Singapore and Indonesia 'strategically aligned' to keep Strait of Malacca and Singapore open to all: PM Wong

Jakarta, July 6, 2026 — Singapore and Indonesia have pledged to work closely together to keep the Strait of Malacca and Singapore open and secure, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced after meeting Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the annual leaders’ retreat. The two leaders stressed that the strait — one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans — must remain safe and accessible to all vessels. Mr Wong said both countries are “strategically aligned” in upholding freedom of navigation under international law. President Prabowo reaffirmed Indonesia’s long-standing position, noting that Singapore and Indonesia will continue to coordinate with Malaysia and Thailand to guard against piracy, pollution, and accidents. “We must preserve peace and security in the strait,” he said, adding that Indonesia’s commitment to partnership with Singapore has been consistent for decades. The talks also touched on the Middle East conflict, which had disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz earlier this year. Both leaders warned that restricting passage in one international waterway could set a dangerous precedent for others, including the Strait of Malacca. Beyond maritime security, Singapore and Indonesia agreed to strengthen supply chain resilience. Their economic ministers issued a joint statement urging global markets to remain open and calling for swift ratification of ASEAN agreements to better withstand external shocks. The retreat underscored a shared message: Singapore and Indonesia see the Strait of Malacca not just as a regional lifeline, but as a global artery that must remain free and open. Would you like me to expand on why the Strait of Malacca is vital for global trade, ASEAN’s role in maritime cooperation, or how Middle East tensions affect Asia’s shipping?