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Indonesia's New Penal Code: Reforms Spark Controversy

1/3/2026

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Story summary
  • Indonesia enforces its new penal code, signaling a shift from colonial-era laws toward rehabilitation, praised by Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra.
  • The code expands rehabilitation-focused penalties, such as community service and mediation, and adds intellectual property penalties while digitizing courts.
  • Critics say the reforms reduce penalties for corruption and other offenses, triggering backlash.
  • Investigations into a state-owned gas company for embezzlement began in March 2025, highlighting ongoing corruption concerns.