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  • Law dean backs National Police remaining under President’s authority

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    Banjarmasin. — A law dean in South Kalimantan has voiced support for keeping the National Police (Polri) directly under the President, amid renewed debate over proposals to place the institution under a ministry.

    Dr. Afif Khalid, dean of the Faculty of Law at Universitas Islam Kalimantan Muhammad Arsyad Al Banjari (UNISKA MAB) in Banjarmasin, said law enforcement agencies should remain accountable to the President to ensure institutional independence and clear lines of responsibility.

    “In principle, law enforcement bodies should report directly to the President, as is the case with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the Attorney General’s Office,” Afif said on Tuesday. “This arrangement allows for direct accountability without bureaucratic interference.”

    He warned that placing the police under a ministry could open the door to political intervention.

    “If the police were subordinated to a ministry, there is a risk of institutional interference. We strongly support Polri remaining under the President,” he said, while stressing the need for greater professionalism and transparency in law enforcement.

    “We hope that going forward the police will become more professional and transparent in enforcing the law,” Afif added.

    Afif also expressed support for National Police chief Gen. Listyo Sigit Prabowo, who recently rejected the idea of placing Polri under a ministry during a working meeting with House of Representatives Commission III at the парламент complex in Central Jakarta on Jan. 26.

    According to Afif, Law No. 2/2002 on the National Police substantively positions Polri as an independent state institution responsible directly to the President.

    “It would be inappropriate to place Polri under a ministry. The Police Chief’s statement is in line with good governance principles,” he said.

    The debate over Polri’s institutional placement has resurfaced in recent weeks, with some arguing that placing the force under a ministry could improve administrative efficiency and coordination. However, others maintain that the current structure is part of the post-Reformasi security sector design.

    A similar view was expressed by Regional Representatives Council (DPD) member Muhammad Hidayattollah, also known as Dayat El, who said Polri’s position under the President was constitutionally grounded.

    “A direct chain of command from the President is essential to maintain clarity in control and to ensure national security stability,” Dayat said in a statement on Tuesday.

    The senator argued that Polri’s role was not merely technical but strategic, involving the maintenance of public order and law enforcement at the national level. For that reason, urgent decisions required a streamlined bureaucratic process without additional ministerial layers.

    He dismissed concerns that placing Polri under the President weakened oversight mechanisms, saying checks and balances remained intact through parliamentary supervision and public participation.

    “The main issue is not where Polri is structurally placed, but how the institution is encouraged to become professional, modern and humane,” Dayat said, adding that public trust should be the key benchmark in institutional reform.

    He urged that discussions on Polri’s status should not be driven by short-term political considerations but by long-term national interests.

    As a member of the DPD overseeing political, legal and security affairs, Dayat said he would continue to monitor efforts to strengthen state institutions to safeguard the integrity of the unitary state

  • Agusrin Najamudin, Former Bengkulu Governor Now a Fugitive — A Case of Ordinary Fraud or a Political Pandora’s Box?

    Agusrin Najamudin, Former Bengkulu Governor Now a Fugitive — A Case of Ordinary Fraud or a Political Pandora’s Box?

    IndonesianTalk.com — Agusrin Najamudin, Former Bengkulu Governor Now a Fugitive — A Case of Ordinary Fraud or a Political Pandora’s Box?

    There are names in Jakarta’s political orbit that never fully disappear—names that rarely surface publicly yet remain persistent in private conversations, whispers, and coded exchanges. One of them is Agusrin M. Najamudin.

    The former governor of Bengkulu is now officially a fugitive. But long before his photo appeared on the wanted list of the Jakarta Metropolitan Police, Agusrin’s name traveled through political corridors as rumor, leverage, and silent influence.

    In Indonesian politics—where decisions are often shaped behind closed doors rather than in plenary halls—Agusrin’s presence has been less visible but never absent.

    A former senior official, speaking anonymously, summed it up bluntly:

    “He’s not a player. He’s the remote control.”

    A Shadow Operator

    Agusrin’s name resurfaced following a June 2025 investigation published by MATRA magazine. The report refers to a mysterious figure with the initials “AGS”, described not as a whistleblower nor a blackmailer—but as someone who collects information, archives it, and never releases it unless necessary.

    One confidential source quoted in the report used a phrase common in covert political operations:

    “Secrets are meant to break inside the stomach—not the mouth.”

    Rumors, speculation, and unverified claims have even linked Agusrin to foreign intelligence networks—including the CIA—relations he has repeatedly denied. Yet, in Indonesian politics, denials sometimes deepen myth rather than dispel it.

