Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has sparked significant discussion recently with his proposals and scheduled public appearances. His comments on potentially granting pardons to corruptors willing to return stolen goods captured attention at his speech at Al-Azhar University, Cairo, on December 18, 2024. The idea of allowing corrupt officials to repay the state for forgiven past misdeeds has drawn both support and strong criticism.
During his address, Prabowo presented this as a 'way out' for those who have misappropriated state funds, asserting, "Hey corruptors, or those who have stolen (from the state), if you return what you stole, I will forgive you." This statement has led prominent legal experts and political observers to voice concerns about its potential effects on accountability and transparency.
Former Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court, Mahfud MD, cautioned against the policy's risks, stressing the importance of mechanisms to verify the amounts returned to the state. “Transparency and accountability are important. If no one reports, it cannot be ascertained whether the amount handed over to the state is correct or not,” Mahfud commented.
Despite the criticism, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, Coordinated Minister for Law, Human Rights, and Immigration, indicated there was little constitutional conflict with such pardons, as the Indonesian president has the authority granted under Article 14 of the 1945 Constitution. Yet, he emphasized the necessity for caution and the need for due process before implementing any such policies.
This proposed approach by Prabowo is seen as controversial, especially considering his earlier firm stance against corruption. Throughout March and August of 2024, he reiterated his commitment to tackling corruption, even promising budget allocations expressly for anti-corruption initiatives. Shifting to allow pardons raises questions about the sincerity of those past commitments, according to critics.
Public sentiment remains divided. Boyamin Saiman, Coordinator of the Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI), expressed skepticism about the feasibility of corruptors willingly returning stolen funds. “Corruptors who have been tried often claim to be innocent, how can they return the stolen money?” Saiman posed, reflecting broader doubts about the proposal.
On another front, President Prabowo also prepares to attend the National Christmas Celebration at the Indonesia Arena on December 28, 2024. This event is expected to bring together leaders from various ministries, religious organizations, and interfaith figures. General Chairperson Thomas Djiwando noted, “The theme for this year's celebration is 'Let Us Go to Bethlehem.'” True to this spirit, the celebration will include various social and humanitarian services aimed at assisting economically or physically marginalized communities.
Such initiatives have been undertaken across regions, from Timika to areas facing recent floods and landslides. Participants are expected to number around 12,000, with additional provisions made for public viewing outside the main venue.
The convergence of these events also coincides with Indonesia's increased economic partnerships, particularly with India. Under Prabowo's leadership, Indonesia seeks to solidify its relationship with India as bilateral trade reached USD 29.4 billion during the fiscal year 2023-24. The heightened economic exchange has locked both nations on the path to strengthening cooperation across various sectors, including energy, technology, and defense.
Mohan Ramaswamy, CEO of Rubix Data Sciences, indicated optimism for the future of Indonesia's economy, projecting 5.1% GDP growth for 2025 alongside controlled inflation rates. This positions Indonesia as not just a consumer market but as stable ground for foreign investment, especially with its control over global nickel production, critically needed for electric vehicles.
Defence ties are also deepening, with recent visits of Indian naval vessels to Indonesia emphasizing the commitment to collaborative efforts. Together, both nations are focused on bolstering their defence frameworks and enhancing indigenous capabilities, which could include Indonesia's interest in acquiring India's advanced BrahMos cruise missile systems.
Prabowo Subianto's balancing act between addressing corruption, maintaining social harmony, and forging international partnerships may prove pivotal for Indonesia's future—one filled with distinct challenges and opportunities. This continuous evolution is set against the backdrop of increasing regional and global competition, particularly visible concerning relationships with other major players like China.
