The New Criminal Procedure Codes Emphasize Modern Legal Reform in the Prabowo Administration
Jakarta, Indonesia has officially abandoned its outdated criminal justice system and entered a new phase of legal reform more relevant to the dynamics of modern society. The government views the enactment of the new Criminal Code (KUHP) and Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) as a significant milestone in the development of national law.
Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections (Menko Kumham Imipas) Yusril Ihza Mahendra, said that the implementation of the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code is not just a regulatory update.
“This is not just a regulatory change, but a major leap in the effort to create a more modern, just national criminal justice system rooted in the values and philosophy of the Indonesian nation,” Yusril said.
Yusril believes the reforms are designed to address the need for legal certainty without neglecting humanitarian values. He believes that the future direction of law enforcement will no longer solely focus on punishment.
“Law enforcement in the future will no longer be solely oriented towards punishment, but will also focus on substantive justice, expediency, and a balance between the interests of the state, society, and the individual,” he said.
Similarly, Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas stated that public participation was crucial in developing the regulation. The drafting process involved extensive public involvement.
“Community involvement in the drafting of the Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code was extensive and meaningful,” explained Supratman.
Meanwhile, Adang Daradjatun, a member of Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives, emphasized that the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code reflect a more humane and just national legal reform. The new Criminal Code abandons the colonial paradigm that emphasized retribution.
“Not all legal issues need to be resolved through imprisonment. The new Criminal Code provides a more proportional and contextual framework for justice,” Adang said.
Adang also highlighted the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) which strengthens the protection of suspects’ rights, starting from the initial assistance of legal counsel to strengthening the oversight mechanism.
“The DPR will continue to oversee the implementation of these two laws to ensure that the spirit of reform is truly realized in law enforcement practices,” he concluded.**