    A Hidden Hand Behind the Constitutional Court?

    The MATRA report goes further, insinuating Agusrin’s involvement in one of the most controversial legal and political maneuvers in recent memory: the Constitutional Court ruling that paved the way for Gibran Rakabuming Raka, President Joko Widodo’s son, to run for vice president despite age restrictions.

    The public assumed the operation was steered by State Secretary Pratikno.

    But two political insiders quoted by the magazine claimed otherwise:

    “The person who coordinated cross-institution communication was not Pratikno. It was Agusrin.”

    The alleged strategy operated on two parallel fronts:

    Formal: legal arguments, academic documents, procedural justification.

    Informal: political negotiation, judicial lobbying, and back-channel persuasion.

    One senior party figure described the method starkly:

    “He didn’t bring legal arguments. He brought consequences.”

    If accurate, these claims suggest Agusrin isn’t merely a facilitator—but a conductor of one of the decade’s defining power plays.

    A Small Case — or the Door to Something Larger?

    On October 14, 2025, Jakarta Police officially declared Agusrin a wanted fugitive.

    The case appears mundane: a business dispute involving timber permits.

    Records show that in 2017, PT TAC worked with PT API—allegedly linked to Agusrin—involving the use of industrial forest concessions (HPH). The deal evolved into a new company, PT Citra Karya Inspirasi (CKI).

    In 2019, Agusrin allegedly offered the permit rights for Rp 33.3 billion. A partial payment of Rp 7.2 billion was made, with the remainder promised in two checks worth Rp 10.5 billion and Rp 20 billion. Both bounced.

    PT TAC filed a report for fraud, embezzlement, and suspected money laundering.

    A police investigator familiar with the case delivered a short but telling line:

    “The file was complete. The suspect disappeared.”

    Why Now?

    Political analysts and insiders are divided.

    Some believe it is a straightforward legal process finally moving forward.

    But others suggest timing is everything.

    One analyst told: “People like him do not fall because of small cases. Small cases are merely keys to larger rooms.”

    Another question quietly circulates among political strategists:

    Is this law enforcement — or housekeeping?

    As Indonesia enters a new post-election power alignment, many brokers, intermediaries, and informal operators have reportedly seen their influence shrink. Some are sidelined. Others, neutralized.

    Agusrin may be one of them.

    A Story Still Unfolding

    As with most narratives involving covert influence and political engineering, there are always two versions:

    The official version: legal charges, documents, procedures.

    The unofficial version: power struggles, hidden agendas, and unresolved political debts.

    Now, a man long known for operating in shadows is forced into the public eye—not as a strategist, but as a fugitive.

    There is an old saying in political intelligence:

    “Those who work too long behind the curtain eventually must step onto the stage.”

    Whether this is justice, retaliation, or political reset remains unclear.

    For now, one question lingers in Jakarta’s corridors of power:

    Is Agusrin Najamudin merely a businessman facing legal trouble—
    or the opening chapter of a much larger Pandora’s box?

    The answer, it seems, is yet to come.

  • Orchestrating Humanitarian Diplomacy on the Global Stage

    Orchestrating Humanitarian Diplomacy on the Global Stage

    Indonesiantalk.com — Orchestrating Humanitarian Diplomacy on the Global Stage

    The strike of a gavel at the United Nations headquarters in Geneva earlier this January did more than conclude a ceremonial procedure. It marked a moment of global recognition of Indonesia’s growing role in the struggle for human rights and justice.

    For the first time since the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) was established, Indonesia has been formally entrusted with the presidency of the Council — a remarkable development unfolding amid a world marked by geopolitical turbulence and moral uncertainty.

    The appointment sends a clear message from Geneva to Jakarta: in the complex arena of international politics and law, Indonesia is no longer merely a participant, but an emerging conductor in the orchestra of global moral leadership.

    The election of Ambassador Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro as President of the UN Human Rights Council for 2026 was far from accidental.

    It represents the culmination of what might be described as President Prabowo Subianto’s “precision diplomacy” — a carefully calibrated foreign policy that blends firmness with inclusivity.

    Since assuming office, President Prabowo has consistently articulated proposals for global peace through a diplomatic style that is assertive yet accommodating.

    National interests are framed not in narrow terms, but within a broader humanitarian vision that resonates beyond borders.

    An Eastern Touch

    Today’s international system resembles a dense jungle of competing narratives and double standards. Major powers often invoke sovereignty selectively, defending it when convenient and overlooking injustice elsewhere.

    Indonesia, under Prabowo’s leadership, has chosen a different posture. As a leader shaped by Eastern political sensibilities, Prabowo understands that prestige — moral as much as material — remains the most valuable currency in international relations.

