Indonesia develops spatial planning for strategic border regions

The Indonesian National Border Management Agency (BNPP) is coordinating with various ministries to develop spatial planning and infrastructure in strategic border regions.

In North Sulawesi, the BNPP and the Ministry of ATR/BPN are discussing the Detailed Spatial Plan (RDTR) for the Miangas and Marampit areas in the Talaud Islands Regency. This initiative aims to synchronize spatial planning with the characteristics of outermost small islands, focusing on economic development, national defense, security, and infrastructure. Miangas, which faces the Philippines, is designated as a primary service center, while Karatung will serve as a buffer service center. The plan seeks to address logistical challenges and manage the cross-border social and economic ties with Mindanao.

In West Kalimantan, the government is also focusing on the Entikong and Sekayam areas in the Sanggau Regency. Entikong is designated as a main service center, while Sekayam will act as a buffer. Development in these regions will integrate infrastructure, spatial planning, and community empowerment, with a focus on local economy, services, agro-industry, and food security. The strategy emphasizes that border development should extend beyond Integrated Border Posts (PLBN) to include surrounding supporting areas to optimize local economic potential.