Confirmed! Indonesia Expands Territory: 127.3 Hectares of Malaysian Territory Now Officially Indonesian

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Indonesia’s territory has officially expanded. The country secured a diplomatic victory in border demarcation on Pulau Sebatik, the island that shares a border with neighbouring Malaysia. This was disclosed by Muhammad Qodari in an official statement on 15 April 2026, while he was still the Presidential Chief of Staff (KSP). He is now serving as Head of the Government Communications Agency (Bakom) after being sworn in on 27 April 2026.

Qodari explained that under the latest agreement with Malaysia, the area of 127.3 hectares on the island that borders neighbouring Malaysia is now Indonesian.

“The settlement of the border delineation on Pulau Sebatik is a tangible result of successful peaceful diplomacy that strengthens Indonesia’s territorial sovereignty,” Qodari said, quoted on Saturday 23 May 2026. “With the new border line agreed, the area of 127.3 hectares that previously formed part of Malaysia under the old boundary is now officially Indonesian,” added Qodari.

As a concession in the border adjustment, only 4.9 hectares of territory that previously appeared on Indonesia’s old map has shifted to Malaysia.

Qodari said this move aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s ambition to strengthen the national defence and security system. One of the main instruments is the construction of Border Crossing Posts (PLBN).

Since December 2016 to October 2024, Indonesia had operated 15 PLBN out of 18 planned. Qodari enumerated several PLBNs, including Entikong, Mota’ain, Badau, Aruk, and Sebatik/Sei Nyamuk in North Kalimantan.

The crossing points are not only defence fortifications. The government notes significant economic impacts from cross-border posts. In 2025 alone, more than 2.4 million people crossed at the 15 PLBNs, with trade valued at Rp13.5 trillion.

Qodari stated that PLBNs now play a strategic role, not only as a security bulwark but also as engines driving mobility and the economy of border communities.

To keep operations robust, the government has allocated a budget of Rp86 billion for 2026. Meanwhile, the remaining three PLBNs — Sei Kelik (West Kalimantan), Oepoli (East Nusa Tenggara), and Long Midang (North Kalimantan) — are still being pursued for completion, though progress is hampered by material access and exit-entry point agreements.

Regarding residents affected by the border shift, Qodari stressed that the government would prioritise compensation and protection of community rights to ensure no one is socially or economically harmed.