UMM Lecturer on the 30.16 km Fence in the Tangerang Sea: Threats to the Ecosystem and Alleged Land Reclamation

Author : Humas | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 09:14 WIB
Coastal and Marine Area Management Expert, Dr. David Hermawan, M.P., IPM., (Photo: Special)

The 30.16-kilometer fencing project in the Tangerang Sea area has attracted public attention. The claim that the bamboo fence is intended to prevent coastal erosion and tsunamis has raised numerous questions, particularly regarding the true motivations behind the project. Coastal and Marine Management Expert, Dr. David Hermawan, M.P., IPM., presented a critical analysis revealing concerning facts related to this case..

"This 30.16-kilometer fence costs around IDR 4-5 billion. Such an amount clearly doesn’t come from the voluntary efforts of ordinary people. There are large parties funding this project. The reason for using bamboo fences to prevent erosion lacks a strong scientific basis. The usual methods are breakwaters or stone revetments, not bamboo fences," explained David, who is also a lecturer at University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM).

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Field findings reveal even more significant indications. According to the data, there are 263 certified land plots in the area. The majority are owned by large companies, controlling 20 plots, and in some cases, up to 234 plots. The remaining plots are owned by individuals. This fact suggests that the fencing project is not merely for environmental conservation, but rather part of a larger reclamation plan for the development of a 30,000-hectare new city.

"The economic value of land acquisition could reach IDR 30 trillion. However, after reclamation, the project’s value is estimated to reach IDR 300 quadrillion. Assuming the reclamation area is 30,000 hectares or 30 million square meters, and the land value is at least IDR 10 million per square meter, the profit could reach IDR 300 trillion," he explained.

The environmental impact on the sea is considered to be very significant. The pattern of ocean currents will change, and the coral reef ecosystems and seagrass beds, which serve as fish habitats, will also be damaged. This is not just an economic issue, but also a matter of ecological sustainability that must be carefully considered.

Furthermore, he revealed several potential procedural violations. Coastal reclamation should have official permits from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), a clear Environmental Impact Analysis (AMDAL), as well as adjustments to spatial planning and zoning. Unfortunately, this project is suspected to be proceeding without official permits.

"Law Number 27 of 2007 on Coastal and Small Island Area Management clearly stipulates that coastal area management must be based on the principles of sustainability, protecting ecosystems, and improving the welfare of communities without harming the environment. This project violates these principles. The marine area should not be certified, whether in the form of SHGU (Right to Build) or SHM (Certificate of Land Ownership)," he emphasized.

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He also highlighted the involvement of several large developers, such as Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK 2), who are suspected of monopolizing the sea land. This not only raises legal issues but also threatens fair access to resources for small communities that depend on the sea for their livelihoods.

"This project should be reconsidered or even halted because its impact will damage ecosystems and the social fabric of coastal communities. The government must act swiftly to enforce the regulations and ensure all procedures are followed correctly. Under President Prabowo's leadership, I hope the government can take decisive action to resolve this case. Regulations are there to be enforced. If not now, when? If not us, who?" he concluded. (vin/wil/ind)

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