Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's border agency chief, Gen. Maruli Simanjuntak, inspected Sebatik Island on Wednesday to identify problems along the Indonesia-Malaysia border, including unresolved boundary issues and delays in opening a border post.
The inspection focused on clarifying the countries' border demarcation and accelerating the opening of the Sebatik State Border Post (PLBN).
During the visit, Maruli toured the Aji Kuning border security post, Indonesia-Malaysia boundary markers, the Sebatik border post, a seaport, and Sei Pancang pier, according to a statement issued on Thursday.
He also inspected areas affected by outstanding boundary problems.
Maruli said an on-site assessment was necessary to identify challenges in border areas. He added that the National Agency for Border Management and Remote Areas (BNPPDT) was also mandated to oversee development in remote areas and improve residents' welfare.
"The president has directed the agency to help improve the welfare of communities in surrounding areas," Maruli said.
He said territorial defense was closely linked to residents' welfare, adding that government support for border communities was essential to strengthening their national identity and patriotism.
"Territorial defense and public welfare are clearly interconnected. Government attention to residents' needs can strengthen their sense of nationalism," he said.
The Sebatik inspection was part of Maruli's working visits to several Indonesian border regions.
He had previously visited Miangas, Rote Island, and Krayan, with trips to Laut Island and Sabang planned for the future.
Maruli said his preliminary findings included several problems that could be resolved through government coordination, with efforts potentially beginning in early 2027.
"I am pleased to see that many of these problems can actually be resolved. Hopefully, we can begin addressing them early next year," he said.