Maritime Terrorism in South East Asia: An Assessment

Abstract

This research evaluates the possibility of an increase in maritime terrorist violence in Southeast Asia, based on a recounting and analysis of some of the most recent past incidents in these waters. Through the research objective, it tries to identify the challenges facing states in the region in maritime terrorism and the emerging trends in maritime terrorism. It also studies the emerging terrorists in Southeast Asia and their potential. Further, it pays particular attention to how geostrategic issues in Southeast Asia are confronted. The research was based on qualitative methodology, and only secondary data were used. Secondary data were collected by means of a literature review and reference sources such as legislation, international treaties, academic literature, newspaper articles and sources. Maritime terrorism is seen as a critical threat to maritime safety in Southeast Asia. According to research, maritime security challenges in Southeast Asia are relatively high compared to other Asian regions, and maritime terrorism has grown significantly. Terrorist attacks in the maritime domain are worrisome because of their potential flow on trade effects. In South-East Asia, maritime terrorism by vile non-state actors takes place primarily in the Sulus and Celebes seas, with the Abu Sayyaf group considered the main author.