The Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP ISC) has reported encouraging news for the week of 19–25 August 2025. No incidents of piracy or armed robbery against ships were recorded across Asia, reflecting a positive trend in maritime security.
While this is a welcome development, the ReCAAP ISC continues to urge vigilance, particularly in high-risk areas such as the Straits of Malacca and Singapore.
Piracy Situation in Asian Waters
During the reporting week, no new incidents were observed, highlighting effective surveillance and preventive measures adopted by regional authorities and shipping operators.
However, ReCAAP ISC emphasizes that ships must maintain strict watchkeeping, especially when anchoring or transiting through vulnerable zones. Coastal and littoral states have also been advised to strengthen patrols and law enforcement to ensure the continued safety of seafarers and maritime assets.
Abduction Threat in the Sulu-Celebes Seas
For the fifth consecutive year, no abduction of crew incidents were reported in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and waters off Eastern Sabah. The last such case dates back to 17 January 2020. In January 2025, the Philippine Coast Guard, together with regional partners, further downgraded the threat level to ‘LOW’, meaning no imminent attacks are anticipated.
Despite this positive outlook, ReCAAP ISC’s advisory issued in February 2025 urges ship operators to remain cautious, maintain communication with authorities, and report any unusual activities.
Recommendations for Ship Operators
To reinforce maritime safety, ship masters and crew are advised to:
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Report all incidents promptly to the nearest coastal and flag states.
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Follow preventive measures as outlined in the Regional Guide 2 to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia.
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Refer to ReCAAP ISC’s updated posters and contact lists for incident reporting.
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Exercise heightened vigilance when navigating high-risk areas, even with the current decline in incidents.
The absence of piracy and armed robbery incidents across Asia for the week of 19–25 August 2025, along with sustained peace in the Sulu-Celebes Seas, signals significant progress in regional maritime security. Nonetheless, continued vigilance, international cooperation, and adherence to ReCAAP ISC’s guidelines remain essential to safeguard seafarers, cargo, and vessels.
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Source: SAFETY4SEA
