, also discussed other bilateral matters. The Indonesian Cabinet Secretary indicated that around 26 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were scheduled to be signed during the meeting, covering various areas of cooperation.

The Strait of Malacca is one of the world's busiest shipping lanes, crucial for trade between East Asia and Europe. Its security and accessibility are vital for regional and global economies.

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Singapore and Indonesia both have similar interests in guaranteeing the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Malacca. Including the right of transit for ships in accordance with UNCLOS, which is also international law.