    Indonesia’s overwhelming support in the UNHRC election, securing 186 votes out of 192 member states, followed by its acclamation by the Asia-Pacific Group in December 2025, illustrates the effectiveness of this diplomatic approach.

    It is a reminder that quiet persistence, trust-building and moral consistency can still yield tangible results.

    Jakarta has succeeded in convincing the world that Indonesia is a stable, democratic nation committed to the rule of law — without positioning itself as a follower of either Western or Eastern power blocs.

    A Confident Indonesia

    This achievement recalls the thinking of the late Benedict Anderson, the renowned Cornell University scholar who devoted much of his life to studying Indonesia.

    In Imagined Communities, Anderson explored how national identities are constructed through shared narratives and historical experience.

    Were Anderson alive today, he might argue that Indonesia is forging a new identity: that of a moral leader of the Global South. Indonesia’s diplomatic narrative remains rooted in its own history — a nation born out of resistance to colonial oppression.

    In Geneva, Indonesia does not speak about human rights with the didactic tone often associated with Western liberalism. Instead, it speaks the language of solidarity, informed by the lived experience of colonization.

    This approach offers an implicit critique of the double standards that continue to undermine global justice.

    The Moral Heart

    The UN Human Rights Council is often described as the moral heart of the international system. Yet that heart is currently suffering from arrhythmia.

    The shift from a rule-based international order toward a more transactional one has weakened collective responses to humanitarian crises.

    The paralysis caused by veto politics in the UN Security Council has repeatedly stalled meaningful intervention, most visibly in the ongoing tragedy in Palestine. It is in this context that Indonesia’s presidency becomes particularly significant.

    As president of the UNHRC, Indonesia now holds the gavel that shapes global agendas. Its voice on Palestine, the protection of migrant workers and the right to health will carry greater weight.

    President Prabowo has made clear that human rights are not merely domestic obligations, but erga omnes principles — duties owed to all humanity, without exception.

    Digital Authoritarianism and Climate Crisis

    The most pressing challenges today are no longer limited to traditional human rights violations. Emerging threats include digital authoritarianism driven by artificial intelligence, and the climate crisis, which acts as a threat multiplier for basic human rights.

    As an archipelagic nation highly vulnerable to climate change, Indonesia is uniquely positioned to champion ecological justice within the Human Rights Council.

    It possesses the moral standing to call on industrialized nations in the Global North to acknowledge and repair the environmental damage that disproportionately affects societies in the Global South.

    This moment also offers an opportunity to advance new international legal frameworks governing the conduct of major technology corporations, ensuring that digital innovation strengthens democracy rather than erodes human dignity.

    An Investment in Trust

    For Jakarta, the diplomatic success in Geneva represents more than symbolic capital. It strengthens Indonesia’s credibility as a human rights leader, reinforcing investor confidence and strategic partnerships.

    It sends a signal that under Prabowo’s leadership, Indonesia is a safe harbor for the rule of law and the protection of human dignity.

    The message from Geneva is unmistakable: Indonesia has moved beyond merely “participating in the international order” to helping define its character.

    This is a victory for humanitarian diplomacy — proof that human dignity can and should stand above short-term economic interests.

    The world may appear increasingly dark, but through its leadership of the UN Human Rights Council, Indonesia has lit a candle of hope.

    The sound of the gavel in Geneva now carries a mandate for Jakarta: to ensure that international law does not remain a tool of coercion, but becomes a living instrument for protecting the world’s most vulnerable.

    Echoes of Humanity

    In his inaugural address to the 80th UN General Assembly last September, President Prabowo employed a powerful metaphor drawn from Indonesia’s own history of injustice:

    “Our nation knows that pain. For centuries, the Indonesian people lived under colonial domination, oppression and enslavement. We were treated as lesser than dogs on our own land.”

    That message has clearly resonated. It affirms that Indonesia understands the suffering of nations still trapped in cycles of oppression, including Palestine — because Indonesia itself was born from the same historical crucible.

    • #Dr. Eko Wahyuanto

    https://ebooks.gramedia.com/id/majalah/matra-indonesia/jan-2026

  • Breaking the Chain of Poverty Through Inclusive Education

    Breaking the Chain of Poverty Through Inclusive Education

    Breaking the Chain of Poverty Through Inclusive Education
    By Dr. Eko Wahyuanto

    On Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated 166 Sekolah Rakyat (People’s Schools) simultaneously across 34 provinces, with the main ceremony held in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan.

