Indonesia's Dilemma in Dealing with China

The government is unsure how to handle Chinese vessels trespassing Indonesian waters in Natuna, the Riau Islands, and the interpretation of the exclusive economic zone. Jokowi’s ministers have various opinions on the matter.

The Coordinating Maritime Affairs and Investment Minister, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, played down the existence of Chinese coast guard vessels in North Natuna waters. He argued that Indonesia still had room for improvement in protecting that territory. Prabowo Subianto, the Defense Minister, showed a similar sentiment. He said that the government could solve Chinese infringement on Indonesian waters through a nonmilitary approach since China is a friend.

In contrast with Luhut and Prabowo, the Foreign Affairs Minister, Retno Marsudi, asserted that the appearance of China’s vessels in Indonesian waters was against the international law imposed by the UN or United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Retno even pointed out that China ratified the decree, substantially limiting national rights and jurisdiction over the oceans, including Indonesia’s coastline in Natuna. Although the government chose the diplomatic approach, Retno was ready to defend the area by taking legal action.