Jakarta – The Indonesian government has once again demonstrated its firm stance in safeguarding national maritime sovereignty. Two foreign fishing vessels flying the Vietnamese flag were successfully seized in 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 the success was the result of synergy between surveillance officers and the active participation of coastal communities.
“This strategy has proven highly effective in monitoring operations in the border area of the North Natuna Sea,” said Pung.
He noted that most of the illegal foreign vessels were apprehended thanks to reports from local fishermen who observed suspicious activities.
Since 2020, a total of 147 vessels have been captured in the Riau Islands region, comprising 85 Indonesian vessels and 62 foreign vessels. The potential state losses prevented by these actions are estimated to reach IDR 2.1 trillion.
“Riau Islands and the North Natuna Sea are among the areas most vulnerable to IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing, particularly by vessels from Vietnam,” Pung added.
According to him, the North Natuna Sea, which is part of Indonesia’s Fisheries Management Area (WPPNRI) 711, holds a fisheries potential of 1.3 million tons per year—making it a prime target for foreign fishing fleets.
Differing maritime boundary views between Indonesia and Vietnam also contribute to tensions in the so-called “gray zones” that have yet to be officially agreed upon.
“This situation often leads Natuna fishermen to report foreign vessels entering the area,” Pung continued.
However, surveillance operations are not without challenges. The KKP has only three patrol vessels that can effectively reach the Natuna region. Officers often face direct resistance from foreign vessels, which are sometimes escorted by the Vietnamese coast guard.
“They may appear calm here, but out at sea, they’re aggressive and confrontational with us,” said Pung.
He also described how Vietnamese vessels sometimes attempt to ram KKP patrol boats or throw ropes to disable their propellers.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chair of Commission IV of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Abdul Kharis Almasyhari, emphasized the importance of budget and infrastructure support for the KKP.
“Safeguarding Indonesia’s seas requires spirit, infrastructure, and financial support,” he affirmed.
The government, through the KKP, continues to promote the strengthening of surveillance systems based on modern technology to enhance the Command Center and enable digital control over maritime operations.
