“Japan will begin developing high-precision nautical charts for five strategically important waterways across Southeast Asia as part of a broader effort to safeguard maritime trade and reduce dependence on traditional shipping corridors.”
“According to the Yomiuri Shimbun, the project will focus on the Molucca Passage and Ombai Strait in eastern Indonesia, the Sunda Strait in western Indonesia, and the Surigao and Balabac Straits in the Philippines. Each survey will cover roughly 100 square kilometres and include hydrographic mapping, seabed studies and the installation of navigational aids.”
“Japan’s Foreign Ministry will carry out the work in partnership with Indonesia, the Philippines and Timor-Leste (East Timor), with the resulting charts expected to be published by the coastal states. Estimated to cost ¥2 billion (approx. $12.3 million), or ¥400 million ($2.46 million) per strait, the initiative will be financed through Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) programme and is expected to be included in the fiscal 2027 budget.”