Appreciating President Prabowo’s Firmness in Ending the Aceh-North Sumatra Territorial Dispute
By: Rasyidin Johan )*
President Prabowo Subianto has once again demonstrated his firm, just, and legally based leadership character by resolving the dispute over four islands between the Provinces of Aceh and North Sumatra completely. This decision not only ends the heated polemic, but also sets a positive precedent in managing administrative conflicts in Indonesia. By using official documents and valid data as a basis, this step reflects the quality of leadership that does not compromise on the principle of truth.
In a limited meeting at the Presidential Palace on June 17, 2025, the central government through Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that the four islands, namely Panjang Island, Lipan Island, Mangkir Gadang Island, and Mangkir Ketek Island, are administratively part of the Aceh Province. This decision is not merely the result of a political discussion, but is based on an official report from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the results of a thorough verification of the documents submitted by the two provinces. Thus, there is no room for speculation or political maneuvers that are detrimental to the spirit of national unity.
President Prabowo’s move shows how a data-based and legal approach can extinguish potential inter-regional conflicts. Disputes over administrative boundaries are often a source of horizontal tension that can trigger identity conflicts and social jealousy. However, in this case, the resolution actually strengthened the bonds between provinces within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. No party was humiliated, and the decision was made in the spirit of justice and transparency.
Positive responses also came from various parties. Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, Governor of Aceh Muzakir Manaf, and Governor of North Sumatra Bobby Nasution were present in person at the press conference marking the end of this conflict. Not only did it show the solidity of central and regional coordination, the presence of these important figures also symbolized acceptance of the final decision made by President Prabowo. This is a depiction of a mature and civilized political process, where problem solving is carried out within a legal framework and with mutual respect.
Special appreciation was also expressed by various elements of society in Aceh, including the Joint Forum (Forbes) of the DPR-DPD from Aceh and religious figures. They saw this decision as the result of a long struggle that was finally heard and responded to wisely by the central government. Moreover, this decision opens up new space for strengthening regional autonomy and more accurate regional management, while restoring public trust in state institutions.
The decision taken by President Prabowo also illustrates a deep understanding of the importance of maintaining regional stability within the framework of national geopolitics. Small disputes like this, if not resolved properly, can trigger wider disharmony. Therefore, data-based assertiveness and legal integrity are the main weapons in maintaining the unity of this very diverse Indonesia.
In the context of national development, accurate resolution of regional boundaries also has important implications for resource governance, budget distribution, and regional development planning. With administrative clarity, the Aceh Provincial Government now has a strong legal basis to design and execute development programs on the four islands. This advantage belongs not only to Aceh, but also to the nation as a whole because more and more areas can be optimally utilized for the welfare of the community.
On the other hand, this decision proves that Prabowo’s leadership is not trapped in a symbolic or populist approach. He does not seek a compromise middle ground, but takes a clear position that sides with the truth of the data. This is a characteristic of a leader who is not afraid to make important decisions, even though he may face pressure or resistance from some parties. It is precisely from this firmness that respect and trust are born.
This kind of leadership is very much needed in the current era of government transition and bureaucratic modernization. Courage in resolving issues that have been floating is a real manifestation of government effectiveness. The community needs a leader who is able to solve problems, not postpone them or throw away responsibility. Prabowo showed that no matter how serious the problem is, it can be resolved when siding with law and data becomes the main foundation in policy making.
Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives from the NasDem Party Faction, Muslim Ayub, also expressed his appreciation for the President’s firmness. He considered this step as a form of siding with justice based on authentic documents. According to him, the four islands have indeed been within the administrative area from the startasi Aceh, while North Sumatra Province has no valid evidence that can strengthen the claim of ownership.
President Prabowo’s decision to resolve the dispute over the four islands not only marks the end of the administrative conflict, but also opens a new chapter in leadership that is firm, transparent, and in favor of national interests. In the midst of the great challenges faced by this nation, steps like this provide hope that Indonesia is led by a hand that is able to maintain the integrity of the homeland with courage and wisdom.
)* The author is an observer of Aceh Development
