Indonesian Navy Tightens Security of Islands on Indonesian Borders

TEMPO Interactive, Surabaya, East Java:Following the verdict in the Sipadan-Ligitan islands case, the Indonesian Navy has tightened the security of islands on the nations borders, particularly several islands that are likely to cause conflict between Indonesia and neighboring countries. We will try to make sure that our ships call on these little islands, Navy East Indonesian Region Fleet Rear Adm. Wayan Rampih Argawa told Tempo News Room in his office in Surabaya on Tuesday (28/01). According to Argawa, the Navy, particularly the East Indonesian Region Fleet, is focusing on securing Miangas island in the north of Sulawesi province, Mafia island in the north of Papua province, Batek island on the borders of East Timor and Indonesia and several islands in East Kalimantan on the borders of Malaysia and Indonesia. The important thing is that we dont let these islands become empty. We have to send people to inhabit them. Therefore the local government, such as in East Nusa Tenggara, should make efforts so that there are people inhabiting Batek Island. Fortunately, all these islands are already inhabited now, said Argawa. Aside than carrying out a patrol every three to five days, Argawa has also ordered the navy warships to stopover on the little islands. If were nearby the islands, we will stop there. Probably searching for coconuts or fruit on the islands, he said. (Adi Mawardi-Tempo News Room)