Indonesia holds a unique and powerful position on the global stage as the world’s largest maritime nation. This status is not just a geographical label; it reflects the country’s deep historical, cultural, economic, and environmental connection to the sea. With thousands of islands and vast marine territories, Indonesia’s identity is inseparable from its waters. The following sections explore the key reasons behind this designation and why it matters for Indonesia’s development and global influence.
- The World’s Largest Archipelago
Indonesia is known as the world’s largest archipelagic state, comprising more than 17,000 islands scattered across Southeast Asia. These islands stretch between the Asian and Australian continents and span the Pacific and Indian Oceans. This expansive geographical structure creates a natural maritime character, shaping the nation’s culture, trade, transportation, and political orientation.
Unlike continental nations, Indonesia’s landmass is highly fragmented, and most regions are accessible primarily by sea. This geographic reality underscores why the country’s identity and future are strongly tied to maritime development.
- Over 70% of Indonesia’s Territory Is Ocean
Indonesia’s vast marine domain is one of its defining strengths. Approximately 70% of Indonesia’s total territory consists of ocean, including:
Territorial seas
Archipelagic waters
Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
This immense ocean area provides Indonesia with abundant natural resources and strategic leverage. It also places the nation among the world’s largest custodians of marine ecosystems, with responsibilities and opportunities that extend far beyond its shores.
- A Hub of Global Maritime Routes
Indonesia occupies a crucial position within global shipping networks. Its location intersects major international sea lanes, especially the Strait of Malacca, Sunda Strait, and Lombok Strait, which rank among the busiest maritime corridors on Earth.
These sea lanes—known formally as Alur Laut Kepulauan Indonesia (ALKI)—serve as essential pathways for global trade, energy distribution, and naval mobility. Indonesia’s control and management of these routes reinforce its geopolitical importance and contribute significantly to regional and international maritime security.
- Exceptional Marine Biodiversity and Natural Wealth
Indonesia’s maritime environment is extraordinarily rich. As part of the Coral Triangle, Indonesia hosts some of the highest marine biodiversity on the planet, including:
Extensive coral reef systems
Diverse fish populations
Unique underwater ecosystems
Highly productive fisheries
These resources support livelihoods, tourism, food security, and scientific research. They also place Indonesia at the forefront of global conservation efforts and sustainable ocean management.
- A Strong and Enduring Maritime Identity
The sea has shaped Indonesia’s cultural heritage for centuries. From the seafaring traditions of the Bugis and Makassar people to the trading networks of the Srivijaya and Majapahit empires, Indonesia’s maritime legacy runs deep.
Today, this identity is reflected in the nation’s policies, strategic vision, and development narratives—particularly through initiatives such as the Global Maritime Fulcrum, which aims to strengthen Indonesia’s maritime infrastructure, security, governance, and economic capacity.
Indonesia’s reliance on the ocean is not only historical but also forward-looking. Its maritime potential plays a critical role in economic growth, regional influence, and sustainable development.
Conclusion
Indonesia’s recognition as the world’s largest maritime nation is rooted in its geography, marine resources, strategic position, and cultural heritage. With most of its territory composed of water and its islands spread across some of the world’s most important sea routes, Indonesia is inherently and undeniably maritime.
As the country continues to develop its maritime capabilities—economically, environmentally, and strategically—its role in global ocean governance becomes increasingly significant. Indonesia’s future, much like its past, will continue to be shaped by the sea.