Civic-led Exposure of Marine Land Permit Violations: Triggering Policy Response on Spatial Governance, Blue Economy, and Coastal Sustainability

Description of impact

This civic-driven initiative uncovered 656 hectares of Building Use Rights (HGB) issued over active coastal waters in Sidoarjo, East Java. By leveraging open-source intelligence (OSINT), digital civic mapping, and public narrative mobilization, the public halted the renewal of these permits and compelled local and national authorities—including ATR/BPN, the East Java DPRD, and DPR RI—to respond with official statements, audit plans, and regulatory reviews.

Beyond administrative violations, the case brought critical attention to the governance gaps threatening Indonesia’s blue economy and the marine and fisheries supply chain, particularly in areas where coastal communities rely on open access to nearshore waters. The intervention helped prevent ecological degradation, secure local livelihoods, and reinforce public participation in sustainable spatial planning. This case is now referenced in national policy discussions as a model of civic intelligence and multi-stakeholder governance in promoting environmental and economic resilience.

Category of impact	Public policy impacts