Publisher’s Note
Combatting threat in the region is a concerted
effort among nations
P
erhaps the greatest dilemma affecting the stability and well-being of
any nation is terrorism. Terrorist acts not only affect innocent lives;
they are carried out misleadingly by misguided groups who use
religion—in this case, Islam—as their weapon for obviously wrong
reasons.
It is also wrong to perceive that Islam preaches violence; au con-
traire, there are even many peace-loving Muslims who abhor the
misdeeds of groups like Maute and ISIS and want to help both au-
thorities and their non-Muslim brethren put an end to their actions at all costs.
This is also the imperative for countries affected by terrorist attacks to come up
with counter-solutions, most especially among members in ASEAN. This holds true
for member countries like the Philippines and Indonesia which has been subject
to terrorist attacks over the last few months alone. Another member country, Ma-
laysia, may not yet have experienced attacks of the magnitude of Marawi or Jakar-
ta, but this country is reputed to have very stringent security measures that have
prevented terrorists from launching violent acts.
As fellow ASEAN members Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines will truly have
a lot if they join their efforts together to help in their drive against terrorist acts.
In addition to land-based security, much is also needed for the three countries’
concerted efforts to counter this problem on a maritime scale. More so as the sea
lanes along ASEAN a major routes for trade among member countries, and be-
tween ASEAN and other parts of the globe.
In addition to heightened security measures—thanks to the recent development
between the heads of state and government of Indonesia, Malaysia and the Phil-
ippines who have met to address this issue—this has culminated into the joint
sea patrols along the Sulu Sea. The defense ministers and military chiefs from the
three member states kicked off the patrols in the Indonesian city of Tarakan in
Northern Borneo, just within proximity of the Malaysian state of Sabah.
Let us all be confident that instead of dwelling on the issue, there are effective
remedies that can be implemented to counter the rising threat of Islamic-inspired
terrorism—and only through concerted efforts can this be achieved on a regional
basis. However, these measures must be carried on with consistency, as there is no
turning back.
PHILIP O. ORTALEZA
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