DPR Calls for Official Recognition of Bakamla as Coast Guard

TheIndonesia.id - The House of Representatives (DPR) has highlighted the importance of officially designating the Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) as Indonesia's coast guard.

According to Antara News Agency, during a hearing with Bakamla head, Vice Admiral Irvansyah, to discuss the Maritime Security Bill in Jakarta on Monday, DPR Deputy Chairman of Commission I, Ahmad Heryawan, emphasized that the bill's progress is critical for Indonesia, an archipelagic nation with vast maritime territory.

"This large nation, with oceans covering most of its territory, urgently needs a law regulating maritime security," Heryawan stated.

He pointed out the lack of legislation clearly defining Indonesia's coast guard or assigning it to a specific institution, stressing the need to legally establish Bakamla’s role under the law.

Vice Admiral Irvansyah added that since its establishment, Bakamla has been directed to function as Indonesia's coast guard. However, he noted that regulatory strengthening is needed to enhance Bakamla's ability to be a reliable, adaptable, and responsive force for maritime security.