Indonesian President Joko Widodo·WeiduoduorecentlyAfter a public event in Jakarta, in response to recent concerns about Indonesia's possible lifting of the banThe rumor of a 20-year ban on sea sand exports has been clarified. He stated that the government has not lifted the export restrictions on sea sand, and currently only authorized the export of marine sediments, which have significant differences in nature.

This clarification has attracted widespread attention both domestically and internationally, especially for countries and companies that have long relied on Indonesian sea sand resources, it is a clear guidance on policy direction. President Joko emphasized that although marine sediments resemble sea sand in appearance, their impact on the marine ecological environment is completely different. He pointed out that the government has been committed to protecting marine ecology, maintaining safe navigation for ships, and protecting fragile coral reef systems, so it is necessary to regularly clean up sediments in the ocean.

According to the Indonesian Ministry of Trade, the export of marine sediments under this permit will strictly follow the principle of prioritizing domestic demand and complying with legal and regulatory restrictions. On the basis of meeting the domestic construction needs in Indonesia, export can only be considered if there is a surplus and it meets environmental requirements. This move not only responds to market demand but also takes into account environmental protection, demonstrating the Indonesian government's balanced consideration between resource management and economic development.

However, the decision of the Joko government was not welcomed by all parties. The environmental organization Walhi has strongly criticized this, stating that allowing the export of marine sediments is equivalent to selling national sovereignty and is irresponsible to future generations. Commissioner Parid of the organization pointed out that excessive exploitation of sea sand and sediment will lead to the shrinkage of Indonesia's land area, causing irreversible damage to the coastal ecological environment.

Since its first implementation in 2003, Indonesia's ban on sea sand exports has been a contentious topic between the country and several neighboring countries, including Singapore. The implementation of the ban is not only aimed at protecting domestic resources, but also reflects the Indonesian government's firm stance on safeguarding national sovereignty and the ecological environment. Nowadays, with the changes in the global economic situation and the deepening of regional cooperation, the Indonesian government is facing new challenges and opportunities in balancing the interests of all parties and promoting sustainable development.