Indonesia and Malaysia Conduct Joint Air Patrol to Secure Malacca Strait
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia and Malaysia have undertaken a joint air patrol over the strategic Malacca Strait, a critical artery for global trade. This operation, conducted on Friday, May 24, 2024, saw the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) dispatch two F-16 fighter jets, while the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM) deployed their F-18 Hornets.
The TNI-AU issued a press statement on Saturday confirming the participation of two F-16s from Squadron 16, which launched from Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base in Riau province. The aircraft, piloted by First Lieutenant Galih Rakasiwi and First Lieutenant Ghazi Umar Marzuq, rendezvoused with their Malaysian counterparts over the Strait of Malacca.
Air Commodore Feri Yunaldi, chief of Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base, highlighted the significance of this cooperation. “The Indonesian and Malaysian air forces are jointly committed to maintaining peace and security in the Malacca Strait,” Yunaldi stated. He emphasized that this patrol not only bolsters bilateral and military relations but also reaffirms both nations’ dedication to securing their airspace sovereignty.
“The joint air patrol demonstrates our shared commitment to regional peace and security, which is crucial for the economic growth and stability of the region,” Yunaldi added.
The Malacca Strait, nestled between Indonesia’s Sumatra Island and the Malaysian Peninsula, is a pivotal conduit connecting the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Its importance is underscored by the World Economic Forum, which notes that approximately 94,000 ships transit the strait annually, utilizing its over 40 ports and carrying nearly 30% of global traded goods.
Despite its vital role in global trade, the Malacca Strait is frequently plagued by piracy, robbery, and other maritime crimes, including human trafficking and smuggling. Notably, on February 29, 2024, the Dumai Naval Base in Riau province thwarted a robbery attempt by four pirates on the MV African Halcyon. The pirates fled on a speedboat as the Dumai Naval Base’s quick response team intervened.
The joint patrol by Indonesia and Malaysia is a proactive measure to mitigate such threats, ensuring the Malacca Strait remains secure for international navigation and commerce.
