ABSTRACT
The Straits of Malacca are an important regional sink for a range of land-based organic and non-organic materials that find their way into the system via rivers, drains and canals. The extent and quality of these materials depends very much on the type of economic activities and land use in the littoral states. In addition, the level of control and management exercised by those littoral states in reducing the discharge of wastes and pollutants from those economic activities into the rivers and coasts is an important factor influencing the quality of the marine environment of the Straits. This chapter, focusing on environmental issues in the Straits, examines the nature of point and non-point sources of pollution, particularly those of anthropogenic origin. While land-based pollution is in general more serious, sea-based pollution due to infrequent but serious tanker collisions, frequent tanker bilge discharges and oil leakage from vessels is also important in affecting the ecology of the Straits. Efforts made by the littoral states individually, regionally and through international collaboration to manage the environment of the Straits will also be considered. In addition, the role of user states, international organisations and the international community before and after the UNCED summit in 1992, and the impact of Chapter 17 of Agenda 21 will be evaluated.
