Reflecting on the Sea Fence Case, IPB University Professor Reveals Challenges of Marine Management in Indonesia

Prof Neviaty Putri Zamani, Professor of Maritime Affairs at IPB University, spoke at the intellectual discussion forum “Critical Analysis of the Sea Fence and the Power of Space in this Country”. In the forum, she stated that the practice of controlling or restricting access to marine areas caused a number of problems.

“The practice of controlling or limiting access to marine areas causes conflicts related to the rights of traditional fishermen, environmental preservation, and territorial claims,” she said in the Muslimah Agricultural Talks #3 discussion with other women activists, consisting of lecturers and students of IPB University, some time ago.

The discussion aimed to provide education about the full picture of the reality of sea fencing in Jakarta Bay. The women activists involved are expected to be able to read the facts clearly, as well as build their roles and responsibilities as intellectuals.

“One of the challenges in Indonesia’s marine sector is investment pressure versus ecological sustainability,” said the IPB University lecturer at the Department of Marine Science and Technology, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science. 

According to her, it is feared that fenced areas will be used for reclamation or development, which has the potential to damage coastal ecosystems. 

This, she said, is because the development in Indonesia still focuses on economic investment without considering the ecological impact.

“Sea fencing is still a big issue in Indonesia so policy arrangements are needed that pay attention to the balance between economy and ecology,” explained Prof Nevi.

“Policy and law enforcement must be stronger and more inclusive,” she concluded. (*/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)