JAKARTA/TARAKAN, Indonesia -- Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines on Monday began joint sea patrols meant to deter piracy and counter the growing threat of terrorism.
Defense ministers from the three countries kicked off the "Indomalphi" tripartite patrols aboard an Indonesian warship anchored at a port in the city of Tarakan, in the province of North Kalimantan. The ship then headed out to sea, where guests were presented with a display of force by around a dozen vessels and a drill that simulated rescuing hostages from pirates.
