Strait of Malacca: Malaysian Scholars Highlight Future Variables in Critical Waterway
As geopolitical tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz, Malaysian scholars are drawing attention to the Strait of Malacca. While currently stable, its role as a global energy and trade lifeline faces potential future variables that require regional cooperation and international law.
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- 📰 Published: April 28, 2026 at 15:47
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Central News Agency (Kuala Lumpur, 28th) - Escalating geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have shifted focus toward another vital energy shipping route: the Strait of Malacca. Malaysian scholars point out that while both are critical hubs, their security situations differ; Malacca remains stable for now, but potential conflict variables must be monitored closely.
The ongoing conflict in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world's oil and LNG pass, has seen shipping restricted since U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran began on Feb 28. In this context, the Strait of Malacca, situated between the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra, is under the spotlight.
Malaysian Defense Minister Khaled Nordin stated during a defense exhibition visit that the Strait of Malacca does not currently face the same predicament as Hormuz. He emphasized that Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore will adhere to international law to ensure freedom of trade and navigation.
Professor Salawati from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) noted that the 900-kilometer strait is the most efficient route between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), littoral states like Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand cannot legally obstruct foreign vessels or impose tolls. Political analyst Tunku Mohar added that nearly one-fourth of global trade passes through this channel, making its freedom essential for East Asia's energy supply.
Louis Augustin-Jean, an honorary researcher at Paris 13 University who has taught in Hong Kong and Japan, told CNA that the strait carries approximately $3.5 trillion in annual trade. It is of immense strategic value to China, which relies on it for two-thirds of its maritime trade and 80% of its oil imports. He warned that while international law provides a framework, 'without sufficient naval force to maintain it, the law itself is difficult to enforce.'
Currently, the Strait of Malacca handles 21 million barrels of oil daily—about 20% of global supply—and 20% of global LNG. Last year, 100 to 500 ships passed through daily. Maintaining its stable operation amid rising geopolitical competition will depend on regional cooperation and international legal mechanisms. (Editor: Chen Hui-ping) 1150428
The ongoing conflict in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world's oil and LNG pass, has seen shipping restricted since U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran began on Feb 28. In this context, the Strait of Malacca, situated between the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra, is under the spotlight.
Malaysian Defense Minister Khaled Nordin stated during a defense exhibition visit that the Strait of Malacca does not currently face the same predicament as Hormuz. He emphasized that Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore will adhere to international law to ensure freedom of trade and navigation.
Professor Salawati from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) noted that the 900-kilometer strait is the most efficient route between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), littoral states like Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand cannot legally obstruct foreign vessels or impose tolls. Political analyst Tunku Mohar added that nearly one-fourth of global trade passes through this channel, making its freedom essential for East Asia's energy supply.
Louis Augustin-Jean, an honorary researcher at Paris 13 University who has taught in Hong Kong and Japan, told CNA that the strait carries approximately $3.5 trillion in annual trade. It is of immense strategic value to China, which relies on it for two-thirds of its maritime trade and 80% of its oil imports. He warned that while international law provides a framework, 'without sufficient naval force to maintain it, the law itself is difficult to enforce.'
Currently, the Strait of Malacca handles 21 million barrels of oil daily—about 20% of global supply—and 20% of global LNG. Last year, 100 to 500 ships passed through daily. Maintaining its stable operation amid rising geopolitical competition will depend on regional cooperation and international legal mechanisms. (Editor: Chen Hui-ping) 1150428