In the past, analysts have warned that terrorists might take over a cargo vessel and carry out terrorist attacks on key harbours overseeing shipping transport.
But Senator Hill, in Singapore for a regional defence and security conference, said progress had been made over the past year with increased cooperation between Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore for coordinated patrols in the Strait.
Australia has been encouraged by progress over regional security issues, especially the maritime lanes in the Malacca Strait, says Defence Minister Robert Hill.
In the past, analysts have warned that terrorists might take over a cargo vessel and carry out terrorist attacks on key harbours overseeing shipping transport.
But Senator Hill, in Singapore for a regional defence and security conference, said progress had been made over the past year with increased cooperation between Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore for coordinated patrols in the Strait.
Malaysia has resisted offers by the United States to assist in joint patrols through the US Pacific Command.
But Thailand has also being invited to join coordinated efforts to secure the shipping lanes.
"I think the Malaysian Defence Minister (Najib Tun Razak) is more comfortable with joint air surveillance of the Malacca Straits," Senator Hill said.
Japan, which boasts one of the world's largest container shipping fleets, has frequently expressed concern over the state of shipping security in the Malacca Strait.
Senator Hill said the Philippines was also keen to carry out cooperative maritime surveillance operations.
