<![CDATA[In principle, a Special Terminal (Terminal Khusus, Tersus) is established to support the business activities of its owner and is not intended to serve the public interest. In practice, however, limitations in the capacity and facilities of public ports have resulted in Tersus facilities frequently being used for the loading and unloading of goods belonging to other parties through an authorization mechanism. This study aims to analyze the legal framework governing the use of Tersus facilities by other parties, the practical needs underlying such use, and the authorization mechanism and authority of the Harbormaster and Port Authority Office (Kantor Kesyahbandaran dan Otoritas Pelabuhan, KSOP) in granting approval. This study employs normative legal research using statutory and legal-theoretical approaches, drawing on legal positivism, the theory of authority, administrative law theory, and the theory of legal certainty. The findings demonstrate that Law Number 17 of 2008, Government Regulation Number 61 of 2009, and Minister of Transportation Regulation Number PM 52 of 2021 provide a legal basis for the use of Tersus facilities by other parties but do not comprehensively regulate the parameters, procedures, and criteria for granting authorization. This regulatory gap leaves considerable scope for administrative discretion by the KSOP, potentially creating legal uncertainty and disparities in policy implementation. Accordingly, regulatory harmonization, clearer technical guidelines, and simplified authorization mechanisms are required to enhance legal certainty and the effectiveness of public services and to support the efficient operation of national logistics.]]>
