Indonesia advances Regional Archipelagic Bill to protect island communities

The Regional Archipelagic Bill (RUU Daerah Kepulauan) is being strengthened by the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) to address systemic inequalities faced by island communities. During a hearing with the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM), the National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan), and the Indonesian Commission for Child Protection (KPAI), lawmakers emphasized the need for special regulations to overcome geographical isolation.

Key issues identified include limited access to basic services, legal protection, education, and healthcare. Specific concerns were raised regarding civil administration, such as residents lacking official marriage certificates despite religious ceremonies. Additionally, lawmakers highlighted the need to protect the living spaces of coastal communities from island privatization and the threats of abrasion, which affects regions including Riau and eastern Indonesia. The bill aims to ensure that development and maritime management do not come at the expense of the rights and environmental sustainability of local inhabitants.