Rising Tension in Natuna; Mahfud MD: We Are Not at War with China
Translator
Dewi Elvia Muthiariny
Editor
Petir Garda Bhwana
Senin, 6 Januari 2020 12:58 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Mahfud MD asserted that Indonesia is not in conflict with China aside from the rising tension in North Natuna waters. Hence, he said that Indonesia is not making war with China.
“We are not at war, we are defending our sovereignty,” said Mahfud at his office, on Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat, Central Jakarta, Monday, January 6.
Mahfud underlined other bilateral activities outside the territorial waters issue between Indonesia and China were still ongoing. “Affairs related trade, economic, cultural ties or others still resume as usual.”
At present, the Indonesian government is sending more security personnel in the waters after several China’s coast guard vessels and fishing boats trespassed and claimed the area.
Since the beginning of the administration, Mahfud added, Jokowi had stressed the importance of keeping Indonesian sovereignty in the country’s rich marine resources. In addition, Jokowi also instructed to increase the fishers’ activity in the waters.
Earlier today, Mahfud MD announced the government planned to send 120 fishers from the Java’s north coast area (Pantura) to sail in Natuna waters under the state protection.
EGI ADYATAMA
