Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has called for the proposed Bill on Archipelagic Regions to undergo rigorous harmonization with existing national and international laws. Speaking at a House of Representatives Special Committee meeting in Jakarta on Thursday, Sugiarto emphasized that the legislative proposal from the Regional Representative Council (DPD) must avoid jurisdictional conflicts and align with the constitutional framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.
The proposed bill must align with international obligations, specifically Law No. 17 of 1985, which ratifies the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Legal Alignment Requirements
The government requires the bill’s academic paper to be reconciled with several prevailing laws to ensure policy consistency. According to Sugiarto, the legislative process must integrate mandates from Law No. 23 of 2014 on Regional Government and Law No. 1 of 2022 regarding fiscal relations between central and regional governments.
Additional regulatory touchpoints include Law No. 27 of 2007 on the management of coastal areas and small islands, as well as Law No. 32 of 2014 on maritime affairs. Sugiarto noted that failing to synchronize these frameworks could lead to overlapping authorities, which would complicate the administration of Indonesia’s maritime regions.
The push for harmonization suggests a cautious legislative approach. By anchoring the new bill to existing maritime and fiscal laws, the government aims to prevent legal gridlock that often occurs when new regional mandates clash with established national administrative codes.
Addressing Regional Challenges
Despite the need for legal caution, the government acknowledges that archipelagic regions face distinct hurdles in connectivity and public service delivery. Sugiarto stated that the goal of the bill is to maximize the economic potential of the maritime sector while improving the welfare of residents in these unique geographical areas.
The government continues to provide support through current policy measures and development funding. Future legislative steps are expected to focus on balancing these regional development needs with broader national interests to ensure the sustainability of the policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the government want to harmonize the bill?
According to Bima Arya Sugiarto, harmonization is necessary to prevent overlapping authorities, legal inconsistencies, and potential conflicts with international law or the constitutional framework of Indonesia.
Which specific laws must the new bill align with?
The bill must align with Law No. 23 of 2014 (Regional Government), Law No. 1 of 2022 (Fiscal Relations), Law No. 27 of 2007 (Coastal Areas), Law No. 32 of 2014 (Maritime Affairs), and Law No. 17 of 1985 (UNCLOS).
What is the primary goal of the Archipelagic Regions Bill?
The initiative aims to strengthen the development of Indonesia’s archipelagic regions, improve public service delivery, and boost the economic potential of the maritime sector to enhance community welfare.
How do you believe improved connectivity will impact the daily lives of residents in Indonesia’s most remote island communities?
