KKP Reveals There Are Wealth From China Spread In 700 Indonesian Water Points

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) revealed the potential for ship sinking objects (BMKT) or treasure in the Indonesian sea. In total, there are around 700 BMKT points.

Director of Marine Resources of the Directorate General of Marine Management of the KKP Frista Yorhanita said, of the 700 BMKT points, about 90 percent of them came from China. For its location, it is on the railway line or trade route that is usually crossed by Chinese ships, including the waters of Sumatra and Java.

"We have identified for all of Indonesia, there are approximately 700 potential points for BMKT and they are spread throughout Indonesia, but the majority are on the route. So, the trade route used to be, ships from China," Frista said at a press conference at the Strategic Program. Directorate General of Marine Management at the KKP office, Jakarta, Thursday, December 4.

Regarding the value of the treasure, said Frista, it cannot be determined before the appointment is made. After being appointed, these items will be assessed through a taxation process involving the Ministry of Finance (Kemenkeu).

"If it's still below, it's a rough potential, but it can't be used as a ( benchmark) either, yes. Because the process is an antique, it must be seen whether it breaks or not. That value is already far different," he said.

Of the 700 BMKT points that have been identified, according to Frista, 13 appointment permits have been issued by the government. However, he has not been able to convey the total value of the treasure finding.

"Some have been appointed. We have issued 13 appointment permits. (The value) I need to check first, because I do not memorize it," he said.