RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The settlement of the Indonesia-Malaysia land boundary on Sebatik Island, North Kalimantan Province, not only impacts territorial sovereignty but also creates opportunities for economic growth in the border region.

This was conveyed by Presidential Chief of Staff Muhammad Qodari following the completion of the land boundary delimitation with Malaysia.

"The completion of the boundary delimitation on Sebatik Island is a concrete manifestation of the success of peaceful diplomacy that strengthens Indonesia's territorial sovereignty," said Qodari at the Bina Graha Building, Presidential Palace Complex, Jakarta, Wednesday, April 15, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Based on the agreement, 127.3 hectares of land that were previously part of Malaysia now legally belong to Indonesia. Conversely, only about 4.9 hectares of land on the old Indonesian border now have become part of Malaysian territory.

The government is also encourages the optimization of the border area by strengthening the State Border Crossing Post (PLBN). In 2026, IDR 86 billion has been allocated to support the operations of the 15 border checkpoints managed by the National Border Management Agency (BNPP).

From 2016 to 2024, 15 of the planned 18 PLBNs were built and are now operational, including Entikong, Motaain, Skouw, and Sebatik, all of which have clearly demarcated borders.

PLBNs are more than just guard posts; they now function as new centers of economic activity. Government records show that more than 2.4 million people passed through the 15 PLBNs, generating trade valued at IDR 13.5 trillion.

In addition to increasing the flow of goods and people, the presence of PLBNs in strategic areas has impacted the growth of the tourism sector and local product exports, particularly in areas such as Motaain in East Nusa Tenggara and Skouw in Papua.

The government is monitoring and evaluating PLBN operations, including cross-border cooperation through Border Crossing Agreements with Malaysia and Timor-Leste. In the future, border areas will be seen not only as dividing lines between countries, but also as gateways capable of driving economic growth while reflecting Indonesian sovereignty. ***

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