Government Strengthens Protection of Customary Land Rights for Indigenous Peoples
The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating the registration of customary lands throughout Indonesia. This step is taken as a concrete effort by the government to provide legal certainty and protect the rights of indigenous peoples over the land they have managed for generations.
This customary land registration program aims to prevent agrarian conflicts that often involve indigenous communities and external parties. With official certificates, the boundaries of customary territories will be clearly recorded in the national land administration system, giving the rights of indigenous peoples stronger legal standing.
In addition to providing legal protection, this registration is also expected to make it easier for indigenous peoples to manage natural resources in their territories sustainably. The government ensures that the registration process continues to respect the cultural values and local wisdom prevailing in each indigenous community.
As part of the implementation of this program, ATR/BPN will collaborate with local governments and local customary leaders to conduct data verification in the field. This cooperation is crucial to ensure that the data collection process is transparent and accurately targeted toward communities that truly require protection.
Looking ahead, the government aims to have an increasing number of customary territories officially registered. This step is expected to create social justice for all Indonesian people, especially for those who live in customary territories and preserve environmental sustainability.