The Natuna Regency Government joined an online coordination meeting on the latest developments in the North Natuna Sea on Thursday morning (October 8), reaffirming its commitment to strengthening cooperation in protecting Indonesia’s sovereignty, sovereign rights, and maritime security.
Natuna Regent Cen Sui Lan attended the meeting with Deputy Regent Jarmin, the Regional Secretary, and the heads of the Regional Border Management Agency, Transportation Department, and Fisheries Department. The meeting was held at the Natuna Regent’s Office in Bukit Arai, East Bunguran District.
The meeting brought together representatives from relevant ministries and government agencies, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the National Police (Polri), the Riau Islands Provincial Government, and the Anambas Islands Regency Government to discuss the evolving situation and coordinate a response.
In his remarks, Major General Purwito Hadi Wardhono, Deputy for Coordination of National Defence and National Unity, described the North Natuna Sea as a vital maritime corridor and trade route where complex issues, including maritime boundary disputes and competing interests, continue to pose challenges.
He stressed that Indonesia must remain firm in protecting its sovereignty and sovereign rights, particularly within its maritime jurisdiction. Indonesia has consistently conveyed its position through diplomatic channels and rejects foreign claims of traditional fishing grounds or historical rights that have no basis in international law.
He also highlighted the use of the name North Natuna Sea as part of efforts to reinforce Indonesia’s national identity and interests in the region.
Purwito emphasized that addressing developments in the area requires close coordination among maritime security and law enforcement agencies, adequate operational resources, and a unified approach. A stronger maritime presence, he added, must go hand in hand with diplomacy to protect Indonesia’s sovereign rights without triggering unnecessary escalation.
He called on ministries, government agencies, the TNI, Polri, and other stakeholders to share intelligence, align their assessment of potential threats, coordinate policies, and develop carefully considered strategic measures.
The meeting also discussed a policy recommendation issued by the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs under Letter No. B.194/HN00009/2026, dated September 24, 2026. The recommendation calls for stronger national maritime coordination on security, safety, and law enforcement in Indonesian waters and areas under Indonesia’s jurisdiction.
It is intended to improve the effectiveness of security operations in the North Natuna Sea and has been addressed to the Minister of Defence, Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Commander of the TNI, Chief of the National Police, and Head of the Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla).
The meeting forms part of broader efforts to strengthen cooperation across government institutions in responding to developments in the North Natuna Sea and safeguarding Indonesia’s maritime interests. (Prokopim/S)
RILIS PERS, Number : 07030/PRO_KOPIM/2026
