When Criticism Meets the Law: A Test of Democracy in Indonesia

 By Kusnandar & Co.,  Attorneys At Law – Jakarta, Indonesia

 

The recent reports of academics being reported to the police for criticizing the government have sparked renewed debate about freedom of expression in Indonesia. In response, Yusril Ihza Mahendra stated that academics are free to express criticism. At first glance, this sounds reassuring. However, the reality is more complicated than it seems.

In principle, criticism from academics is not only normal but necessary. Academics rely on data, research, and critical thinking to evaluate public policies. Their role is to question, analyze, and, when needed, challenge the government’s decisions. Without this kind of input, policies risk becoming one-sided and less effective. In this sense, criticism is not an attack—it is a contribution.

The problem arises when such criticism leads to police reports. While Yusril emphasized that criticism is allowed, he also acknowledged that anyone has the right to file a report. Law enforcement authorities, in turn, are obligated to follow up on these reports, at least at an initial stage. This creates a gray area: criticism is legally protected, yet it can still trigger legal processes.

This situation can discourage people from speaking out. Even if someone is ultimately proven innocent, being involved in a legal process can be stressful, time-consuming, and intimidating. As a result, many may choose to stay silent rather than take the risk. This phenomenon is often referred to as a “chilling effect,” where fear limits open expression.

In a democratic society, criticism should be seen as a healthy and essential element. Governments benefit from feedback, especially when it is constructive and evidence-based. Without criticism, there is a risk that those in power may become less responsive or even dismissive of public concerns.

That said, freedom of expression does not mean absolute freedom without limits. Criticism should be grounded in facts, delivered responsibly, and should not incite hatred or violence. Clear boundaries are necessary, but they must also be applied fairly and consistently, without being used to silence legitimate voices.

In my view, ethical mechanisms should come before legal ones. If an academic is accused of wrongdoing, the issue should first be examined through institutional or professional channels, such as universities or academic bodies. Legal action, especially criminal prosecution, should be the last resort—not the default response.

Yusril’s statement reflects an attempt to balance two important principles: protecting freedom of expression while respecting the rule of law. However, the real challenge lies in how these principles are implemented. If reports against critics are too easily processed without careful consideration, the promise of freedom may feel hollow.

Ultimately, this issue highlights an important question for Indonesia’s democracy: Is criticism truly accepted as part of a healthy political system, or is it still viewed as a threat? The answer will shape not only the future of academic freedom but also the broader landscape of civil liberties in the country.

A strong democracy is not one that avoids criticism, but one that can handle it with openness and maturity.

By : K&Co - April 23, 2026

Rupiah Weakens to Rp17,300: What Does It Mean for Us?

 By Kusnandar & Co.,  Attorneys At Law – Jakarta, Indonesia

 

The rupiah weakening to Rp17,300 per US dollar is not just a number in economic news. It is a sign that the economy is under pressure. In the report, Airlangga Hartarto stated that the government is continuing to monitor the situation and emphasized that this weakening is also happening in many other countries. While this is true, it still needs to be understood more carefully.

Globally, the economic situation is indeed unstable. Conflicts in several regions, rising global oil prices, and a stronger US dollar have put pressure on many currencies, including the rupiah. When oil prices increase, Indonesia has to spend more on energy imports. This puts additional pressure on the rupiah.

However, it is not enough to simply say that all countries are experiencing the same thing. In reality, some countries’ currencies have not weakened as much as Indonesia’s. This means that, besides global factors, there are also domestic issues that need attention.

One of the main problems is Indonesia’s heavy reliance on energy imports, especially oil. When global oil prices rise, the impact is immediately felt in the economy. Government spending increases, which in turn adds pressure on the currency. This is not a new issue, but it has yet to be properly resolved.

The weakening rupiah also directly affects everyday people. Imported goods become more expensive, which can lead to higher prices overall. When prices rise, people’s purchasing power declines. Over time, this can slow down economic growth and make daily life more difficult.

On the other hand, the government maintains that Indonesia’s economic fundamentals remain strong. Inflation is relatively under control, and economic growth continues. This is important to maintain public and investor confidence. However, statements alone are not enough without clear and concrete actions.

In our view, a response that focuses only on “monitoring” the situation feels insufficient. People need clarity about what steps will be taken. For example, how the government plans to reduce dependence on energy imports or how it will keep prices stable.

Transparency is also important. The government should communicate openly about the real situation, including potential risks ahead. This would help the public and businesses prepare better and avoid the impression that the issue is being underestimated.

The weakening of the rupiah should serve as a reminder that Indonesia needs to strengthen its economic independence. The country cannot continue to rely heavily on global conditions. Concrete efforts are needed to strengthen domestic production, especially in the energy sector.

In conclusion, what Airlangga Hartarto said may sound reassuring, but it should not make us complacent. This is a real issue with real impacts on people’s lives. If not handled seriously, the weakening rupiah could become a bigger problem in the future, rather than just a temporary fluctuation.

By : K&C - April 23, 2026

Rising Oil Prices and What It Means for Us

 By Kusnandar & Co.,  Attorneys At Law – Jakarta, Indonesia

 

The recent 3 percent increase in global oil prices, driven by tensions between Iran and the Amerika Serikat, highlights how unstable the global situation currently is. While a 3 percent rise may seem small at first glance, its impact can be significant—especially for countries that still rely on imported oil, such as Indonesia.

This increase is not only caused by actual disruptions in oil supply, but also by market concerns. Whenever tensions rise in the Middle East, global markets tend to react quickly. There is a strong fear that key oil distribution routes could be disrupted, particularly the Selat Hormuz, one of the most important oil shipping lanes in the world. If this route were to be blocked or disturbed, global oil supply could drop sharply, pushing prices even higher.

