On the establishment and implementation of GPS CORS for cadastral surveying and mapping in Indonesia

Since 2009, the latest satellite based positioning system in the form of global positioning system (GPS) continuously operating reference station (CORS) has been tested to support cadastral surveying and mapping in Indonesia, specifically in Java and Bali islands. The main aim of this GPS CORS implementation is to speed up the land registration process in Indonesia. Currently about 55% of land parcels are still to be certificated (e.g. about 48 million parcels), and about 90% of the area are still to be mapped for cadastral purposes (e.g. about 83 million ha). At present in 2013, there are 183 GPS CORS stations have been established for this purpose by the National Land Agency of Indonesia (BPN). In establishing, operating and maintaining a good and reliable GPS CORS network that can serve cadastral surveying and mapping all over Indonesia, there are several challenges and constraints that have to be properly taken into consideration mainly related to: integration of several existing GPS CORS networks in Indonesia; expanding the coverage of GPS CORS to cover a vast region of Indonesia; availability and reliability of the communication link system; establishment of reliable GPS CORS data processing and management at BPN and district land offices; spatial and temporal variations in achievable accuracy of GPS CORS derived coordinates; insufficient number of dedicated and professional GPS CORS surveyors at BPN and all district land offices; and local social and political challenges. These challenges and constraints have to be effectively overcome to have meaningful implementation of GPS CORS in supporting cadastral surveying and mapping in Indonesia. This GPS CORS network will also serve other non cadastral applications in Indonesia.