New Reformist and Human Rights-Oriented Laws: Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code
On January 2, 2026, Indonesia saw the enactment of newly revised versions of its Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. This long-awaited reform marks a significant turning point in the country’s history, addressing the legacies of colonial times and the New Order regime. The Vice Chairman of the Commission III of the People’s Representative Council, Habiburokhman, described these laws as reformist and human-rights-oriented, emphasizing their importance for justice-seeking by the entire people. This legislative evolution concluded after 29 years of discussions and reforms, introducing a more equitable and humane approach to jurisprudence. The National Police of Indonesia has already started adapting to the new regulations, altering their operational procedures to ensure more effective and humane enforcement of the laws. These new codes symbolize a shift from the repressive use of law as a tool of power to a fairer, more inclusive system serving the interests of the society.
The innovations and reforms signal a gradual transition to a more transparent, open legal system that seeks to protect the rights of citizens. Habiburokhman highlighted the importance of timely updating these laws, which needed refreshing at the dawn of the reformist era. The National Police of Indonesia has released guidance and adapted administrative formats to ensure more effective enforcement and implementation of the new laws. These changes herald long-awaited improvements in the country’s justice system where jurisprudence is now aligned with international human rights standards.
As Habiburokhman stated: ‘We are entering a new era where the law will no longer serve as a tool of force but as a path to justice for every citizen.’ This legislative effort is not merely a change in legal texts but signals profound social changes within Indonesian society, where everyone can finally seek justice in a more benevolent legal environment.
The transition to the new codes will also bring a significant transformation in law enforcement practices, which experts believe should have been enacted at the outset of the reformist period.
