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Island Dispute: Aceh and North Sumatra Provinces Clash Over Territory
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Jakarta – A long-standing territorial dispute between the provinces of Aceh and North Sumatra has resurfaced following a central government decision to place four islands, previously considered part of Aceh, under the administration of North Sumatra. The Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) announced the decision, based on the Minister of Home Affairs Decree Number 300.2.2-2138 of 2025, issued on April 25, 2025, concerning the Provision and Updating of Codes and Data of Government and Island Administration Areas.
The islands in question are Mangkir Besar, Mangkir Kecil, Lipan, and Panjang, all located within the Central Tapanuli Regency of North sumatra. this move has sparked controversy and potential legal challenges, given the decades-long conflict over the islands’ regional status.
Past Context of the Island Dispute
Safrizal Zakaria ali,Director General of the Ministry of Home Affairs Administration (Adwil),explained that the dispute’s origins trace back to 2008 when a national Team for the Earth’s foundation,comprising representatives from various ministries and government agencies,conducted an island verification process across Indonesia.
Did you Know? the Indonesian archipelago is the largest in the world, with over 17,000 islands, according to the Geospatial Data Agency (BIG) BIG.go.id.
During the 2008 verification in Banda aceh, the team identified and standardized 260 islands within Aceh Province. Though, the four disputed islands-Mangkir Besar, Mangkir Kecil, Lipan, and Panjang-were not included in that count, according to Safrizal, as reported by Antaranews.
The Governor of Aceh at the time confirmed on November 4, 2009, that Aceh Province consisted of 260 islands. However,the names and coordinates of the four islands were later changed. Mangkir Besar Island was formerly known as Besar Rangit Island, Kedangkan Kecil Island was previously Small Rangitur Island, and Lipan Island was formerly Malelo Island.
Conflicting Claims and Verification Results
Simultaneously, during the 2008 verification process in North Sumatra, the regional government reported 213 islands, including the four now under dispute. The coordinates provided by North Sumatra placed Mangkir Besar, Mangkir Kecil, lipan, and panjang within their territory.
the Governor of North Sumatra confirmed these findings in 2009, stating that the province comprised 213 islands, including the four in question. This discrepancy in verification results has fueled the ongoing conflict.
Pro Tip: Island disputes are often complex, involving historical claims, resource control, and administrative boundaries. understanding the local context is crucial for resolution.
Legal Challenges and Future Negotiations
The Ministry of Home Affairs acknowledges the potential for legal challenges arising from this decision. The coordinates provided by the Aceh Governor placed the islands within the Pulau Banyak District, not the North Singkil District area.
To address the escalating tensions, the Ministry of Home Affairs plans to facilitate a meeting between the Governors of Aceh and North Sumatra to seek a resolution. The goal is to prevent further friction and ensure a smooth transition of administrative control.
Island Statistics
| Island Name | Previous Name (Aceh) | Current Administrative Region |
|---|---|---|
| Mangkir Besar | Besar Rangit Island | North Sumatra |
| Mangkir Kecil | Small Rangitur Island | North Sumatra |
| Lipan island | Malelo Island | North Sumatra |
| Panjang Island | N/A | North Sumatra |
What impact will this decision have on the local communities living on these islands?
how can both provinces work together to ensure the well-being of the island residents during this transition?
Evergreen Insights: Background, Context, Historical Trends
Territorial disputes between regions are not uncommon, often stemming from unclear historical boundaries, resource competition, or differing interpretations of administrative maps.In Indonesia, a nation composed of thousands of islands, maritime boundaries and island ownership are especially sensitive issues.The resolution of these disputes requires careful consideration of historical data, geographical surveys, and the needs of local populations. The central government plays a crucial role in mediating these conflicts and ensuring equitable outcomes.
Indonesia’s commitment to resolving territorial disputes peacefully is enshrined in its national laws and international agreements. The country actively participates in regional forums and bilateral negotiations to address boundary issues with neighboring countries. The Ministry of Home Affairs is responsible for maintaining accurate records of administrative boundaries and facilitating dialog between conflicting regions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Aceh-North Sumatra Island Dispute
- Why are the four Aceh islands being transferred to North Sumatra?
- The Ministry of Home Affairs based its decision on updated codes and data of government and island administration areas, following conflicting claims and verification results from 2008.
- What is the historical basis for the dispute over these islands?
- The dispute dates back to 2008 when conflicting reports emerged during a national island verification process, with both aceh and North Sumatra claiming the islands.
- How did the names of the islands change over time?
- According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Mangkir Besar Island was formerly known as Besar rangit Island, Kedangkan kecil Island was previously Small Rangitur Island, and Lipan Island was formerly Malelo Island.
- What steps are being taken to resolve the conflict?
- The Ministry of Home Affairs plans to facilitate a meeting between the Governors of Aceh and North Sumatra to seek a mutually agreeable solution.
- What is the role of the central government in this dispute?
- The central government, through the Ministry of Home Affairs, is responsible for mediating the conflict, ensuring accurate administrative boundaries, and facilitating dialogue between the regions.
- What are the potential legal challenges to this decision?
- The Aceh provincial government may challenge the decision based on historical claims and discrepancies in coordinate data.
- How will this change affect the residents of the islands?
- The impact on residents will depend on the administrative transition and any changes in local governance or resource management.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered legal or official advice.Consult with relevant authorities for specific guidance.
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