Over Rp 1.3 Billion Worth of Illegal Alcohol Floods Anambas Monthly, Prompting Urgent Action

The illegal trade of alcoholic beverages in Indonesia’s Anambas Islands has spiraled out of control, with authorities now linking it to alarming social issues including child abuse.

Alarming Monthly Losses From Unlicensed Alcohol

The government of the Anambas Islands Regency is cracking down on the rampant distribution of unlicensed alcoholic beverages, or mikol, which is costing the region more than Rp 1.35 billion (SGD 108,000) in untaxed monthly turnover. According to Sahtiar, the Anambas Regional Secretary, some 3,000 boxes of mikol enter the region illegally each month, with no contribution to either national coffers or local revenue.

“This is a massive figure, but sadly, none of it benefits the country or the region,” Sahtiar stated during a closed-door meeting with TNI and police officials in Tarempa on July 21.

Currently, only Pulau Bawah Resort is officially licensed to sell alcohol in Anambas. All other sales are deemed illicit and subject to seizure.

Legal And Social Consequences Mount

Iptu Alfajri, Head of Criminal Investigation at Polres Anambas, confirmed that the issue has reached emergency status. He cited illegal alcohol as a major factor behind a rising number of serious crimes, including child sexual abuse cases, which are reportedly high in the region.

“Many of these offenses stem from alcohol consumption in uncontrolled environments, often involving minors,” Alfajri noted. He emphasized that social decay tied to alcohol misuse must be addressed collaboratively.

Law Enforcement Ready To Act

In response, authorities are planning a coordinated crackdown involving raids, public education, and business outreach. While a persuasive approach will be prioritized to encourage traders to apply for legal permits, enforcement will be strict for those who refuse to comply.

“We’ll seize and destroy unlicensed products if necessary,” Sahtiar warned. Alfajri supported this stance, saying, “If soft measures fail, we’ll escalate according to the law.”

Lack of Licensing System Exploited

Data from the DPMPTSP (One-Stop Licensing Service) indicates that no licenses, aside from Pulau Bawah Resort, have been issued for alcohol sales in Anambas. Nonetheless, small warungs (stalls) continue to sell mikol discreetly.

Alfajri underlined the legal risks for traders operating without permits. “Having a license ensures the product is distributed responsibly. Without one, you’re on the wrong side of the law.”

Protecting Youth And Public Order

The illegal alcohol trade doesn’t just pose financial and legal risks—it affects the social fabric of Anambas. Authorities worry that underage drinking could lead to increased violence, sexual abuse, and mental health issues among vulnerable youth.

“Alcohol-induced violence and crime are on the rise,” Alfajri stressed, urging immediate action to safeguard future generations. The combined force of the police, local government, and military is now focusing on a holistic prevention strategy.

The surging illegal alcohol trade in Anambas reflects a broader challenge faced by remote regions balancing tourism, local customs, and legal control. With over Rp 1.3 billion lost monthly and rising social harm, the issue demands a firm, united response from authorities. For both Indonesians and Singaporeans, this case highlights the growing impact of unregulated substances on public safety and youth development across the region.

Sources: Batam Pos (2025) , Tribun Batam (2025)

Keywords: Anambas, Illegal Alcohol, Mikol, Police Crackdown, Child Abuse, Alcohol Licensing