"We really need a synergy. We have to work together because if we synergize, the broad maritime issues can all be covered," Ali stated during a meeting with Commission I of the House of Representatives (DPR) at the parliamentary complex here on Monday.
Ali identified a persistent "sectoral ego" or non-cooperative outlook among agencies related to maritime affairs.
However, he ensured that the Indonesian Navy has been working to mitigate this through holding meetings at Navy bases.
Ali cited aging naval vessels and fuel shortages as operational constraints that hinder the Indonesian Navy's ability to conduct nationwide maritime patrols.
Over the past five years, the Navy has handled several categories of violations in the maritime sector, spanning shipping, forestry, smuggling of illegal drugs and banned goods, oil and gas, immigration, customs, and illegal mining.
Related news: Indonesian navy foils attempt to smuggle meth from Tawau to Nunukan
"Almost every week, we successfully intercept smuggling involving drugs, baby lobsters, and garments. There are then immigration issues, particularly involving illegal migrants, especially on the Indonesia-Malaysia and Indonesia-Singapore borders," he explained.
In general, violations related to shipping, forestry, and customs tend to show a decrease in trend, he noted.
Meanwhile, violations related to fishing, illegal drugs, oil and gas, customs, and mining show an increasing trend.
The Navy acts as an investigator in fishing and shipping violation cases. Violations in other categories are referred to investigators from other relevant civil service agencies.
"We always cooperate with each other. We strive to work together," Ali said.
Related news: Navy foils attempt to smuggle workers, foreigners into Malaysia
Translator: Bagus, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
