Political and Ideological Vulnerabilities in Indonesia's Border with Timor-Leste to Support State Resilience and Security: A Study on Belu and Malaka Regencies

Border areas are important to discuss, considering their location affects state sovereignty. This research aims to analyze political and ideological vulnerabilities in Belu and Malaka Regencies, which are important areas along the eastern sector of the Indonesia-Timor Leste land border. An analysis of political and ideological vulnerabilities in the region is used in formulating strategies to strengthen the country's resilience and security. This research is survey research with data collection using questionnaires, in-depth interviews and observations with 204 respondents, and integrating academic literature and ArcGIS spatial analysis. Existing findings indicate that Belu and Malaka districts have low political and ideological vulnerability, as evidenced by increased political awareness and strong resistance to ideological attacks, highlighting the importance of government involvement in ensuring territorial integrity through increased bilateral communications and cooperation with Timor- Leste. The research results recommend increasing political awareness through education, encouraging bilateral dialogue, involving local communities in governance processes, fostering intercultural tolerance, improving infrastructure and economic frameworks, and establishing rapid threat response mechanisms. These suggestions aim to strengthen the country's resilience and border security, while facilitating peaceful and long-term bilateral relations. © 2024 The authors.