Jakarta – Ongoing efforts by the Indonesian Navy to dismantle an unauthorized sea fence in Tangerang, Banten, continue to make steady progress. As of January 27, 2025, around 18.7 kilometers of the sea fence have been dismantled, leaving approximately 11.46 kilometers out of the total 30.16 kilometers.
The Dismantling Process
The taskforce, comprising Indonesian Navy officers and local fishermen, has faced several challenges during their mission. Weather conditions, including high waves, and the physical characteristics of the bamboo used in the fence have posed significant obstacles. The bamboo, measuring up to 2.5 meters in height, combined with numerous fish cages, have hindered the progress of the towing ships.
Deployment and Tools
The dismantling operation is being conducted across three main areas: Tanjung Pasir, Kronjo, and Mauk. The Indonesian Navy has deployed a variety of vessels and equipment, including two Kal/Patkamla, six Sea Riders, 12 PK, five RBB, two RHIB, and several fishermen’s boats. A total of 568 personnel, drawn from the Indonesian Navy, Bakamla, Polair, and local fishermen, are involved in the operation.
Initiative and Goals
The dismantling operation began on January 18, 2025, following instructions from President Prabowo Subianto to the Indonesian Navy. The Navy aims to remove the sea fence at a rate of approximately 2 kilometers per day, a target set by Brigadier General Harry Indarto, Commander of Lantamal III Jakarta.
Impact and Scope
The sea fence spans 16 villages across six sub-districts in Tangerang, affecting a significant portion of the coastline. It affects three villages in Kronjo and Kemiri districts, Pakuhaji, four villages in Mauk, one village in Sukadiri, and two in Teluknaga.
Environmental and Economic Issues
The construction and presence of this illegal sea fence have caused considerable concern among local fishermen. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries only sealed the fence on January 9, 2025, citing a lack of a Marine Space Utilization Activity Suitability Approval (KKPRL).
According to marine experts, such structures can pose significant threats to marine ecosystems and the economic well-being of coastal communities. They can disrupt natural habitats, hinder fishing activities, and lead to the destruction of coral reefs.
Editor’s Choice
For more insights on the potential impact of sea fences on coastal environments, read this article from Unair Marine Expert: Sea Fences Potentially Damage Ecological and Economic Order of Coastal Communities.
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