    This initiative is part of the government’s broader target to operate a total of 200 Sekolah Rakyat by 2026, supporting the long-term vision of Indonesia Emas 2045.

    Unlike conventional schools, Sekolah Rakyat are specifically designed for children from underprivileged families registered in the National Integrated Socio-Economic Data system.

    By relying on unified and verified data, the government aims to build intelligence and human capital among the younger generation, breaking the cycle of extreme poverty through inclusive and structured access to education.

    The focus of this program goes beyond classrooms and buildings. It directly addresses students’ basic needs — including uniforms, meals and dormitories — so that economic hardship no longer becomes a barrier to learning. Systemic poverty is often hereditary.

    Children born into poor families tend to remain poor due to limited access to nutrition and quality education. Sekolah Rakyat seeks to intervene decisively at this critical juncture.

    Inclusive education as a national strategy

    The launch of Sekolah Rakyat sends a strong message: the development of high-quality human resources must not be concentrated solely in major cities or among middle- and upper-income groups.

    The establishment of 166 new schools represents a concrete effort to equalize educational quality nationwide.

    This aligns with Indonesia’s 2045 targets, which emphasize that educational transformation must reach marginalized communities.

    Sekolah Rakyat functions as a bridge for children in remote and disadvantaged areas, enabling them to acquire competencies comparable to their peers elsewhere as they face global challenges.

    Importantly, Sekolah Rakyat is not a standalone initiative. It complements the Sekolah Garuda (Elite Schools) program, which focuses on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), as well as innovation.

    Building a dual-track education ecosystem is crucial: Sekolah Rakyat ensures the fulfillment of basic rights and poverty alleviation, while Sekolah Garuda cultivates elite technological talent.

    The synergy between the two is expected to strike a balance between social justice and national competitiveness.

    A global perspective

    Indonesia’s move has drawn positive attention from the international education community. Andreas Schleicher, Director for Education and Skills at the OECD, has repeatedly emphasized that separating economic constraints from the learning process is a key determinant of national success. Education remains the most effective instrument for vertical social mobility.

    What Indonesia is doing through Sekolah Rakyat echoes the principle of equality practiced in Finland, where there is virtually no quality gap between schools in remote villages and those in central Helsinki. The Finnish government covers students’ living costs so their sole focus is learning.

    Indonesia also appears to be learning from Vietnam’s experience. Vietnam achieved a remarkable leap in PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) scores through consistent policies that ensured high-quality education access for children of farmers and laborers in rural areas.

    Vietnam has shown that poverty is not a barrier to intelligence when the state provides robust nutritional support and adequate learning facilities.

    Implementation challenges

    Despite its promise, this ambitious program will not be easy to implement. Challenges on the ground range from parental skepticism toward new initiatives to the accuracy of data verification. Without reliable data, assistance risks missing its intended beneficiaries.

    Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond, a leading education policy expert from Stanford University, warns that physical infrastructure represents only half of the battle. Students from low-income backgrounds often carry the psychological trauma of poverty into the classroom.

    Therefore, Sekolah Rakyat must offer strong psychosocial support and be staffed by the best teachers — not leftover or underqualified ones — if it truly aims to break the poverty cycle.

    Long-term success will also depend on budgetary consistency. In 2026, Indonesia’s education budget reaches Rp 757.8 trillion, a 9.8 percent increase from the previous year.

    This impressive figure reflects strong political will to place education above all else. However, strict oversight is non-negotiable. Past experiences show that fund leakages at the regional level can derail even the most well-intentioned programs.

    The government must implement real-time, digital-based audit systems to ensure that every rupiah allocated reaches students’ meals and dormitory facilities. Building 200 Sekolah Rakyat with such a substantial education budget is not merely public spending; it is a “backdoor strategy” to safeguard the state budget in the future by reducing long-term social costs.

    Toward Indonesia Emas 2045

    With this inauguration, the government positions education not merely as a public service, but as a strategic investment. Sekolah Rakyat is expected to become a crucible where children from underprivileged families are shaped not just to survive, but to compete.

    If this program is maintained consistently over the next two decades, then by 2045, the children who today enter Sekolah Rakyat in Banjarbaru or Merauke may emerge as industry leaders, technocrats and entrepreneurs — individuals no longer burdened by the poverty of their past.

    Indonesia is making a bold bet on its people. History shows that investing in education is the only wager that never loses. With an inclusive and empowered human capital foundation, the transition toward Indonesia Emas will no longer be a political slogan, but a lived reality — built one classroom at a time.

    Dr. Eko Wahyuanto is a lecturer, researcher and social-political observer.

