Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Ministry of Home Affairs has underlined that Indonesia and Timor-Leste have yet to resolve issues regarding several land border segments on Timor Island, though discussions remain ongoing.
This was conveyed by the ministry's National Border Management Agency (BNPP) during a hearing with Commission II of the House of Representatives (DPR) at the Parliamentary Complex in Jakarta on Tuesday.
BNPP Secretary Makhruzi Rahman identified the unsettled border segments as Noelbesi–Citrana in Kupang District, Subina–Oben in Timor Tengah Utara District, and Humamania–Pasabe in Malaka District—all districts are part of Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Province.
"The status of these segments cannot yet be determined because several issues must still be comprehensively resolved through technical and diplomatic mechanisms," he told legislators.
He assured the DPR that the BNPP would continue to coordinate closely with relevant ministries in Indonesia as well as with the government of Timor-Leste in pursuit of mutually acceptable border agreements.
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Rahman emphasized that resolving border disputes is crucial not only for ensuring legal certainty and maintaining diplomatic relations but also for guaranteeing security, safety, and adequate public services for Indonesians living in frontier areas.
During the hearing, the BNPP also noted that Indonesia still faces unresolved land and sea border issues at more than 30 locations with neighboring countries, including Timor-Leste.
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According to the 2025–2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN), the government aims to address these border issues gradually through cross-sectoral coordination.
In addition, the BNPP stressed the importance of enhancing infrastructure and facilities at Indonesia's cross-border posts to support residents' activities and sustain good relations with neighboring states.
Meanwhile, DPR's Commission II reminded the government to intensify diplomatic efforts, strengthen field monitoring, and take preventive measures to mitigate potential social issues in border regions.
