BATAMCLICK.COM: President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, has made a long-awaited decision concerning the fate of four islands caught in administrative dispute. Panjang Island, Lipan Island, Mangkir Gadang Island, and Mangkir Ketek Island are now officially recognized as part of Aceh Province.
This announcement was made by State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi following a limited cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday (June 17). The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian, Deputy Speaker of the House Sufmi Dasco, Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf, and North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution.
“The President has decided, based on official government documents, that these four islands fall under the administrative jurisdiction of Aceh,” said Prasetyo.
The meeting, chaired directly by President Prabowo via video conference, aimed to resolve tensions that arose after the issuance of Ministerial Decree No. 300.2.2-2138 of 2025. The decree had previously classified the islands as part of Central Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra, sparking objections from Aceh’s local government and residents who claimed the islands historically belonged to Aceh Singkil Regency.
To address the issue, the State Secretariat facilitated a dialogue between the two provincial leaders. After reviewing the Ministry of Home Affairs’ reports and supporting documentation, the President officially acknowledged the islands as part of Aceh’s territory.
This decision not only resolves an administrative dilemma but also affirms the identity and unity of the local communities. The people of Aceh welcomed the ruling with deep gratitude and renewed hope that every corner of their homeland is fully recognized within the Republic of Indonesia.***
