The East Java DPRD Calls for Stronger Maritime Surveillance and Drug Prevention Measures

SURABAYA — Chairman of the PKS Faction of the East Java DPRD, Lilik Hendarwati, has called for a comprehensive fight against narcotics after law enforcement authorities uncovered an illicit drug trafficking operation involving 3.37 tons of narcotics in Gresik Regency.

According to Lilik, the case—described as one of the largest narcotics seizures ever recorded in East Java—should be treated as a serious warning rather than merely another criminal case.

“The discovery of 3.37 tons of narcotics in Gresik is a stark warning that East Java is facing an extremely serious threat. This is not merely an ordinary criminal case, but a real threat to the future of our nation's younger generation,” Lilik said on Thursday (02/07/2026).

Lilik commended the decisive actions taken by law enforcement agencies and the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) in intercepting the massive shipment. However, she emphasized that the successful operation also demonstrates that international drug trafficking syndicates continue to exploit maritime routes as major entry points into East Java.

“This achievement deserves appreciation, but it must also serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders. Maritime routes remain vulnerable channels exploited by international drug syndicates to smuggle illicit substances into East Java,” she stressed.

The Commission C member representing the Surabaya electoral district stated that surveillance of maritime transportation and port facilities can no longer rely on conventional approaches. She urged the government and law enforcement agencies to strengthen monitoring systems through advanced technology, enhanced intelligence capabilities, and closer inter-agency coordination.

“Maritime surveillance must be strengthened, intensified, and carried out through an integrated approach. There must be no opportunity whatsoever for drug traffickers and international syndicates to use East Java as an entry point for narcotics distribution,” she said.

Education and Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration Are Essential to Prevention

Lilik called on all segments of society to unite in combating narcotics.

According to her, the threat posed by illicit drugs cannot be addressed solely through law enforcement. Effective prevention requires active participation from local governments, educational institutions, religious leaders, community organizations, and families.

“The threat of narcotics is a threat to our children, to the future of our families, and to the quality of East Java's human resources. Therefore, no one can afford to become complacent,” she stated.

In addition to enforcement measures, Lilik underscored the importance of strengthening preventive efforts through broad-based public education and awareness campaigns. She emphasized that schools, families, and local communities must serve as the first line of defense in protecting young people from drug abuse.

“Law enforcement efforts must go hand in hand with stronger preventive measures. Public education should be expanded so that our younger generation develops strong moral resilience and does not become victims of narcotics abuse,” she explained.

Lilik concluded by reaffirming that there can be no compromise in the fight against narcotics. She expressed hope that East Java would remain at the forefront of national efforts to eradicate drug trafficking and safeguard the future of Indonesia's younger generation.

“There can be no compromise when it comes to narcotics. East Java must stand at the forefront of the fight against drug trafficking. Protecting our younger generation is a non-negotiable responsibility that we all share,” she concluded.