Jakarta – The Indonesian government has once again demonstrated its firmness in safeguarding national maritime sovereignty. Two foreign fishing vessels flying the Vietnamese flag were successfully captured in the waters of the North Natuna Sea by the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) during a recent intensive surveillance operation.
Director General of Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance (PSDKP) at the KKP, Pung Nugroho Saksono, emphasized that this success was the result of synergy between surveillance officers and the active participation of coastal communities.
“This strategy has proven to be highly effective in conducting surveillance operations in the border areas of the North Natuna Sea,” said Pung.
He noted that most illegal foreign vessels were captured thanks to reports from local fishermen who observed suspicious activities.
Since 2020, a total of 147 vessels have been apprehended in the Riau Islands region, consisting of 85 Indonesian vessels and 62 foreign vessels. The estimated potential state losses prevented are valued at around IDR 2.1 trillion.
“Riau Islands, particularly the North Natuna Sea, is one of the areas most vulnerable to IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing, especially by Vietnamese vessels,” Pung stated.
According to him, the North Natuna Sea, located within Indonesia’s Fisheries Management Area (WPPNRI) 711, has an annual fishing potential of 1.3 million tons, making it a prime target for foreign fishing vessels.
Differing views on maritime boundaries between Indonesia and Vietnam have further heightened tensions in the disputed gray zones.
“This situation has led Natuna fishermen to frequently report foreign vessels entering these waters,” Pung added.
However, surveillance operations are not without challenges. The KKP only operates three patrol vessels capable of effectively reaching the Natuna region. Officers often face direct resistance from foreign vessels escorted by the Vietnamese coast guard.
“They may seem quiet here on land, but out at sea, they aggressively confront us,” said Pung.
He also explained that Vietnamese vessels sometimes attempt to ram KKP patrol boats or throw ropes to disable their propellers.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chairman of Commission IV of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Abdul Kharis Almasyhari, underscored the importance of budgetary and infrastructure support for the KKP.
“Safeguarding Indonesia’s seas requires determination, infrastructure, and financial backing,” he stressed.
The government, through the KKP, continues to push for the enhancement of technology-based surveillance systems to strengthen the Command Center and implement digital control of maritime operations.
