SSPI framework now in final stage, says Deputy Defence Minister

KUALA LUMPUR: The proposal under the Sulu Sea Patrol Initiative(SSPI) for Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines to patrol the Sulu Sea together to fight maritime crime and terrorism is already at the final stage, said Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Seri Johari Baharom (pic).

“We have already come to an understanding between the three Defence Ministers. The working group is working seriously on the SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) on how the patrols will be carried out. The template is the same as the Malacca Straits. I think now it is at a final stage,” he told a press conference after officiating the 10th Asean Navy Chiefs Meeting (ANCM) held from Aug 22 to 25 at the Malaysian Armed Forces Officers’ Mess here.