Singaporean Coastal Line Increases by 12 Kilometers
Monday, 19 February, 2007 | 11:59 WIB

TEMPO Interactive, Jakarta: Reclamation in Singapore has resulted in the country's coastline increasing by an additional 12 kilometers.

There is concern that this increasing size of the country’s land will annex Indonesian waters.

“Half of the area of Indonesian islands has also been reduced,” said Commander of West Fleet Group of Indonesian Navy First Admiral Denny Novendi last night (02/18).

The issue is becoming complicated for both countries are yet to agree with their coastlines.

Singapore wants to discuss the coastlines after the reclamation project is finished.

In fact, “the line should be measured accurately first, then it can be reclaimed. Should it have been measured, it would be up to Singapore to reclaim the coast on its will,” said Denny.

The Singaporean coastline, which directly faces Batam Island, was expanded with sand from the Riau Islands.

“Sebaik Island, for example, has lost some of its area because its sand was exploited and sold to Singapore,” he said.

Despite Singapore's extending its land, Indonesia still applies the old coastlines.

“We are referring to the Republic of Indonesia's coastlines, with regard to the old existing lines,” said Junior Admiral Muhammad Sunarto, spokesperson for the Indonesian Military Headquarters, yesterday (02/18).

RUMBADI DALLE | RADEN RACHMADI