  • Government Condemns Intimidation Against Critics, vows Protection for Freedom of Expression

    Government Condemns Intimidation Against Critics, vows Protection for Freedom of Expression

    Indonesiantalk.com — Government condemns intimidation against critics, vows protection for freedom of expression

    Jakarta — The government has taken a firm stance against intimidation and acts of terror targeting citizens, including content creators and activists who voice criticism, warning that attempts to silence dissent—whether physical or digital—will not be tolerated.

    Angga Raka Prabowo, head of the Government Communication Body, said the state unequivocally rejects all forms of threats and harassment directed at members of the public.

    “The government firmly rejects and condemns any form of intimidation, threats or terror against citizens—including content creators, activists, or anyone who expresses criticism,” Angga said in a statement confirmed in Jakarta on Friday.

    His remarks follow reports of intimidation faced by several social media influencers. Ramon Dony Adam, popularly known as DJ Donny, said his home had been repeatedly targeted. On Monday (Dec. 29), a dead chicken was delivered to his residence.

    Two days later, in the early hours of Wednesday (Dec. 31), CCTV footage captured an unidentified person throwing a Molotov cocktail at his house.

    “This terror not only harms me personally, but also endangers my family and the surrounding community,” Donny told reporters at Polda Metro Jaya. He also said he had received frequent threats via phone calls and social media messages.

    Similar incidents were reported by Sherly Annavita, whose car was vandalized by unknown individuals, and by Chiki Fawzi, who said she had been subjected to digital threats.

    All three said the intimidation began after they publicly criticized the government’s handling of disasters in Aceh and parts of Sumatra.

    Angga stressed that freedom of expression is a constitutional right guaranteed to all Indonesians, citing Article 28E paragraph (3) of the 1945 Constitution. “Freedom of expression is a constitutional right and is protected by law,” he said.

    As digital platforms increasingly become arenas for public scrutiny and debate, Angga said differences of opinion must never be answered with intimidation or violence.

    The state, he added, has an obligation to ensure the safety of every citizen who expresses their views—both in physical spaces and across the digital sphere.

  • SUNRA Launches Three New Electric Bike Models to Strengthen Indonesia’s EV Ecosystem

    SUNRA Launches Three New Electric Bike Models to Strengthen Indonesia’s EV Ecosystem

    Indonesiantalk.com — SUNRA launches three new electric bike models to strengthen Indonesia’s EV ecosystem

    SUNRA Indonesia on Monday unveiled three new electric bike models — SUNRA ANNA, SUNRA BOLD, and SUNRA BOWEN — as part of its strategy to expand its electric vehicle (EV) portfolio and reinforce the country’s growing EV ecosystem.

    The launch, held in Jakarta on Dec. 15, was packaged as a national dealer gathering, bringing together SUNRA partners from across Indonesia.

    The event was attended by PT Sunra Asia Pacific Hi-Tech commissioner Ismeth Wibowo, Indonesian Electric Motorcycle Industry Association (Aismoli) chairman Budi Setiyadi, and former National Police commissioner Mulyatno. Also present were SUNRA representatives Wu Jianhua, Guo Biao, and SUNRA Indonesia operations manager Franky Noventus.

    The three new models are designed to address diverse mobility needs, offering modern styling, updated technology and improved range to suit daily use in urban environments.

    The SUNRA ANNA is positioned as a minimalist electric bike for everyday commuting. With a top speed of 40 kilometers per hour and a range of up to 55 kilometers, the model is aimed at students, office workers and users seeking a compact and practical vehicle.

    Its ergonomic design and bright color options are expected to appeal to younger riders and families.

    Meanwhile, the SUNRA BOLD features a larger body and enhanced durability, making it suitable for more intensive daily use.

    The model offers a range of up to 60 kilometers, a top speed of 40 kph, dual disc brakes and front-and-rear suspension.

    SUNRA said the BOLD is designed to support users with high mobility demands, including micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and short-distance delivery services.

    The most premium offering, SUNRA BOWEN, adopts a sporty and futuristic design. It is equipped with a full digital display panel, smart key system, anti-theft features and LED lighting, with a range of up to 50 kilometers.

    The model targets consumers seeking a more technologically advanced electric bike.

    Ismeth said the launch underscored SUNRA’s long-term commitment to supporting Indonesia’s transition to cleaner transportation.

    “The introduction of ANNA, BOLD and BOWEN reflects our commitment to delivering innovations that align with the mobility needs of Indonesian consumers,” he said, while also expressing hope that the government would continue electric motorcycle incentives in 2026.

    Franky added that SUNRA remains focused on producing electric vehicles that are safe, comfortable and affordable.

