Prabowo Orders Investigation into Unauthorized Coastal Barriers in Tangerang

JAKARTA, investortrust.id – President Prabowo Subianto summoned Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono and Deputy Minister Didit Herdiawan to the Merdeka Palace on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025. The meeting focused on the unauthorized construction of bamboo coastal barriers in Tangerang, Banten.

After the meeting, Sakti revealed that these structures, installed along the coast, were erected without proper permits.

“This issue is not unique to Tangerang, Banten. We have found similar cases in Bekasi. Specifically in Tangerang, these barriers were installed without the required permits,” Sakti explained.

The unauthorized barriers have disrupted the livelihoods of local fishermen, obstructing access to traditional fishing grounds and causing economic losses. The Ombudsman estimates that fishermen have collectively lost approximately Rp 9 billion over the past five months.

Violation of Maritime Regulations

Sakti clarified that the construction violated Indonesia’s Job Creation Law, which requires a Marine Spatial Use Approval (KKPRL) for any activity in marine areas. As an initial response, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) sealed off the site.

“After sealing the site, we started identifying the responsible parties. At first, it was unclear who installed the barriers. Legally, someone must claim responsibility for further action,” Sakti said.

The minister also disclosed the discovery of 30 hectares of seabed ownership certificates, which he deemed illegal. President Prabowo directed authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly.

Speculation surrounding the ownership of the barriers has also intensified, with reports suggesting possible involvement by developers or other private entities aiming to claim coastal areas for potential commercial projects, such as land reclamation or exclusive access. Trenggono emphasized that all findings will be investigated to ensure compliance with maritime laws.

“The President has instructed us to resolve this issue completely and to ensure legal compliance. If ownership cannot be verified, the property will revert to the state,” Sakti added.

Collaboration for Legal Compliance

The investigation will involve multiple agencies, including the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) and the Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla), to ensure proper legal processes are followed. Sakti emphasized the importance of collaboration to prevent procedural errors.

“This must be a joint effort involving all relevant parties. If no legitimate claims are made, the assets will be designated as state property,” he said.

Questions Over Seabed Certificates

Responding to statements from Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid, who acknowledged 263 building-use rights certificates (SHGB) and 17 ownership certificates (SHM) on the seabed in Tangerang, Sakti reiterated their illegality.

“Such certificates are invalid. Activities in marine areas, including coastal zones, must adhere to strict permitting requirements, and these certificates violate those regulations,” he stated.

President Prabowo’s directive underscores the government’s commitment to protecting marine resources and ensuring compliance with maritime laws.