Maritime Surveillance of Indonesian Waters by the Indonesian Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla RI): A National Law Perspective

Indonesia as an archipelagic state has extensive maritime waters that require effective security and surveillance to protect sovereignty and enforce maritime law. The Indonesian Maritime Security Agency (Badan Keamanan Laut Republik Indonesia/Bakamla RI) was established to strengthen maritime governance and overcome overlapping authority among maritime law enforcement agencies. This research examines the legal basis, authority, and implementation of maritime surveillance conducted by Bakamla RI from the perspective of national law. This study employs normative legal research using statutory and conceptual approaches. The results indicate that Bakamla RI holds a strategic role in maritime security; however, regulatory fragmentation and institutional coordination challenges still limit its effectiveness. Strengthening the legal framework and inter-agency synergy is essential to optimize maritime surveillance in Indonesian waters.