BNPP targets Temajuk border crossing to open in August 2026

The National Border Management Agency (BNPP) of Indonesia, along with ministries and partner agencies, the West Kalimantan Provincial Government, and Sambas Regency Government, have agreed on strategic steps to accelerate the reopening of the Temajuk-Telok Melano border crossing between Indonesia and Malaysia. The agreement was reached during a cross-sector coordination forum held on Tuesday, 26 May 2026. This forum is part of the BNPP’s central role in coordinating national border area management policies, particularly to enhance connectivity, economic growth, and strengthen the strategic functions of border regions. In addition to discussing the accelerated operation of the border crossing, the forum also agreed to support the proposal for Temajuk to be designated as a Special Economic Zone (KEK) for border-based tourism. The coordination forum was designed to foster mutual understanding that forms the foundation for a unified action plan. ‘This forum has agreed on concrete steps to accelerate the reopening of the Temajuk-Telok Melano border crossing, with an operational target set for August 2026,’ said Budi in an official release received by Kompas.com on Wednesday, 27 May 2026. He explained that one of the key agreed priorities is accelerating the deployment of CIQS facilities—Customs, Immigration, Quarantine, and Security. Beyond operational aspects, the forum also stressed the importance of expediting supporting infrastructure development. This infrastructure includes improving road quality, providing clean water, strengthening telecommunications networks, establishing passenger transport routes, banking services, and enhancing the tourism sector through better amenities, accessibility, and attractions. This enhancement is deemed crucial to expand capacity for cross-border passenger and goods services and ensure smooth border activities. Sambas Regency Government has also expressed its support for the central government’s management and maintenance of the Temajuk border crossing point through BNPP coordination. This local government support is considered vital to ensuring the long-term sustainability of border crossing operations.