Batam, Riau Islands (ANTARA News) - A ship loaded with nuclear waste from France and headed for Australia, that some feared would travel around the Malacca Strait, has instead taken a direct route to the destination country without going through Indonesia, an official stated.

The head of maritime security agency (Bakamla) of West territory, Vice Admiral UK Agung, made the statement here on Friday.

"At first, we were worried that MV Island Trader will cross the Malacca Strait and other Indonesian waters. However, from South Africa, the ship changed its direction and headed straight for Australia," Agung said.

According to him, if the ship had passed through the Indonesian waters, there were fears about detrimental effects in case of any leakage, because Indonesia does not have the knowhow to handle it.

Previously, Bakamla had coordinated with various parties to ensure that no one serves the ships logistical needs, such as water supply and fuel, if it were to pass through the Indonesian waters, he said.

"We, however, will keep monitoring the ships sailing route until it reaches its destination without going through Indonesia," Agung pointed out.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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