Jakarta – Despite being abroad on an official state visit, President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto chaired a virtual limited cabinet meeting (ratas) from Singapore on Monday (June 17), addressing a long-standing territorial dispute over four islands claimed by both Aceh and North Sumatra.
According to the official Instagram account @presidenrepublikindonesia, the virtual meeting was attended by key government officials including the Minister of State Secretary, Minister of Home Affairs, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR), the Governor of Aceh, and the Governor of North Sumatra.
“Amidst his state visit, the President convened a virtual limited cabinet meeting with the Minister of State Secretary, Minister of Home Affairs, Deputy Speaker of the DPR, Governor of Aceh, and Governor of North Sumatra to finalize the administrative return of four islands to Aceh,” read the official statement.
During the meeting, President Prabowo ruled that the four islands—Pulau Panjang, Pulau Lipan, Pulau Mangkir Gadang, and Pulau Mangkir Ketek—are officially recognized as part of Aceh’s administrative territory.
“This decision was made based on a comprehensive report from the Ministry of Home Affairs, supported by relevant data and documentation,” the statement added.
President Prabowo expressed hope that the decision would bring a peaceful resolution to all stakeholders involved.
“May this decision provide the best possible outcome for the people of both Aceh and North Sumatra,” concluded the post on the President’s official account.
The resolution marks a significant step toward addressing regional territorial concerns through diplomatic and constitutional means, reinforcing the government’s commitment to equitable governance and regional harmony.