127.3 Hectares of Malaysian Territory Now Belong to Indonesia, Here's the Location

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - The Indonesian government has achieved a diplomatic victory in the affirmation of territorial boundaries on Sebatik Island. Through a recent agreement with Malaysia, Indonesia now has an additional 127.3 hectares of territory on the island, which shares a border with Malaysia.

This was revealed in a written statement on April 15, 2026, by Muhammad Qodari, who at the time held the position of Chief of Presidential Staff (KSP). Currently, Qodari is known to serve as Head of the Government Communications Agency (Bakom) since his inauguration on April 27, 2026.

“The completion of the border affirmation on Sebatik Island is a real manifestation of the success of peaceful diplomacy that strengthens Indonesia’s territorial sovereignty. With the agreement of the new border line, an area of 127.3 hectares, which in the old border was part of Malaysia, is now officially Indonesian territory,” said Qodari in a written statement.

As a reciprocal measure for this border adjustment, only 4.9 hectares of territory that was previously included in the old Indonesian map has now become part of Malaysian territory.

This move is in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s ambition to strengthen the national defense and security system. One of its main instruments is through the construction of State Border Crossing Posts (PLBN).

According to government data, since December 2016 to October 2024, Indonesia has operated 15 PLBNs out of a total of 18 planned. Qodari detailed some of these PLBNs, including Entikong, Mota’ain, Badau, Aruk, and the Sebatik/Sei Nyamuk PLBN in North Kalimantan.

Not Just a Guard Post, But an Economic Driver

Interestingly, the presence of PLBNs now serves not only as a defense line. The government notes the significant economic impact of these border posts.

In 2025 alone, more than 2.4 million people crossed at the 15 PLBNs, with trade value reaching IDR 13.5 trillion.

Qodari said that PLBNs now play a strategic role, not only strengthening security but also driving the mobility and economy of communities on the border.

To ensure continued smooth operation, the government has prepared a budget allocation of IDR 86 billion in 2026. Meanwhile, the remaining three PLBNs, namely Sei Kelik (West Kalimantan), Oepoli (East Nusa Tenggara), and Long Midang (North Kalimantan), are still being pursued for completion, although they are still constrained by access to materials and agreement on exit-entry points.

Regarding residents affected by the border shift, Qodari affirmed that the government will prioritize compensation and protection of community rights so that no one is harmed socially or economically.