    “We want people from all segments of society to experience high-quality electric vehicles with reliable safety standards,” he said.

    SUNRA Indonesia has also been expanding its after-sales services, including spare parts availability, service centers and dealer networks nationwide, to ensure adequate technical support for customers.

    The company expressed optimism that the new models would accelerate adoption of electric bikes in the domestic market and broaden access to environmentally friendly transportation options.

    The dealer gathering concluded with a dinner reception at Ma Ji Palace Restaurant in Pantai Indah Kapuk, North Jakarta.

     

  • On Nusantara Day, Indonesia Urged to Strengthen Effective Presence at Sea

    On Nusantara Day, Indonesia Urged to Strengthen Effective Presence at Sea

    Indonesiantalk.com — On Nusantara Day, Indonesia urged to strengthen effective presence at sea

    Indonesia on Saturday commemorated Nusantara Day, marking the historic Djuanda Declaration of 1957, a milestone that reshaped the nation’s maritime outlook by redefining the sea not as a divider, but as the connective tissue of the archipelago.

    The declaration, delivered on Dec. 13, 1957 by then prime minister Ir. H. Djuanda Kartawidjaja, fundamentally altered Indonesia’s territorial doctrine.

    Prior to 1957, Indonesia’s maritime boundaries were governed by a 1939 Dutch colonial ordinance that limited territorial seas to three nautical miles from each island’s coastline.

    The rule effectively turned waters between islands into international seas, allowing foreign vessels to traverse the heart of Indonesian territory and fragmenting the country’s legal sovereignty.

    “This situation was unjust and incompatible with Indonesia’s geographic reality as a vast archipelagic nation,” maritime scholars note.

    The Djuanda Declaration asserted that all waters surrounding, between and connecting Indonesia’s islands form an inseparable part of national sovereignty.

    It also introduced a 12-nautical-mile territorial sea measured from straight baselines linking the outermost points of the archipelago — a principle that later became the foundation of Indonesia’s status as an archipelagic state.

    Call for a stronger state presence at sea

    The commemoration was marked by an event hosted by the Faculty of Marine Engineering at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS), in collaboration with the Diktimarin Forum.

    Held at the Seatrans Conference Hall in Surabaya and attended both in person and online, the event also featured the launch of a book celebrating 65 years of the ITS marine engineering faculty.

    Marine engineering professor Daniel Mohammad Rosyid said Nusantara Day served as a reminder that the sea is the main connector of an archipelago as vast as Europe. “This awareness must translate into policy and capacity,” he said.

    Members of the Diktimarin Forum’s advisory board stressed that the government must deepen its effective presence at sea — not merely symbolically, but operationally.

    This includes ensuring maritime activities are efficient, secure from illegal practices and safe from accidents, while also safeguarding marine ecosystems.

    Indonesia, they added, needs more vessels of various types and sizes built by domestic shipyards, a resilient national shipping fleet and modern, efficient ports.

    “What we need is a cabinet that truly embraces a maritime orientation,” a forum representative said, referring to the current Merah Putih Cabinet.

    The forum also called on younger generations to become more familiar with Indonesia’s abundant agro-maritime potential, positioning the sea as a source of prosperity rather than conflict.

    A legacy to be continued

    Separately, Ismeth Wibowo, a grandson of Djuanda, urged future generations to carry forward his grandfather’s legacy.

    “Safeguarding maritime sovereignty must go hand in hand with ensuring prosperity for all Indonesians, not just a privileged few,” he said.

    Ismeth also expressed appreciation to the government, particularly to former president Megawati Soekarnoputri, who formally designated Dec. 13 as Nusantara Day through Presidential Decree No. 126/2001.

    From national doctrine to international law

    Although proclaimed in 1957, Indonesia’s archipelagic concept gained international recognition only decades later.

    The principle was accepted globally through the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and came into force for Indonesia after ratification in 1994.

    Nusantara Day now stands as a reminder that the sea has been central to Indonesia’s territorial integrity, political struggle and national identity as the world’s largest archipelagic state.

    Djuanda, who died at the age of 52 in 1963, held numerous key posts throughout his career, including prime minister, defense minister, finance minister and public works minister.

    He was later named a National Hero, and his name lives on across the country — from Juanda International Airport in Surabaya to dams, forests, university buildings and even Indonesia’s Rp50,000 banknote — underscoring the enduring relevance of his maritime vision.

