Jakarta – The government continues to demonstrate its commitment to strengthening a just national criminal justice system that upholds human rights principles. In the context of criminal law reform in Indonesia, the Draft Criminal Procedure Code Bill (RUU KUHAP) is being developed with caution and a spirit of legal reform.
Prof. Abdul Chair Ramadhan, Chairperson of the Indonesian Association of Postgraduate Law Doctors (PEDPHI), emphasized the importance of the RUU KUHAP in optimizing the integrated criminal justice system.
“Procedural justice and substantive justice must be realized at every stage of the legal process as the main pillars of legal certainty. This bill is expected to guide the application of criminal law in a more measured and controlled manner,” said Prof. Abdul Chair.
The RUU KUHAP also provides legal certainty regarding procedures that have previously caused multiple interpretations. Furthermore, a clearer and more accountable complaint mechanism is designed within the bill to ensure that every alleged violation can be handled professionally and independently.
Prof. Romli Atmasasmita, a Professor at Padjadjaran University, stated that the reform of the Criminal Procedure Code should accommodate the developments of modern criminal law paradigms that balance law enforcement interests with human rights protection.
“It is crucial for legislators to carefully review the RUU KUHAP to ensure it does not become a regressive legal product. The House of Representatives (DPR RI) also needs to strengthen judicial oversight mechanisms for wiretapping and detention, clarify guarantees of early access to legal assistance, and harmonize with international human rights standards,” Prof. Romli asserted.
The government believes that the reform of criminal procedure law through the RUU KUHAP will lead Indonesia towards a more advanced, fair, and balanced legal system. Protection of defenders is an integral part of the effort to create substantive justice that is not merely oriented toward punishment but also toward restoring the rights of all parties involved in the legal process. Therefore, the drafting of the RUU KUHAP involves various stakeholders, including advocacy organizations, academics, and civil society.
The government continues to carefully oversee the discussion process of the RUU KUHAP to ensure every article drafted truly reflects democratic values and guarantees equal legal protection for all citizens. The government hopes that with the eventual enactment of the RUU KUHAP, Indonesia’s legal system will become more responsive, transparent, and justice-oriented for all.*
