The Indonesian Navy has resumed its efforts to dismantle the 30.16-kilometer-long sea fence in Tangerang, Banten, after a week-long pause due to adverse weather conditions. The operation,which began on tuesday,February 4,2025,is part of a broader initiative to restore access for local fishermen and ensure their livelihoods.
Frist Admiral I made Wira Hady, Head of the Indonesian Navy Information Service, confirmed that the dismantling resumed at two key locations: Tanjung Pasir, where 1.5 kilometers of the fence were removed, and Kronjo, where 500 meters were taken down. So far, 20.7 kilometers of the fence have been dismantled, leaving approximately 9.46 kilometers still standing.
“The President of Indonesia has ordered the opening of access for fishermen to earn a living and restore their daily livelihood of fishing,” Wira stated in a written release. This directive from President Prabowo Subianto underscores the government’s commitment to supporting local communities.
The operation has faced important challenges,including strong winds and high waves,which temporarily halted progress. “However, we have continued the dismantling after considering the weather conditions at the site,” Wira added.
To ensure the success of this mission, the Indonesian Navy has deployed 256 personnel, including members of the Water and Air Police (Polairud) and local fishermen. The team is equipped with 12 rubber boats, one RBB unit, one RHIB unit, one Patkamla, and several fishermen’s boats.The sea fence, which spans three areas of Tangerang, has been a contentious issue, with its removal seen as a critical step toward restoring the region’s fishing industry. The Navy’s efforts are a testament to its dedication to fulfilling the President’s orders and supporting the local economy.
| Key Details | Information |
|————————————-|———————————————————————————|
| Total Length of Sea Fence | 30.16 kilometers |
| Fence Dismantled so Far | 20.7 kilometers |
| Remaining Fence | 9.46 kilometers |
| Personnel Deployed | 256 (Navy, Polairud, local fishermen) |
| Equipment Used | 12 rubber boats, 1 RBB unit, 1 RHIB unit, 1 Patkamla, fishermen’s boats |
| Primary Objective | Restore fishing access for local communities |
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Restoring Fishermen’s Livelihoods: Insights into the Indonesian Navy’s Sea Fence Dismantling Operation
The Indonesian Navy has resumed its efforts to dismantle a 30.16-kilometer-long sea fence in Tangerang, Banten, after a week-long pause due to adverse weather conditions. This operation is part of a broader initiative to restore fishing access for local communities and ensure their livelihoods.To provide deeper insights into this critical mission, we speak with Dr. Arif Santoso, a maritime policy expert and former advisor to Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries.
The Scope of the Operation
Editor: dr. Santoso, can you provide an overview of the ongoing sea fence dismantling operation in Tangerang? What makes this task so meaningful?
Dr. Santoso: Certainly. The operation involves removing a 30.16-kilometer sea fence that spans three key areas in Tangerang. This barrier has been a major obstacle for local fishermen, restricting their access to fishing grounds and severely impacting their livelihoods. The Navy’s efforts, supported by 256 personnel and specialized equipment like rubber boats and RHIB units, aim to restore this access. It’s a significant undertaking not just for its scale but also for its direct impact on as a regional convenience and the daily lives of fishing communities.
Challenges Faced During the Operation
Editor: The operation was temporarily halted due to adverse weather conditions. What other challenges has the Navy encountered, and how have they managed them?
Dr. Santoso: Weather has indeed been a primary challenge, with strong winds and high waves complicating the dismantling process. additionally, the sheer length of the fence and its structural complexity require meticulous planning and execution. The Navy has addressed these challenges by resuming work only when conditions were safer and by deploying specialized equipment like the Patkamla unit to ensure efficiency. Collaboration with local fishermen has also been crucial, as their firsthand knowledge of the area aids in navigating these difficulties.
Impact on Local Communities
Editor: How will the removal of the sea fence benefit the local fishing communities in Tangerang?
Dr. Santoso: removing the fence will have an immediate and profound impact. It will open up fishing grounds that have been inaccessible for years, allowing fishermen to resume their livelihoods. This aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s directive to prioritize the well-being of local communities. Beyond economic benefits, it also fosters a sense of empowerment and hope among the fishermen, who have long struggled due to restricted access to their conventional fishing areas.
The Role of the Indonesian Navy
Editor: What does this operation reveal about the Indonesian Navy’s role in supporting community and national initiatives?
Dr. Santoso: This operation underscores the Navy’s multifaceted role beyond traditional defense duties.It highlights their commitment to aiding humanitarian and economic initiatives that directly benefit citizens.By leveraging their resources and expertise, the Navy is not only fulfilling the President’s orders but also demonstrating its dedication to the nation’s welfare. It’s a powerful example of how military forces can contribute to socio-economic advancement.
Future Implications
Editor: What long-term implications could this operation have for Indonesia’s maritime policies and fishing industry?
Dr. Santoso: This operation could set a precedent for addressing similar issues across the country. It emphasizes the importance of balancing development projects with the needs of local communities,especially in the fishing sector. Additionally, it highlights the need for lasting maritime policies that prioritize both economic growth and environmental conservation. By resolving this issue, the government can strengthen its relationship with coastal communities and reinforce its commitment to their prosperity.
Conclusion
The Indonesian Navy’s ongoing operation to dismantle the sea fence in Tangerang is a testament to the government’s dedication to restoring the livelihoods of local fishermen. Despite challenges like adverse weather and logistical complexities, the Navy’s efforts, supported by local communities, are paving the way for a brighter future for the region’s fishing industry. As Dr. Santoso highlights, this initiative not only addresses an immediate concern but also sets a precedent for more inclusive and sustainable maritime policies in Indonesia.
