By: Roy Mardiyanto)
The recent capture of two Vietnamese-flagged fishing vessels in the waters of the North Natuna Sea stands as a clear reflection of Indonesia’s commitment to defending its maritime sovereignty. The surveillance operation carried out by the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) marks a progressive step in addressing the ongoing challenge of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in this strategically important region. This firm stance is not merely about law enforcement; it also serves as a geopolitical strategy to ensure that Indonesia’s marine wealth is not illegally exploited by foreign actors.
Director General of Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance at KKP, Pung Nugroho Saksono, emphasized that the success of this operation was made possible through the synergy between surveillance officers and the active participation of coastal communities. Reports from local fishermen—who act as the eyes and ears of the state in the field—have proven to be effective in deterring violations. Moreover, the fact that much of the intelligence regarding illegal activity originates from the public demonstrates that the responsibility of safeguarding the sea is not solely the government’s, but is also embraced by the people living on the frontlines.
Over the past three years, KKP operations in the Riau Islands region have successfully captured 147 violating vessels, including 62 foreign vessels. The total estimated state losses prevented amount to approximately IDR 2.1 trillion. This is no small figure. It represents the result of persistent efforts and consistency by authorities to defend Indonesia’s rightful claim to its marine resources. The North Natuna Sea, as part of Indonesia’s Fisheries Management Area (WPPNRI) 711, holds an estimated fish potential of 1.3 million tons annually. It is no surprise that this area is frequently targeted by foreign vessels, particularly from Vietnam, which exploit the differing interpretations of maritime boundaries as a loophole for illegal resource extraction.
The tensions in the so-called “gray zone” between Indonesia and Vietnam present a distinct challenge. Although Indonesia has full legal sovereignty over the area, field realities show that violations by foreign vessels occur systematically and are sometimes well-organized. Pung Nugroho Saksono noted that Vietnamese vessels often take aggressive actions such as ramming patrol boats or throwing ropes to disable propellers. Such provocations cannot be tolerated.
Nevertheless, the challenges Indonesia faces are not only external. Internally, limited surveillance capacity poses a significant obstacle. Only three KKP patrol vessels are currently capable of effectively covering the Natuna area. This number is clearly inadequate given the scale of the threat. Therefore, strengthening the surveillance fleet and modernizing its capabilities is urgently needed. In this context, Deputy Chairman of Commission IV of the House of Representatives, Abdul Kharis Almasyhari, stressed the importance of sufficient budgetary support. He stated that maritime protection requires passion, infrastructure, and funding that matches the complexity of the challenges involved.
Another strategic step being developed by the government is the integration of technology into the maritime surveillance system. The digitalization of ocean control via the strengthening of the Command Center is expected to enhance real-time monitoring capabilities in an efficient manner. Such technological innovation is highly relevant in light of physical and personnel limitations in the field. Digital transformation in fisheries surveillance is not just a supporting tool but a vital component of a modern, data-driven fisheries governance system.
Moreover, empowering local communities through community-based surveillance is a critical pillar that must not be overlooked. When coastal residents feel a sense of ownership over their waters, a natural sense of responsibility for national sovereignty emerges. In the long run, this approach not only strengthens surveillance efforts but also builds social resilience in regions vulnerable to violations.
The recent successful seizure of Vietnamese vessels should be used as a momentum to consolidate Indonesia’s comprehensive maritime policy. Diplomatically, the government must continue to enhance its bargaining position in resolving maritime boundary disputes with neighboring countries. Firmness at sea must be matched by skillful negotiation at the diplomatic table. The coherence between diplomacy and law enforcement is key to ensuring that Indonesia is not only seen as a maritime nation but also respected for its steadfastness in defending its maritime boundaries.
Undeniably, the North Natuna Sea is both a symbol of national sovereignty and a vital source of national protein supply. Threats to this region are threats to national food security and sovereignty. Therefore, the KKP’s success in capturing illegal foreign vessels should be viewed as a symbol of state strength in enforcing the law, preserving natural resources, and protecting local fishermen from unfair competition.
As global maritime dynamics become increasingly complex, the commitment to safeguarding Natuna must be viewed as a long-term strategic investment. The government has shown clear direction and concrete steps, but maintaining this commitment requires consistency from all stakeholders—executive, legislative, and coastal communities alike. As long as this firmness is upheld, no foreign vessel should feel at ease exploiting Indonesian waters.
*) The author is an observer of strategic issues.
