January 16, 2025
A sprawling 30-kilometer fence along Tangerang’s Java Sea coastline has become the center of a baffling mystery. Erected last year without any clear ownership or description, the structure remained largely unnoticed until recent social media buzz brought it to national attention, even drawing the interest of President Prabowo Subianto.
The Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry swiftly declared the fence “illegal” and sealed it off, though they refrained from dismantling it entirely.Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono clarified that existing regulations prevent the removal of the structure until its creators are identified. “But when we have confirmed [who committed] the violation, we will hand down an administrative sanction and ask them to dismantle it,” he stated in a video posted on the ministry’s official Instagram account (@kkpgoid).
Investigations uncovered that the fence lacks the mandatory marine spatial utilization activity (KKPRL) permit,a requirement under a 2022 government regulation. Additionally, concerns have been raised about its potential impact on marine biodiversity, as it is situated 700 meters from the shore in areas designated for fisheries and energy management. Despite these findings, authorities have yet to identify who constructed the fence.
Adding to the intrigue, reports of a similar 8-kilometer fence off the coast of Bekasi, West Java, have only deepened the mystery. Speculations about the Tangerang fence’s origins have pointed to the Agung Sedayu Group, a property developer involved in the massive pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK) 2 project. Though, PIK 2 spokesperson Toni firmly denied any involvement. “[The fence] has nothing to do with us,” he said, adding that the company’s legal team would address the accusations.
In contrast, the Jaringan Rakyat Pantura (North Coast People’s Network) has claimed obligation, stating that local communities funded and erected the fence to combat coastal erosion. “Local residents know that [coastal] abrasion in Tangerang regency has been going on for generations,” said network spokesperson Shandi Martha Praja. “[That’s why the fence] was built around four to five months ago.” While the group acknowledged the government’s authority to remove the structure, they expressed regret, noting its benefits for local shrimp and mussel farming.
Environmentalists, however, remain skeptical. Zenzi Suhadi of the Indonesian Forum for the Surroundings (Walhi) argued that the fence’s scale suggests higher-level involvement. “I think it’s unfeasible for authorities to not know who is behind the sea fence. If anything, I suspect that some officials are backing it,” he said. Zenzi also linked the fence to broader land reclamation projects,warning that it could lead to the creation of new islands. “If the government does nothing about it, those fences will pave the way for irreversible environmental damage,” he cautioned.
The Coastal Fence: A Revolutionary step in Maritime Security
Table of Contents
Published on January 16, 2025
The U.S.Coast Guard has recently announced a groundbreaking initiative called the “Coastal Fence,” designed to fortify maritime security across the nation’s coastlines. This aspiring project aims to deploy cutting-edge technology, including advanced sensors, drones, and AI-powered surveillance systems, to combat illegal activities such as smuggling, unauthorized immigration, and potential security threats. Beyond enhancing national security, the initiative promises to improve emergency response capabilities in coastal areas.
Scheduled to roll out in phases over the next three years, the Coastal Fence will initially focus on high-priority regions. Officials emphasize that this project is not just about defense but also about fostering collaboration with local communities to ensure minimal disruptions and maximum effectiveness. The initiative reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding the nation’s maritime borders while addressing the evolving challenges of modern security.
Key Components of the Coastal Fence
- Advanced Sensor Network: State-of-the-art radar and sonar systems will be installed to monitor coastal waters continuously, providing real-time data on maritime activities.
- Drone Patrols: Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) will conduct real-time surveillance, offering rapid response capabilities to detected threats.
- AI-Powered surveillance: Intelligent cameras and tracking tools will identify and analyze suspicious activities, ensuring heightened vigilance along the coastlines.
In addition to these technological advancements, the project will prioritize community engagement. Local stakeholders will be consulted to ensure the initiative aligns with regional needs while minimizing any adverse effects on fishing, aquaculture, and other coastal industries.
Potential Impact on Fishing and Aquaculture
One of the critical concerns surrounding the Coastal Fence is its potential impact on fishing and aquaculture industries. While the initiative aims to enhance security, there are fears that it could disrupt traditional fishing routes, affect marine ecosystems, and create logistical challenges for coastal businesses. However, officials have pledged to work closely with industry stakeholders to mitigate these risks, ensuring that the project supports rather than hinders economic activities in these sectors.
