Straits of Malaccawaterways is an important sea-lanes to Japan, not only for economy purpose but also in strategic aspect. But that area is not a Japan's territories. So it is impossible to Japan to endure this waterways safe from maritime threats. Using data and research findings from 2001- 2016, this article will debate about Japan's role to enhance the maritim security in straits of Malacca. This study has three objectives, namely 1) Explains the importance of the straits of Malacca against Japanese maritime strategic from the year 2001–2015; 2) Analyse strategic challenges in the maritime navigation and maritime safety aspects in straits of Malacca to Japan and 3) analyze the relevance of Japan's contribution and cooperation with the littoral states in maritime safety and security aspects in the Straits of Malacca. The findings reveal that Straits of Malacca is an important waterways to Japan from strategic aspect (including safety of navigation and maritime security). Japanese government and NGOs have shown their concern and commitment to cooperate in several aspects like exercises and technical to Littoral States. The financial aids has given to Littoral States through Straits of Malacca Council so that it will reduce the high expenses of management.
Japan, Maritime Security, Straits of Malacca, Littoral States, National Interest
