A Legal Analysis of the Digitization of the Issuance of Sailing Permits from the Perspective of Maritime Safety and Security

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to analyze the legal framework, implementation, constraints, and efforts to develop a digital-based system for issuing Surat Persetujuan Berlayar (SPB) at the Batam Special Kantor Kesyahbandaran dan Otoritas Pelabuhan (KSOP) to enhance maritime safety and security. Research Methodology: This study employs a normative legal approach supported by a socio-legal perspective using statutory, conceptual, and sociological approaches. Primary data were obtained from purposively selected KSOP officials and staff interviews, supported by secondary data from regulations and relevant literature. Data were analyzed qualitatively through legal interpretation and deductive reasoning. Results: The findings show that the digital SPB legal framework is based on a hierarchical structure, including the 1945 Constitution, Law No. 66 of 2024 on Shipping, the Government Administration Law, the ITE Law, and Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2018 on Sistem Pemerintahan Berbasis Elektronik (SPBE). SPB remains an Administrative Decision despite electronic issuance. The Inaportnet system improves service efficiency and document verification. Conclusions: Strengthening the digital SPB system requires technical regulations, institutional and human resource development, maritime data integration, and cybersecurity improvements while maintaining the harbor master’s substantive role in maritime safety supervision. Limitations: This study focuses only on the Batam Special KSOP; therefore, generalization to other ports should be considered carefully. Contributions: This study contributes to public administration and maritime law literature by examining the digitalization of administrative decisions and providing policy insights for maritime stakeholders.