Indonesia gains 127.3 hectares on Sebatik after border deal with Malaysia
“The completion of the delimitation of the boundary on Sebatik Island is a concrete manifestation of the success of peaceful diplomacy that strengthens Indonesia’s territorial sovereignty,” Presidential Chief of Staff Muhammad Qodari stated here on Wednesday.
Based on the agreement, the 127.3 hectares of land that previously belonged to Malaysia now legally belong to Indonesia. Meanwhile, only about 4.9 hectares of the area along Indonesia’s old border has now become part of Malaysian territory.
As a measure to strengthen functions in border areas, the government has allocated a budget of Rp86 billion (US$5.02 million) for 2026. This fund is allocated for the operation of 15 cross-border posts (PLBN) under the management of the National Border Management Agency (BNPP).
From December 2016 to October 2024, Indonesia has established 15 PLBNs out of a total of 18 planned posts in various regions. Operational PLBNs include Entikong, Motaain, Skouw and Sebatik, where land border delimitation has recently been completed.
Qodari explained that the PLBNs have transformed into new centers of economic growth in border areas. More than 2.4 million people have been recorded crossing through these 15 PLBNs, with a total trade value reaching Rp13.5 trillion (US$787.49 million).
The Presidential Staff Office (KSP) continues to conduct regular field monitoring and verification to ensure the smooth operation of the PLBNs. This step includes coordinating the ratification of the Border Crossing Agreement (BCA) between Indonesia and Malaysia as well as Indonesia and Timor-Leste.
The existence of strategic PLBN such as Motaain in East Nusa Tenggara and Skouw in Papua has been proven to increase international tourist visits and local product exports.
The government is committed to making border areas the front porch of the country; safe, orderly and highly economically competitive.
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Translator: Aditya Ramadhan, Prisca Triferna, Yashinta Difa