No, magnet fishing in Indonesia operates in a legal gray zone, with activities potentially violating antiquities protection laws and local ordinances. While not explicitly banned nationwide, unauthorized retrieval of historical artifacts risks prosecution under Law No. 11/2010 on Cultural Heritage Preservation, enforced by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek). Local governments may impose additional restrictions, particularly near rivers or coastal areas designated as cultural heritage sites.
Key Regulations for Magnet Fishing in Indonesia
- Cultural Heritage Protection: Under Law No. 11/2010, removing artifacts from rivers, lakes, or seabeds without permits constitutes theft of cultural property, punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and fines up to IDR 1 billion. Kemendikbudristek’s 2024 circular explicitly warns against magnet fishing in designated heritage zones.
- Local Government Ordinances: Provincial and municipal regulations (e.g., Jakarta’s Perda No. 8/2019 on river management) prohibit unauthorized excavation or retrieval of objects from water bodies. Violations may trigger administrative sanctions or criminal charges.
- Environmental and Navigation Laws: Activities obstructing waterways or disturbing ecosystems could violate Law No. 32/2009 on Environmental Protection and Law No. 17/2008 on Shipping, with enforcement by the Ministry of Transportation or local port authorities.
Prospective practitioners must secure permits from Kemendikbudristek for cultural artifacts and coordinate with local environmental agencies. Failure to comply risks severe penalties, including asset forfeiture and imprisonment.