JAKARTA. Indonesia plans to start implementing coordinated patrols with the Philippines and Malaysia this year as part of efforts to step up maritime defense in regional waters amid the risks of piracy and hostage-taking. The Indonesian Navy is currently drafting the routes for the joint patrols, which would stretch to the piracy-prone waters of the Sulu Sea, to realize the trilateral maritime agreement signed by the three countries in August. Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu said on Tuesday. "I believe we can start the coordinated patrols this year. I will meet the Malaysian defense minister in the near future [to further discuss the plan]," Ryamizard told journalists.
Indonesia to start joint maritime patrols
JAKARTA. Indonesia plans to start implementing coordinated patrols with the Philippines and Malaysia this year as part of efforts to step up maritime defense in regional waters amid the risks of piracy and hostage-taking. The Indonesian Navy is currently drafting the routes for the joint patrols, which would stretch to the piracy-prone waters of the Sulu Sea, to realize the trilateral maritime agreement signed by the three countries in August. Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu said on Tuesday. "I believe we can start the coordinated patrols this year. I will meet the Malaysian defense minister in the near future [to further discuss the plan]," Ryamizard told journalists.