Nusron: Install Boundary Markers Now to Prevent Neighbours from Encroaching on Land

Land disputes can arise from seemingly minor issues, such as unclear property boundaries. Such situations can escalate at any time into disagreements or even neighbourly conflicts that lead to legal proceedings. To prevent conflicts and safeguard land security, citizens can take a simple step: installing boundary markers. In practice, this straightforward measure is often overlooked by landowners. Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning (ATR/BPN) Nusron Wahid has repeatedly stressed the importance of clear boundary markers. ‘Installing boundary markers makes land safer. With stakes in place, there will be no disputes and no encroachment by neighbours or others,’ Nusron said, according to the ATR/BPN ministry website on Thursday, 28 May 2026. This allows all parties to see and agree on the stake positions upfront, minimising future boundary disputes. ‘Landowners are urged to place boundary stakes at their property lines after seeking permission from adjacent landowners to reach mutual agreement on the boundaries,’ Nusron stated. This simple step is easier and cheaper than resolving disputes in court. Beyond financial loss, escalating land conflicts can damage social relationships between neighbours. Boundary markers should be permanent. Avoid natural markers like trees, rocks, or soil mounds as they can change over time. The ATR/BPN ministry has set criteria for boundary markers: stakes must be at least 50 cm long, with 40 cm buried underground and 10 cm visible above ground. ‘Boundary markers can be made of wood, concrete, or iron. The key is that each property’s boundary must be clearly marked,’ Nusron emphasised. Amid rising land values and denser urban settlements, clear property boundaries are essential. Though seemingly simple, boundary markers protect landowners’ rights and maintain good relations with neighbours.