The article discusses Indonesia’s conceptualization of “maritime security,” encapsulated in the terms “Keamanan Maritim” and “Keamanan Laut.” Both terms essentially translate to “maritime security” and are the primary expressions utilized by the Indonesian government. The linguistic backdrop includes “bahari,” meaning oceanic, and “nusantara,” which refers to the archipelagic nature of Indonesia, a concept used by past leaders like Presidents Sukarno and Suharto to frame national strategies.
While there is no official definition of “maritime security” from the Indonesian government, it is broadly described in documents, particularly under Presidential Decree No. 16/2017, which presents a framework for Indonesia’s Ocean Policy. This decree emphasizes the state’s responsibility in addressing threats from both domestic and international fronts and promotes regional peace and stability. It offers a unified approach to maritime security, defense, and safety, advocating for a synergistic operation among various maritime agencies.
Significant legislative documents shape Indonesia’s maritime security discourse, including:
- Presidential Decree No. 16/2017: Establishes the framework for maritime policy.
- Law No. 32/2014: Leads to the creation of Bakamla, Indonesia’s Coast Guard.
- Coordinating Ministry’s Decree No. 128/2019: Addresses maritime diplomacy and security issues.
- Law No. 17/2008: Focuses on navigational safety without expressly mentioning maritime security.
- Presidential Decree No. 81/2005: Establishes the Marine Security Coordination Agency.
- Law No. 6/1996: Talks about territorial waters security intertwined with defense concerns.
The Indonesian approach to maritime security encompasses a range of elements—environmental protection, safety, fisheries management, counter-terrorism, and law enforcement—though it lacks a precise enumeration of these components. The Coordinating Ministry’s Decree highlights various maritime threats but frames them largely within a diplomatic context rather than strictly associating them with security definitions.
Indonesia’s outlook on maritime security has developed significantly over time. Initially imbalanced towards land-based security during the New Order era, maritime issues gained prominence following political reforms. Laws enacted during President Jokowi’s administration represent a shift towards recognizing the holistic nature of maritime security. In contrast to earlier regulations focused mainly on navigation safety, current policies acknowledge broader maritime concerns.
Culturally, Indonesia’s strategic posture has been shaped by historical experiences, including the Revolutionary War and a legacy of military dominance, which often skewed security assessments towards internal stability. This has historically led to the neglect of maritime issues, but the post-Reformasi period has seen a renewed focus on developing a robust maritime security framework. The changing dynamics demonstrate Indonesia’s transition from viewing maritime security as merely a navigation concern to appreciating its significance as a comprehensive element of national security strategy.
