Bogor, W Java, April 24 -- For days, a question rippled across global shipping lanes and diplomatic circles: would Indonesia follow Iran's playbook and charge vessels crossing the Malacca Strait, one of the world's busiest maritime chokepoints?

The speculation, amplified by international media, hinted at a dramatic shift in global trade norms. The Malacca Strait-linking the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea-handles a significant share of the world's maritime commerce.

Then came a clear answer from Jakarta.

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa firmly dismissed the idea, saying Indonesia has no plans to impose taxes or transit fees on foreign vessels passing through the strait.

The statement was aimed at quelling reports that he had ...