Paradiplomacy Roles in Border Diplomacy.Case Study: Camar Bulan, Temajok, West Kalimantan, Indonesia

Abstract

The paradiplomacy or the subnational actors who hold diplomatic practices has important role in diplomacy, including border diplomacy. Not only has it succeeded in influencing relations between countries, but they have also been a driver of development in the border area which most of them are often underdeveloped. In the Indonesia-Malaysia border region in West Kalimantan, especially the Camar Bulan hamlet, the role of paradiplomacy is also quite significant. This area is an underdeveloped area with minimal access to roads, communications, and electricity. Unfortunately, this area has some border conflicts between Indonesia and Malaysia in Camar Bulan enclave. Through an in-depth interview method and documentation study, the research found that the subnational actors that are the local official of Regional Border Management Agency and the Paloh district officer were able to play a unique role in managing borders while attracting the attention of the central government to accelerate development in the region. It was unique because they were not always copying central government policy in maintaining territory sovereignty. The lack of information and coordination on national borders encourages subnational actors to choose their own way to solve the problem of national borders.

Technical guidance on the implementation of cooperation with overseas institutions for Takalar Regency Government staff

“…Based on this description, regulations related to regional autonomy open up opportunities for local governments to collaborate with third parties in providing public services. The third party in question is not only from within the country but also from abroad [19], [20]. Theoretically, the involvement of local governments as sub-national actors in foreign cooperation activities can be classified as paradiplomacy.…”