Table of Contents
Introduction
In 2023, the Indonesian government announced the new maritime boundary between Bali and Nusa Tenggara. This news has caused some controversy among local communities, fishermen, and researchers.
Background
The previous maritime boundary between Bali and Nusa Tenggara was not clearly defined, leading to conflicts between fishermen and law enforcement officers. The Indonesian government decided to redraw the boundary to clarify the jurisdiction of each region.
The New Boundary
The new boundary between Bali and Nusa Tenggara is based on the equidistance principle, which means that the boundary line is drawn at an equal distance from the nearest points of each island’s coastline. The new boundary is approximately 42 nautical miles from Bali’s coast and 12 nautical miles from Nusa Tenggara’s coast.
Impacts on Communities
The new boundary has caused concern among local communities, especially fishermen, who have been fishing in the area for generations. Some fishermen worry that the new boundary will restrict their fishing activities and reduce their income. However, the Indonesian government has assured them that they will still be able to fish in the area, as long as they follow the new regulations.
Impacts on Research
The new boundary has also impacted marine research in the area. Some researchers have expressed concern that the new boundary will limit their access to important research sites. However, the Indonesian government has stated that researchers can apply for permits to conduct their research in the area.
Conclusion
The new maritime boundary between Bali and Nusa Tenggara is a significant development for Indonesia’s maritime jurisdiction. While it has caused some concerns among local communities and researchers, the Indonesian government has taken steps to address these issues and ensure that the new regulations are fair and equitable for all parties involved.