The Indonesian Confrontation (Konfrontasi) (1963-1966): Background

Map showing the location of Indonesian seaborne and aerial incursions into Malaysia between 1964 and 1965. While the map indicates the extent of Indonesian incursions it cannot relate the success or otherwise of these operations. In the event these attempts all resulted in failure; insufficient reconnaissance and preparation told against the Indonesians as did their lack of understanding of Malaysia’s internal affairs – few Malaysians in fact supported Indonesia’s desire to destabilise and destroy their new federation, nor did they see the federation, as the Indonesians did, as an attempt by the British to extend their colonial rule. Rapid responses by the local people, police and military ensured that theses Indonesian operations were quickly defeated.