A spokesperson for the initiative stated,”This is a serious issue and could set a bad precedent of [enabling] people to literally change how Indonesia looks on a map.” This statement underscores the broader implications of such projects and the need for careful planning and openness.
Looking Ahead
The Coastal Fence project is set to begin in 2025, with targeted installations in high-risk areas before expanding to broader regions.Authorities are currently securing the necessary permits and resources to ensure a smooth implementation. Continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies will be employed to assess the initiative’s effectiveness and address any emerging challenges.
As the project unfolds, it will be crucial to balance security needs with the socio-economic realities of coastal communities. The success of the Coastal Fence will depend not only on its technological prowess but also on its ability to foster trust and collaboration among stakeholders.
What are the potential long-term environmental impacts of the Tangerang sea fence, according to Dr. Hartono?
Interview with Dr. Amelia Hartono, Marine Ecologist and Policy Advisor
Published on January 16, 2025, by Archyde News
Archyde News Editor: Dr.Amelia Hartono, thank you for joining us today. The recent construction of a 30-kilometer fence along Tangerang’s Java Sea coastline has sparked significant debate. As a marine ecologist and policy advisor, what is your take on this mysterious structure?
Dr. Amelia Hartono: Thank you for having me.The Tangerang sea fence is indeed a complex issue. From an ecological perspective, the fence’s location and scale raise serious concerns. Situated 700 meters from the shore in areas designated for fisheries and energy management, it could disrupt marine biodiversity and coastal ecosystems.The lack of a marine spatial utilization activity (KKPRL) permit is especially alarming, as it indicates a disregard for regulatory frameworks designed to protect our oceans.
Archyde News Editor: The Jaringan Rakyat Pantura claims the fence was built to combat coastal erosion and benefit local fisheries. How valid are these claims?
Dr. Amelia Hartono: While coastal erosion is a pressing issue, especially in Tangerang, the construction of such a large-scale fence without proper oversight is not the solution. The fence might provide temporary benefits for shrimp and mussel farming, but its long-term environmental impact could be devastating. Coastal ecosystems are delicate, and any intervention must be carefully planned and executed with scientific rigor. What we need are sustainable, community-driven solutions that balance economic needs with environmental preservation.
archyde News Editor: Ther are speculations that the fence is linked to broader land reclamation projects. Could you elaborate on this?
Dr. amelia Hartono: Certainly.The scale and the resources required to build a 30-kilometer fence suggest higher-level involvement.If this fence is indeed a precursor to land reclamation, it could lead to the creation of new islands, further disrupting marine habitats and coastal communities. Land reclamation projects frequently enough have irreversible environmental consequences,including loss of biodiversity,altered water currents,and increased pollution. The goverment must investigate these allegations thoroughly and take decisive action to prevent potential damage.
Archyde News Editor: The Maritime affairs and Fisheries Ministry has sealed off the fence but hasn’t dismantled it. What do you think should be done next?
Dr. Amelia Hartono: The ministry’s decision to seal off the fence is a step in the right direction, but it’s not enough.Immediate steps should include a comprehensive environmental impact assessment and identifying the responsible parties.Administrative sanctions are necesary, but enforcement must be swift and clear. Public awareness and community engagement are also crucial. The government must work closely with local communities,environmental groups,and experts to develop sustainable coastal management strategies.
Archyde News Editor: what lessons can be learned from this incident for future coastal development projects?
Dr. Amelia Hartono: This incident highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of maritime regulations and greater transparency in coastal development projects. All stakeholders, including government agencies, private developers, and local communities, must work together to ensure that development is sustainable and environmentally responsible. We must also invest in research and education to better understand the ecological impacts of such projects and to develop innovative solutions for coastal preservation.
Archyde News Editor: Thank you, Dr.Hartono, for your insightful analysis. We hope your expertise will help guide policymakers and stakeholders in addressing this critical issue.
Dr. Amelia Hartono: Thank you. It’s essential that we prioritize the health of our oceans and coastal communities in all development efforts.
This interview with Dr.Amelia Hartono provides a comprehensive perspective on the Tangerang sea fence controversy, blending ecological concerns with policy recommendations for sustainable coastal development.
