The recent developments in the South China Sea have raised concerns and drawn international attention. The primary issue at hand is the Chinese fishing fleets that have reportedly been infringing upon the waters of the South China Sea, an area internationally recognized as exclusively Indonesia’s fishing grounds. This situation has particularly incited worries among Indonesian fishermen in the Natuna Islands.
The Destructive Effects of Chinese Fishing Practices
Chinese steel trawlers are notoriously harmful to the marine environment. These vessels scrape the sea bed causing damage to other marine life forms in their pursuit of fish. Simultaneously, these actions transgress the maritime borders that have been set in place for the protection and conservation of the ecosystem and nations’ territorial rights.
Indonesia’s Dilemma
One notable aspect of this situation is Indonesia’s seeming passivity in addressing these transgressions. Although blatant incursions by Chinese fishing boats are occurring, the Indonesian government has yet to take decisive action. Many speculate that this hesitation is due to China being Indonesia’s largest trading partner.
Global Consequences of the Incursions
China’s illegal fishing activities around the Natuna Islands have far-reaching implications. It serves as a reminder to other regional governments about China’s ambitious territorial claims over the South China Sea, a critical waterway for global trade.
Understanding China’s Maritime Claims
China has been asserting its claim over the resources in the South China Sea, including oil, natural gas, and fish. The presence of Chinese fishers in the area serves as a physical manifestation of these maritime claims. However, the nine-dash line used by China to demarcate these claims has been rejected by an international tribunal as it infringes upon the principle of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ).
The South China Sea: A Geographical Overview
The South China Sea, an extension of the western Pacific Ocean, is strategically located in Southeast Asia. It is surrounded by multiple countries and territories including the People’s Republic of China, the Republic of China (Taiwan), the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, and Vietnam. Connected to the East China Sea through the Taiwan Strait and to the Philippine Sea through the Luzon Strait, this sea contains numerous shoals, reefs, atolls, and islands.
Strategic Importance of the South China Sea
The South China Sea’s strategic importance is undeniable. It acts as a significant link between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Data from the United Nations Conference on Trade And Development (UNCTAD) indicates that one-third of global shipping passes through it, bearing trillions’ worth of trade.
This body of water also houses a considerable proportion of the world’s marine biodiversity and provides fisheries that are vital for maintaining food security in Southeast Asian nations. Moreover, the seabed of the South China Sea is thought to hold massive reserves of oil and gas.
