Shipping bodies applaud JWC decision

Singapore: Shipping bodies the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) and Intertanko have been among the first to applaud the Joint War Committee (JWC) for removing the Malacca Strait from the list of enhanced risk areas for War Risks. Calling it 'a testament to the increased security of the Strait orchestrated by Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore,' the SSA said it hoped the 'co-operation, initiatives and application of resources' by the littoral states would continue, and that in the event of future incidents a proper distinction between terrorism - 'main concern of the JWC' - and piracy be made. Intertanko, which like SSA had campaigned against the listing, also applauded the decision as 'most welcome to the industry.' It pledged the continuing constructive support of itself and industry colleagues to the littoral states' ongoing efforts to combat what it carefully described as 'piracy/theft,' adding that there had not been a single terrorist attack in the Malacca Strait in the past 13 years.  [11/08/06]