INDONESIA – CHINA RELATIONS IN THE NATUNA SEA DISPUTE RESOLUTION: STRUGGLE FOR SOVEREIGNTY

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the process of resolving the Natuna sea dispute between Indonesia and China to obtain their respective sovereignty. The Natuna Sea is one of the outermost waters in Indonesia, which is unilaterally claimed by China at the South China Sea (indicated with dash lines on Figure 1). This claim overlaps with Indonesia's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Natuna Sea. As a result of this claim, many Chinese fishermen are free to go in and out of catching fish in Natuna Waters with illegal fishing status. The method used in this research was qualitative and descriptive research. The data collection technique was based on a literature study and was strengthened by interviewees. The study results show that this dispute resolution process is carried out through two approaches, namely the international law approach and the diplomatic approach. Because through these two approach strategies, this dispute resolution can be accomplished very comprehensively. The legal approach was taken by submitting a Diplomatic Protest Note to China. Also, the diplomatic approach was taken by Indonesia and other ASEAN countries within the ASEAN Way framework.