Indonesia to establish formal coast guard

ANKARA

Indonesia is planning to establish its coast guard to bolster maritime border security and prevent smuggling and illicit activities, the country's chief security minister said Wednesday.

"The president has issued a directive for the future establishment of the Indonesia Coast Guard," local daily Jakarta Globe quoted Mohamad Mahfud as saying.

Currently, these responsibilities fall under the purview of the Indonesia Maritime Security Agency.

The coast guard will be a new entity responsible for enhancing maritime security, ensuring maritime safety, and enforcing the law within Indonesian waters.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid