Government Advances Giant Sea Wall Project in Batang to Combat Tidal Flooding
The central government is continuing to mature plans for the construction of a Giant Sea Wall in Batang Regency, Central Java. This strategic project is designed as a permanent solution to address tidal flooding that frequently affects the northern coast of Java, while also serving as a new economic engine for local communities.
M. Khadik, Principal Expert for Regional and Coastal Community Partnerships at the Java Coast Management Authority, explained that the government is currently focusing on preparing regulations and technical mapping in the field. “We are still preparing the rules and conducting mapping. In principle, this project is ongoing to find the best solution that can harmonise the interests of coastal communities, fishermen, and local governments,” Khadik said in Batang on Tuesday (16/6/2026).
The construction of the Giant Sea Wall is not only projected as protective infrastructure against rising sea levels. The government aims for the project to unlock new economic opportunities for fishermen and businesses along the northern coast of Java (Pantura). Khadik added that the embankment is expected to deliver sustainable positive impacts. “The hope is certainly not only to overcome tidal flooding, but also to open new opportunities for fishermen and business actors, and provide comfort for local governments along the north coast of Java,” he added.
On a macro scale, the giant sea wall project is planned to stretch approximately 2,000 kilometres. This massive infrastructure will traverse four major provinces on the island of Java, namely Banten, West Java, Central Java, and East Java. However, the government acknowledges that several technical challenges still need to be resolved. One crucial point is the existence of underground internet cable networks in coastal areas. The government is reviewing the option of using canals to maintain budget efficiency. If construction is carried out directly in a closed manner, costs are considered more efficient. However, if the underground cable networks must be relocated, the budget requirement in Rupiah for the project is expected to increase significantly. To date, the total cost estimation and implementation schedule are still under in-depth calculation by relevant ministries, agencies, and the authority body. The government hopes the Giant Sea Wall will become a comprehensive solution in strengthening the resilience of coastal areas against the impacts of global climate change.