[Ex-Calif]

"I am hoping the Malacca Straight's are still safe for non-comercial boat's"

The biggest risk in the Mallaca straits is running into floating crap in the water. Logs, nets, trash, you name it.

I have lot's of friends who travel the straits at least once or twice a year on teh way to Thailand, Langkawi and Penang. Your chances of getting struck by lightning are probably higher.

Having said that you do need to be aware of the geo-political situation wherever you travel.

There are parts of the Philippines where as a westerner I am wary to travel and I am married to a Filipina. Insurgencies are up at record level is the south of Thailand. Parts of Indonesia should be visited with caution.

However - the majority of piracy acts are against commercial boats. They realize that the average pleasure boat is not worth robbing and stealing and selling boats is risky. Commercial boats are a fat target.

If by some remote chance you did get stopped in the Straits I am 100% certain it would be a matter of handing over your valuables and you would be on your way.

We did get stopped in the Philippines on a road trip.

Guys with M-16s, "Welcome to our village! Would you like to contribute to our town fiesta?"
Me, "Of course I'd like to contribute to your town fiesta! How much would I like to contribute, do you think?"
Guys with M-16s, "About 5000 pesos would be a generous contribution."
Me, "OK. Here you go! Have a great Fiesta."