Unlicensed marine space use halted after ecological damage and local unrest reported in Singkep Barat
Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has sealed off an illegal coastal project in Lingga Regency, Riau Islands, involving unauthorized reclamation and the construction of a private port terminal, citing ecological harm and public complaints.
KKP Responds to Community Complaints
On May 6, 2025, the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) ordered a halt to illegal marine space use in Singkep Barat District, Lingga Regency, Riau Islands, following reports from local residents. The unlicensed activities involved the construction a private terminal and land reclamation, allegedly causing environmental degradation and disrupting traditional fishing zones.
Pung Nugroho Saksono—Director General of Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance (PSDKP)—confirmed that no Marine Spatial Use Conformity Approval (PKKPRL) or reclamation permits had been obtained.
He stated that the ministry conducted a field inspection following strong evidence of ecological harm and community unrest.
On-Site Inspection Reveals Violations
The illegal project, attributed to PT TBJ and PT Hermina Jaya, was discovered during an inspection by the Special Coastal and Small Island Surveillance Police (Polsus PWP3K) from the Batam PSDKP Base. Polsus officials sealed the 0.05-hectare reclamation site by placing signage and police lines in the presence of company representatives.
Semuel Sandi Rundupadang, Head of the Batam PSDKP Base, confirmed that further legal analysis is underway, with potential administrative sanctions, including substantial fines.
He noted that the companies could be held accountable for violating coastal management regulations and operating without mandatory environmental clearance.
The halted activities were found in breach of marine spatial governance regulations, which are designed to protect ocean ecosystems and ensure legal compliance in coastal development.
The absence of a PKKPRL, which serves as the baseline permit for any marine space use, signaled clear regulatory violations.
Reclamation and port developments without legal oversight risk damaging fragile marine ecosystems, displacing traditional fishing routes, and creating social tension in coastal communities.
KKP considers such violations serious, particularly when environmental consequences extend beyond project boundaries.
Ministry Reiterates Compliance Mandate
Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Sakti Wahyu Trenggono urged all developers to obtain legal approval before initiating any marine projects.
He emphasized that the PKKPRL permit ensures projects align with ecological, spatial, and social standards, preventing conflicts and safeguarding marine sustainability.
“This basic permit is not optional—it’s mandatory to prevent overlap and protect coastal ecosystems,” Trenggono said, calling for stricter industry compliance.
He affirmed the ministry’s continued commitment to enforcement and collaboration with local communities.
Signal to Investors and Marine Operators
The enforcement action in Lingga is seen as a firm warning to businesses and developers planning projects in Indonesia’s marine zones.
KKP’s intervention underscores the need for environmentally responsible development and strict adherence to national marine laws.
As Indonesia accelerates its coastal and maritime economic agenda, the government is reinforcing that growth must not come at the expense of sustainability. Authorities are encouraging public vigilance in reporting violations, to help preserve small islands and safeguard coastal livelihoods.
The sealing of unauthorized reclamation and port construction in Lingga highlights Indonesia’s growing resolve to protect its marine territory.
This case sets a precedent for lawful, sustainable marine development and emphasizes the role of regulatory enforcement in defending traditional communities and ocean ecosystems.
Sources: Kementerian Kelautan dan Perikanan Republik Indonesia (2025), Batam News (2025), batamnewsonline on IG (2025)
Keywords: Illegal Coastal Project, Reclamation In Lingga, KKP Seal Operation, Terminal Without Permit, Riau Islands Marine Violation, Singkep Barat Reclamation