     

  • Garuda Astacita Nusantara establishes legal aid foundation, expands grassroots role

    Garuda Astacita Nusantara establishes legal aid foundation, expands grassroots role

    Indonesiantalk.com — Garuda Astacita Nusantara establishes legal aid foundation, expands grassroots role

    Mass organization Garuda Astacita Nusantara (GAN) has established a legal aid body, the Garuda Adil Nasional Legal Aid Foundation (YLBH GAN), marking a new phase in its effort to combine civic activism with policy advocacy.

    Formally founded on Oct. 21, 2025, the legal aid foundation is led by lawyer and academic Yuspan Zalukhu, who serves as its director. Despite being only three months old, YLBH GAN has moved swiftly to take on high-profile public interest cases.

    The foundation is currently handling a series of class action lawsuits representing mobile phone users against major telecommunications operators, including PT Telkom Indonesia (through its Telkomsel and IndiHome services), PT Indosat, and XLSmart Telecom Sejahtera (XL Smart).

    The lawsuits also name the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) as a co-defendant.

    According to Yuspan, the plaintiffs argue that the operators’ internet quota expiration policies constitute unlawful conduct, as unused data is forfeited without compensation or benefit rollover.

    “These companies are being sued for policies that cause consumers’ remaining internet quotas to expire without compensation or extension,” Yuspan said in a statement issued in Jakarta.

    “This practice contradicts the principles of law, justice and consumer protection,” he added.

    Yuspan estimated that the annual losses suffered by mobile users due to expiring data quotas could reach Rp 63 trillion (US$4 billion), describing the situation as a reflection of the state’s failure to adequately protect public interests in the digital sector.

    The class action lawsuits demand that the court order operators to implement non-expiring quotas, establish rollover mechanisms or automatic extensions, and ensure transparency in data usage deductions. The first court hearing was held on Wednesday, Dec. 10.

    “This is YLBH GAN’s first major action to defend citizens whose rights have been unilaterally stripped away,” Yuspan said.

    Marking one year with policy engagement

    The launch of the legal aid foundation coincided with GAN’s first anniversary, commemorated through a national seminar and anniversary event held at the Nyi Ageng Serang Building in South Jakarta on Friday.

    Rather than a celebratory affair, the event underscored GAN’s stated commitment to advancing the Asta Cita agenda of President Prabowo Subianto, particularly in areas of food security and human capital development.

    GAN chairman Muhammad Burhanuddin said the organization’s first year had been about translating political support into tangible social action.

    “This anniversary is not merely ceremonial. It proves that political support can be converted into social movements that directly impact the public,” Burhanuddin said.

    Since being legally established on Dec. 6, 2024, GAN has positioned itself as an active civil society actor rather than a post-election support group.

    Burhanuddin said the organization had adopted Asta Cita’s eight priority missions—ranging from food resilience and economic independence to defense strengthening and equitable development—as its operational blueprint.

    One of GAN’s earliest initiatives was its involvement in overseeing the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, which it began supporting on the ground in 26 provinces starting in January 2025.

    While many stakeholders were still debating policy frameworks, GAN opted to engage directly at the grassroots level to ensure effective delivery, Burhanuddin said.

    “President Prabowo cannot work in isolation. He needs a strong support system on the ground to make sure programs reach the people,” he added.

    Expanding regional presence

    Over the past year, GAN has rapidly expanded its regional structure by forming provincial branches (DPW), reflecting its belief that equitable development cannot be driven solely from Jakarta.

    In South Sulawesi, for instance, the regional branch under Sugianto Wahid organized a public dialogue titled Safeguarding the President’s Asta Cita, bringing together local government officials and civil society groups to discuss national development priorities.

    GAN plans to use its second year to deepen its involvement in public political education, community economic empowerment and oversight of strategic government programs. Burhanuddin emphasized that the organization would maintain an independent yet constructive stance.

    “We will remain critical, independent and constructive in ensuring that Asta Cita is implemented for a more advanced and equitable Indonesia,” he said.

  • Sunra Launches New Electric Motorcycle Models amid Indonesia’s EV push

    Sunra Launches New Electric Motorcycle Models amid Indonesia’s EV push

    Indonesiantalk.com — Indonesian electric vehicle maker Sunra Indonesia has unveiled three new electric motorcycle models—Anna, Bold and Bowen—signaling its bid to capture a growing domestic market as Indonesia accelerates its transition toward cleaner mobility.

    “The launch of Anna, Bold and Bowen is our commitment to delivering innovation tailored to Indonesia’s mobility needs,” Sunra Indonesia president commissioner Ismeth Wibowo said in Jakarta on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025.

    The move comes as Indonesia’s electric vehicle (EV) industry undergoes rapid transformation. Public interest in EVs—particularly electric motorcycles—has been rising, driven by environmental awareness, lower operating costs and supportive government policies, including subsidies and streamlined administrative processes.

