Natuna Regent Cen Sui Lan, accompanied by Natuna Regional Secretary Boy Wijanarko Varianto, joined an online coordination meeting on Wednesday (August 5). The meeting discussed plans to improve maritime coordination and security in the North Natuna Sea.
The meeting was held by the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs and attended by representatives from the ministry, the Riau Islands Governor, the Regents of Natuna and Anambas, and several related ministries.
During the meeting, Cen Sui Lan explained that Natuna has an important location in the North Natuna Sea. It is also close to an international shipping route connecting the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean. Natuna has an area of 218,091.61 square kilometers, 154 islands, and about 86,760 people.
Because Natuna is a border area with important sea routes, protecting its waters and natural resources is very important. The Regent said that Natuna has faced illegal fishing by foreign fishing vessels in Indonesia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). In some cases, the vessels were accompanied by foreign coast guard ships, which could affect security in the border area.
Natuna also faces social and economic challenges. Many communities still depend on other areas to meet their daily needs. Limited infrastructure and transportation, especially on smaller islands and areas separated from Bunguran Island, are also challenges that need attention.
Cen Sui Lan said Natuna needs better facilities and stronger sea patrols to prevent illegal fishing and help traditional fishermen feel safer while working at sea.
She emphasized that Natuna is not only part of Indonesia’s administrative territory but also one of the country’s important border areas. The Natuna Regency Government is committed to supporting national defense and security operations, strengthening coastal communities, and working with the central government to protect Indonesia’s sovereignty. (Pro_kopimnatuna/D&R)
RILIS PERS, Number : 0683/PRO_KOPIM/2025
