Recently in 2025, three notable incidents of piracy and armed robbery occurred in Asian waters. Two Category 4 (CAT 4) incidents were reported on board tankers anchored in Malaysia and the Philippines, while a Category 3 (CAT 3) incident took place onboard a tanker transiting the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) in the Singapore Strait (SS).
In one case, a crew member was tied up, though fortunately, no injuries were reported across all incidents. Ship stores and engine spares were stolen in two cases, while nothing was taken in the third.
Areas of Concern and Security Situation
The new incident in the Singapore Strait brings the total number of cases in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) to 97 since January 2025. This reflects a continuing security challenge in this vital maritime passage. The ReCAAP ISC has urged ships transiting through SOMS to maintain enhanced vigilance, while littoral states are encouraged to increase patrols and enforcement to deter further incidents.
Meanwhile, the Sulu-Celebes Seas and waters off Eastern Sabah continue to show encouraging progress. For the fifth consecutive year, there have been no incidents of crew abduction, with the last reported case dating back to 17 January 2020. The Philippine Coast Guard, in coordination with regional partners, has downgraded the threat of abduction for ransom to LOW, meaning incidents are not expected.
Advisory and Recommendations
On 14 February 2025, the ReCAAP ISC issued an advisory urging ships transiting the Sulu-Celebes Seas to remain cautious and to report any suspicious activity to the Philippines’ Operation Centres and the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM).
Ship masters and crew are strongly advised to:
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Report all incidents of piracy or armed robbery to the nearest coastal State and flag State.
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Follow the Regional Guide 2 to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia for preventive measures.
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Stay alert, adopt appropriate onboard security protocols, and keep emergency reporting contacts ready.
While the maritime security situation in the Sulu-Celebes Seas shows significant improvement, the Straits of Malacca and Singapore remain a high-risk area with increasing reports of armed robbery against ships. Continuous vigilance, cooperation between littoral states, and adherence to ReCAAP guidelines are essential to safeguard seafarers and ensure the secure passage of vessels through these critical waters.
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Source: Safety4Sea
