Construction is slated to initiate on a massive sea wall project along the northern coast of Java, spanning approximately 535 kilometers across Banten, Jakarta, Central Java, and East Java. The North Java Coastal Authority Agency (BOPPJ) is currently developing the master plan for the project, which aims to protect the region from declining groundwater levels and tidal floods.
Protecting People and Assets
According to BOPPJ Head Didit Herdiawan, the project is critical to safeguarding both the population and national assets. He stated on February 23, 2026, that the sea wall is needed to protect 17-20 million people and approximately US$368 billion in national assets.
The planned coastal defenses will utilize an integrated system, combining offshore and onshore dikes with nature-based solutions, including mangrove ecosystem reinforcement.
Financing and Implementation
The estimated cost of the giant sea wall ranges from US$800 billion to US$1 trillion. The government intends to fund the project through the State Budget and various investments, including foreign capital. President Prabowo Subianto has stated that construction “will commence immediately,” and has opened the door to potential investors from China, South Korea, Japan, Europe, and the Middle East.
Construction is expected to take 15 to 20 years. Chairperson of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) Anindya Bakrie emphasized the need for a clear plan for cooperation and returns to attract private sector involvement, particularly given the project’s scale and duration. He noted that constructing the sea wall along the Jakarta coastline alone is estimated to cost around US$8 billion and take at least eight years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the planned sea wall?
The giant sea wall is planned to span approximately 535 kilometers along the northern coast of Java.
Why is this project considered urgent?
According to BOPPJ Head Didit Herdiawan, the urgent construction is necessary to protect Java’s northern coast from declining groundwater levels and tidal floods.
What is the estimated cost of the project?
The construction of the giant sea wall is estimated to require approximately US$800 billion to US$1 trillion.
As the project moves forward, the government will need to balance the urgency of coastal protection with the complexities of securing funding and ensuring long-term sustainability. Will the government be able to attract sufficient investment to realize this ambitious undertaking?
