Chokepoints explained
Strait of Malacca
The Strait of Malacca runs between the Malay Peninsula and the Indonesian island of Sumatra, linking the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea.
It is the shortest sea route between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific, used by ships carrying energy and goods between the Middle East, Europe and East Asia. Singapore sits at its southern end.
Its narrowest point, the Singapore Strait, is one of the busiest stretches of water in the world, so collisions, piracy or a regional crisis can quickly delay large volumes of trade.
Countries around the Strait of Malacca: this week's threat scores
Frequently asked questions
What is the Strait of Malacca?
The Strait of Malacca runs between the Malay Peninsula and the Indonesian island of Sumatra, linking the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea.
Why does the Strait of Malacca matter for business?
Its narrowest point, the Singapore Strait, is one of the busiest stretches of water in the world, so collisions, piracy or a regional crisis can quickly delay large volumes of trade.
Published by Zed Three. Last updated Nov 2, 2026.
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