    The government has set an ambitious target of putting 13 million electric motorcycles on Indonesian roads by 2030.

    Globally, transportation is in the midst of a fundamental shift toward sustainability. Mounting concern over climate change and continued reliance on fossil fuels have positioned electric vehicles as a promising alternative.

    Beyond their zero-emissions profile, two-wheeled EVs offer markedly lower operating costs and practical advantages for dense urban mobility—an important consideration for Indonesian cities.

    The sector’s growth has also attracted significant investment. Several global manufacturers have expanded operations and built assembly plants in Indonesia, underscoring a shift from import dependence toward strengthening local industry.

    Sunra, for its part, has invested heavily in building a production facility in Indonesia, targeting an annual capacity of up to one million units and the creation of thousands of jobs.

    Despite the positive outlook, challenges remain. Charging infrastructure—particularly the uneven distribution of public charging stations (SPKLU)—continues to be a key concern.

    Public education on battery safety, maintenance and long-term total cost of ownership also requires sustained attention.

    Sunra Indonesia operations manager Franky Noventus acknowledged these hurdles, emphasizing the importance of building a mature ecosystem.

    “Our commitment does not stop at selling units,” he said. “We will expand our after-sales service network and continue educating the public to ensure a safe and optimal electric vehicle ownership experience.”

    As competition intensifies and policy support continues, industry players like Sunra are betting that localized production, ecosystem development and consumer trust will determine who leads Indonesia’s electric motorcycle market in the years ahead.

  • Ismeth Wibowo Represents Wu Yi Group China at Market Sounding for RSUD Wangaya PPP Project

    Ismeth Wibowo Represents Wu Yi Group China at Market Sounding for RSUD Wangaya PPP Project

    IndonesianTalk.com-– Ismeth Wibowo Represents Wu Yi Group China at Market Sounding for RSUD Wangaya PPP Project

     The Denpasar City Government has moved forward with its strategic plan to strengthen public healthcare services through the development of Wangaya Regional General Hospital (RSUD Wangaya).

    The project, being prepared under a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) scheme, has now entered a crucial phase: a market sounding aimed at drawing interest from investors and strategic partners.

    At the session held at the Mövenpick Hotel Jakarta City Centre, Pecenongan, Senior Advisor of China’s Wu Yi Group, Ismeth Wibowo, attended the forum alongside Lin Yonghong, Manager of Administration.

    Their presence signals the company’s early interest in potential investment opportunities in Denpasar’s healthcare infrastructure sector.

    Wu Yi Group is one of China’s major construction and engineering enterprises, and its participation underscores growing international attention toward the project.

    A Strategic Healthcare Project Worth Rp800–900 Billion

    The development of RSUD Wangaya is planned as a modern medical facility with a capacity of 350–400 beds, supported by upgraded medical technologies and improved service systems.

    The expansion is expected to meet the increasing healthcare needs of Denpasar and the wider Bali region, while strengthening local health resilience.

    To realize this ambition, the project is estimated to require a capital expenditure of Rp800–900 billion, necessitating collaboration with private partners that possess strong financial capacity and technical expertise.

    The PPP model provides a mechanism for structured, sustainable development while ensuring efficient project delivery.

    Market Sounding: A Key Stage Before Tender

    The market sounding served as an official platform for dialogue between the government and potential private partners regarding risk allocation, investment needs, project structure, and implementation strategies.

    Event Details: Date: Wednesday, 10 December 2025.Time: 08.00 WIB.Venue: Mövenpick Hotel Jakarta City Centre, Jl. Pecenongan Kav. 7–17, Jakarta Pusat

    During the session, the Denpasar City Government presented an overview of the project design, legal basis for PPP implementation, and long-term collaboration potentials.

    Denpasar Government Signals Strong Commitment

    The official invitation for the market sounding was signed by the Mayor of Denpasar as the Project Owner (PJPK), reaffirming the city’s commitment to advancing the RSUD Wangaya development as a regional priority.

    The project aims to expand hospital capacity, improve service quality, and ensure more humane and responsive healthcare delivery for the community.

    The attendance of Ismeth Wibowo and Lin Yonghong from Wu Yi Group provided a positive signal for the project’s prospects.

    Their participation not only indicates international investor interest but also highlights the RSUD Wangaya PPP as an appealing initiative blending public objectives with private-sector expertise.

    With broad stakeholder support, the development of RSUD Wangaya is positioned to become a model for effective healthcare infrastructure collaboration—offering improved access and better medical services for residents of Denpasar and Bali.