Sea Fence Scandal: Maritime Ministry Questions Kohod Village Chief, 13 Fishermen

Bamboo Sea Fence Sparks Controversy in Tangerang

A 30.16-kilometer-long bamboo barrier erected along the coast of Tangerang Regency, Banten, has ignited a storm of controversy and drawn the attention of Indonesia’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP).constructed without the necessary Marine Spatial Utilization Approval (PKKPRL),the fence has reportedly disrupted local fishermen,forcing them to alter their traditional fishing routes.

Doni Ismanto Darwin, a special staff member to the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, confirmed that the KKP’s Special Police for Coastal and small Island Management (Polsus PWP3K) is actively investigating the matter.”On January 30, 2025, the KKP summoned the Kohod village chief and 13 fishermen for questioning,” he stated in Jakarta on Friday, January 31, as quoted by Antara.

These questioning sessions,according to Doni,are part of an administrative sanction process,adhering to maritime and fisheries regulations,including Government Regulation (PP) No.21 of 2021, PP No. 85 of 2021, and Ministerial Regulation No. 31 of 2021. The investigation follows an earlier inquiry involving two representatives from the Pantura People’s Network (JRP) on January 21. To date, the ministry has questioned a total of 16 individuals regarding the unauthorized sea fence.

While Doni declined to disclose the identities of those questioned or the specifics of their testimonies, citing the ongoing nature of the inquiry, he assured that the ministry is conducting a thorough investigation in accordance with legal procedures. “The KKP is ensuring that this entire process is carried out under the applicable regulations to uphold fairness and order in the management of marine space,” he stated.

Adding another layer of complexity to the situation, Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) Nusron Wahid revealed that Building Use rights (HGB) and Freehold Title Certificates (SHM) were issued for the fenced-off area. This revelation raises questions about the legality of the fence’s construction and ownership.

Responding to the public outcry,President Prabowo Subianto ordered the Indonesian Navy to dismantle the sea fence in Tangerang.A joint team comprising the Navy, National Police, KKP, and local fishermen carried out the removal operation.

What legal actions will be taken against those responsible for constructing the unauthorized bamboo sea fence?

Bamboo sea Fence Spat: Interview with Doni Ismanto Darwin

The recent emergence of a 30-kilometer bamboo fence along Tangerang’s coast has sparked fierce debate, prompting the Indonesian Ministry of Maritime affairs and Fisheries (KKP) to launch an inquiry. Doni Ismanto Darwin, a special staff member to the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, shed light on the ministry’s stance and the ongoing probe.

Archyde: Mr. Darwin, can you elaborate on the KKP’s concerns regarding this unauthorized sea fence?

Doni Ismanto Darwin: The primary concern is the construction of this fence without the required Marine Spatial Utilization Approval (PKKPRL). This approval is crucial for ensuring the enduring and responsible use of Indonesia’s marine resources. The fence, erected without proper authorization, has reportedly disrupted customary fishing routes for local fishermen, impacting their livelihoods and potentially causing ecological harm.

Archyde: We understand that the KKP has initiated an investigation. Can you detail the steps taken so far?

Doni Ismanto Darwin: Yes, the KKP’s Special Police for Coastal and small Island Management (Polsus PWP3K) is actively investigating the matter. We have already summoned several individuals for questioning, including the Kohod village chief and 13 fishermen, as well as representatives from the Pantura People’s Network (JRP). We are meticulously gathering facts to determine the individuals responsible for the fence’s construction and understand the motivations behind it.

archyde: Are there any specific legal regulations that are being cited in this investigation?

Doni Ismanto Darwin: We are applying a range of relevant legal frameworks, including Government Regulation (PP) no.21 of 2021, PP No. 85 of 2021, and Ministerial Regulation no. 31 of 2021. These regulations specifically address maritime and fisheries management and ensure compliance with proper procedures for utilizing marine space.

Archyde: Adding to the complexity, reports indicate that building rights have been issued for the area where the fence was constructed. How does this impact the investigation?

Doni Ismanto Darwin: This revelation certainly adds another layer to the situation. We need to thoroughly examine the land tenure documents and determine whether the building rights granted are compatible with the construction of such a large-scale barrier in the coastal zone.

Archyde: What message do you have for Indonesian citizens concerned about the impact of such projects on their livelihoods and the marine habitat?

Doni Ismanto Darwin: We encourage citizens to participate actively in the protection and management of our invaluable marine resources. Report any unauthorized activities or concerns regarding marine space utilization to the relevant authorities. It is through collaborative efforts that we can ensure a sustainable future for our coastal communities and the marine ecosystem.

Archyde: What will be the next steps in this investigation?

Doni Ismanto Darwin: We remain committed to conducting a thorough and obvious investigation, adhering to legal procedures and ensuring due process for all parties involved.Based on the findings, appropriate actions will be taken to address any violations and prevent similar incidents in the future. We are open to engaging with all stakeholders to find solutions that balance economic progress with environmental protection and the well-being of fishing communities.