Coordinating Minister For Political, Legal And Security Affairs: President's Decision On Dispute Of 4 Islands For Political Stability

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs (Menko Polkam) Budi Gunawan said President Prabowo's attitude regarding the dispute between the four islands was part of the government's efforts to maintain Indonesian political stability.

"This (P Prabowo's decision) reflects President Prabowo Subianto's strong commitment in upholding regional legal certainty, as well as maintaining social and political stability, especially in Aceh and North Sumatra," said Budi Gunawan as quoted by ANTARA, Tuesday, June 17.

Prabowo issued a decision stating the status of Mangkir Besar Island, Mangkir Kecil Island, Lipan Island, and Panjang Island, as part of the administrative area of Aceh Province.

The decision, said Budi Gunawan, was taken by the president based on many considerations, one of which was the cultural and social aspects of each region.

"This is also a form of respect for historical track records, cultural aspects, and the social dynamics of the people of Aceh," said Budi Gunawan.

The man who is familiarly called BG also ensured that this decision was made through various dialogues and harmonious atmospheres for the creation of policies that could be accepted by the public.

"President Prabowo's policy of placing national stability and justice as a top priority, including in regional border issues, is the main basis for every strategic decision-making of the government," concluded BG.

The dispute over four islands in the Aceh Singkil region between Aceh and North Sumatra has been going on for a long time. Both claim ownership.

Then, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued Decree Number 300.2.2-2138 of 2025 concerning the Provision and Update of Codes and Data on Government and Island Administration Areas, set for April 25, 2025.

The Ministry of Home Affairs' decision determined the administrative status of the four islands as part of the Central Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra Province.

Later, President Prabowo Subianto decided that the status of Panjang Island, Lipan Island, Mangkir Gadang Island, and Mangkir Kepek Island was included in the administrative area of Aceh Province.

This was conveyed by the Minister of State Secretary (Mensesneg) Prasetyo Hadi after holding a limited meeting with a number of related parties at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta, Tuesday.

"The government has decided that the four islands, namely Panjang Island, Lipan Island, Mangkir Gadang Island, and Mangkir Ketek administratively based on government documents, enter the administrative area of Aceh," said the Minister of State Secretary.