The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has adopted the joint-proposal by Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to introduce a mandatory ship reporting system in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. The ship reporting system, known as STRAITREP, was adopted at the 69th session of the IMO's Maritime Safety Committee (MSC69) and would be implemented on 1 December 1998. The introduction of STRAITREP, which is provided for under the International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) will contribute towards navigational safety, efficiency of navigation and the protection of the marine environment in the Straits.

From 1 December 1998, ships plying the Straits of Malacca and Singapore will have to participate in STRAITREP by reporting to the shore-based authorities of the coastal states. The ships that will be required to participate include vessels of 300 gross tonnage (GT) and above; vessels of 50 metres or more in length; vessels of any tonnage carrying hazardous cargo, and all passenger vessels that are fitted with VHF, regardless of length or GT. STRAITREP will facilitate and enhance identification and communication between ships and shore-based authorities. This will enable shore-based authorities to advise transiting ships on the traffic situation in the Straits, as well as contribute positively towards search-and-rescue (SAR) operations and responses to marine incidents.

Under STRAITREP, a ship is required to provide shore-based authorities with information such as its name and call-sign, position, course and speed. The information requirements are based on IMO recommendations on ship reporting systems and are kept to a minimum so as not to unduly inconvenience shipping in the Straits.

The operational area of STRAITREP spans the Straits of Malacca and Singapore between longitude 100° 40'E and 104° 23'E. This area is divided into 9 reporting sectors. Ships in sectors 1 to 6 are required to report to the Klang and Johor Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) in Malaysia, while ships in sectors 7 to 9 are required to report to Singapore VTS, which is operated by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA).

Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore have worked closely since early 1997 towards the introduction of STRAITREP in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. The joint-STRAITREP proposal was well-received at the IMO and several IMO delegates gave their support for the early implementation of the system.

End of Statement.