Indonesia's Foreign Ministry Affirms Malacca Strait Policy Based on UNCLOS

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) has dismissed discussions on imposing tariffs on ships transiting the Malacca Strait, as Indonesia adheres firmly to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Kemlu Spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang affirmed that Indonesia’s policies in the Malacca Strait are based on the international law of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

“All policies taken by the Indonesian Government regarding international shipping lanes, including in the Malacca Strait, will always be in line with international law, particularly UNCLOS,” Yvonne said when contacted on Saturday (25/4/2026).

Moreover, the Malacca Strait is one of the most strategic shipping routes for global trade and supply chains.

Therefore, Indonesia will continue to prioritise a measured approach based on international law.

“And coordinate with relevant countries to maintain regional stability and ensure that global shipping lanes remain safe, open, and stable,” she added.

Purbaya assessed that Indonesia’s position is highly strategic in global trade and energy routes. This potential is considered not yet optimally utilised.

However, Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono stated that Indonesia will not impose tariffs in the Malacca Strait.

This Gerindra Party politician also emphasised that Indonesia respects international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS.

“So, no. Indonesia is not in a position to do that (impose tariffs in the Malacca Strait),” Sugiono stressed, quoted from ANTARA on Thursday (23/4/2026).

Recently, Finance Minister Purbaya said that the discourse he floated to the public was not serious.