JAKARTA — The Indonesian government has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the law firmly and transparently, in line with the demands expressed by the public during demonstrations in various cities. The Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections (Menko Kumhamimipas), Yusril Ihza Mahendra, stated that the government will never ignore the people’s aspirations and is determined to respond positively to every demand.
“It is impossible for the government to ignore these demands,” he said.
He added that, as a government mandated by the people, they will act to ensure that law enforcement is carried out fairly and respects human rights. He also emphasized that those suspected of violating the law will still have their human rights protected in accordance with applicable legal provisions.
The government, Yusril continued, is also committed to maintaining a balance between the people’s right to express their aspirations and the state’s obligation to prosecute violations of the law. President Prabowo Subianto, according to Yusril, has asked law enforcement officials to take firm action against perpetrators of violations, but also reminded them that the people’s right to express their opinions must be respected, as long as it is carried out in an orderly manner and without violence.
“The investigation of those suspected of violating the law must be carried out in accordance with applicable procedural law. If these principles are violated, the law enforcement officials concerned will be subject to firm legal action,” Yusril added.
Furthermore, the government is also focusing on evaluating policies related to the economic and employment sectors, including those related to natural resource management involving indigenous communities and environmental protection. This includes addressing cases such as sea reclamation activities and environmental destruction in various regions, including Tangerang and Raja Ampat.
Responding to other demands of the 17+8 movement, Yusril stated that the government also pays attention to the rights of indigenous communities and ensures that policies related to economic development do not harm the people, including an evaluation of the Job Creation Law.
On a separate occasion, Minister of Human Rights, Natalius Pigai, stated that the revision of the Human Rights Law currently being discussed also aims to strengthen the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM). This includes increasing the authority of the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) so that its recommendations are binding and accompanied by sanctions for those who fail to act on them. This revision also includes strengthening other institutions such as the National Commission on Children, the National Commission on Violence Against Women, and the National Commission on Disabilities.
With this clear and concrete commitment, the government demonstrates its determination to ensure that law enforcement in Indonesia is not only carried out firmly, but also prioritizes justice, transparency, and respect for the basic rights of every citizen. The government strives to ensure that every policy and action taken will always side with the people, bring social justice, and realize prosperity for all Indonesians.—
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