- Author: Muhammad Rizki
- From: Faculty of Law Universitas Gadjah Mada
Abstract:
Border regions are a paramount manifestation of state sovereignty. Border regions are also strategic and vital in terms of the Unitary Republic of Indonesia framework for promising opportunities due to geographical matters. So it is politically necessary to pay particular attention to border areas to maintain sovereignty. Indonesia, as a sovereign state, has responsibilities toward its border region. This research paper aims to study the potential and challenges of border regions, specifically in Temajuk Village which share a border with Kampong Telok Melano, Sarawak Malaysia. The research is based on legal parameters. The data collection method is mainly focused on literature resources. Additionally, the author performed field observation to obtain primary, secondary, and non-legal material. These materials were then analyzed using the qualitative method. The results of field observation showed that ineffective management of Temajuk as a border region has triggered across sector problems as well as challenges toward national security. These problems impact cross-border settlement and farming, smuggling of commercial products and services (beyond bilateral threshold), international marriage without following legal procedures, foreign influence infiltration, and undocumented residences or immigrants. Ultimately, the author highly recommends the Indonesian government should necessarily pay high attention to border region management, set action plans and take prominent steps particularly in accelerating the leading sector of border region, considering its significance in line with holistic approaches toward the livelihood of local communities.
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