Maritime Terrorism In Southeast Asia: A Risk Assessment

Abstract

This article seeks to investigate the extent of the threat posed by maritime terrorism to commercial ports and shipping in Southeast Asia. It will focus in particular on the threat from the terrorist groups located in Indonesia and the Philippines and the vulnerability of vessels passing through Southeast Asia’s strategic sea-lanes. The article finds that there are inherent weaknesses present in the maritime transport industry. It also finds that there are terrorist groups in the region with maritime capabilities who possess the motives to target Western and economic interests. This necessitates the conclusion that maritime terrorism is a threat to commercial ports and shipping. The article then finds that the extent of the threat from maritime terrorism has increased in recent years, especially since the terrorist attack against the US on 11 September 2001. Finally, the article briefly discusses the potential consequences of a maritime terrorist attack and possible counter-measures and risk-treatment options.