Protecting vital sea lines of communication: A study of the proposed designation of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore as a particularly sensitive sea area

Abstract

The Strait of Malacca is considerably bordered by Malaysia and Indonesia while the Strait of Singapore is jointly shared by Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore. Together, both Straits serve not only as two of the most important sea lines of communication in the world, but are important economic lifelines for the coastal population especially in the fisheries and tourism industries. The historical, environmental and socio-economic values of the Straits have resulted in some of the areas within the Straits have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, RAMSAR Sites and a UNESCO Geopark. Nevertheless, with the increasing shipping traffic in the future, it is feared that the marine environment of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore might be damaged. Focusing on issues pertaining to vessel-source of marine pollution, this article discusses the question on whether or not the Straits of Malacca and Singapore may potentially fit to be designated as a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area. This article concludes by discussing the possible legal and political consequences that may arise out of such a designation.