This situation shows that oil prices are heavily influenced by political conditions, not just economic factors. As long as the world remains dependent on oil, conflicts in certain regions will continue to have wide-reaching effects. Even relatively small tensions can trigger immediate price increases.

For Indonesia, this is a situation that requires serious attention. As a country that still imports a portion of its oil needs, rising global prices will be felt directly. The government may face increased pressure to keep fuel prices stable. Otherwise, higher fuel prices could lead to broader increases in the cost of goods and services.

The impact does not stop there. Rising oil prices usually lead to higher transportation costs. When transportation becomes more expensive, the prices of basic goods often follow. In the end, it is the public—especially lower- and middle-income groups—who bear the greatest burden.

This pattern is not new. Almost every time there is conflict in the Middle East, oil prices rise. This reflects a deeper issue: the global energy system still depends heavily on regions that are politically unstable. This dependency makes the global economy vulnerable.

Therefore, this situation should serve as an important reminder for Indonesia. The country cannot continue to rely heavily on imported oil. Concrete steps are needed to reduce this dependence, such as developing alternative energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal power.

In addition, improving energy efficiency is just as important. People can start with simple actions, such as reducing the use of private vehicles or using energy more wisely. Lower consumption can help reduce the impact of global price increases.

From the government’s side, energy policies need to be more forward-looking and decisive. It is not enough to respond only when prices rise; there must be long-term strategies to minimize future risks.

In conclusion, the rise in oil prices is not just a routine economic issue. It is a signal of global uncertainty that directly affects countries like Indonesia. Without proper anticipation and action, the impact could become more severe. That is why both the government and society need to adapt and work toward reducing dependence on unpredictable global conditions.

By : K&Co - April 22, 2026

Refusing Debt Is Bold, but Caution Still Matters

By Kusnandar & Co.,  Attorneys At Law – Jakarta, Indonesia

 

The decision by Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to reject loan offers from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank has drawn attention. The government argues that Indonesia’s fiscal condition is still strong, so there is no urgent need to take on additional debt.

At a basic level, this decision sounds positive. It suggests that Indonesia is still capable of funding its needs without relying on foreign loans. This can be seen as a sign that the country’s financial situation is stable, even as global conditions remain uncertain.

Refusing debt can also be a wise move. Loans are never truly free—they must be repaid, often with interest. If the funds are not urgently needed, taking on new debt could simply create a heavier burden in the future. By declining these offers, the government is trying to keep the country’s finances under control.

This decision may also boost national confidence. Indonesia appears to be signaling that it does not always need support from international institutions like the IMF or World Bank. This is important, especially considering that in the past, many countries faced serious problems due to excessive reliance on foreign debt.

However, this decision should also be viewed with caution. The global economic situation is still unstable. Many factors can change quickly, such as geopolitical conflicts, rising energy prices, or a slowdown in the global economy.

Even if Indonesia’s fiscal condition is currently strong, it may not remain that way forever. In the event of a major crisis, government spending needs could rise suddenly. In such situations, external financing—including loans—can become an important tool to maintain economic stability.

This is where balance becomes crucial. Refusing debt is reasonable, but it should not mean closing all options. The government still needs to prepare backup plans in case conditions worsen. Being confident is good, but overconfidence can be risky if it leads to delayed responses during a crisis.

More importantly, the issue is not just about accepting or rejecting debt, but about how well the country manages its finances. If government spending is efficient and well-targeted, the need for borrowing can be minimized. On the other hand, poor financial management can turn even small amounts of debt into serious problems.

Looking ahead, the government should also focus on strengthening state revenue, such as through taxation and economic growth. This would help reduce dependence on borrowing in the long term. In conclusion, rejecting loan offers from the IMF and World Bank is a bold and generally positive step. However, given the uncertainty of the global situation, caution remains essential. Confidence is important, but it must be supported by careful planning and responsible financial management. 

By : K&Co - April 22, 2026

Indonesia Needs More Than Just Alternative Oil Imports

 By Kusnandar & Co., Attorneys At Law – Jakarta, Indonesia

The Indonesian government’s move to prepare alternative sources of oil imports amid the Middle East conflict is understandable and important. The Strait of Hormuz, a strategic global oil route, has always been a potential flashpoint. Any tension in this region can disrupt global oil supply and trigger domestic energy price surges. Redirecting some imports to countries like the United States or Brazil may reduce short-term risk, but this approach remains reactive rather than a long-term strategic solution.

Approximately 20–25% of Indonesia’s oil imports come from the Middle East. Even a brief disruption in supply from this region can significantly impact the national economy. Indonesia’s energy dependence is further compounded by limited domestic reserves, sufficient for only about three weeks of consumption. In other words, the country is teetering on a thin line between energy stability and a potential sudden crisis.

While diversifying import sources is crucial, it merely mitigates risk temporarily. Shifting reliance from one region to another does not address the underlying problem: Indonesia is still heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels. This strategy may also create new challenges, such as higher logistics costs and longer delivery times, which are ultimately passed on to consumers.

This situation should serve as a stark warning: energy resilience is not merely a matter of trade—it is a question of economic sovereignty. Countries that rely heavily on energy imports are always vulnerable to global market shocks. Therefore, the government must move its focus from short-term risk mitigation to more fundamental and sustainable strategies.

Urgent measures include boosting domestic oil production, expanding strategic energy reserves, and most importantly, accelerating the transition to renewable energy. Renewable energy is not only an environmental solution; in a global geopolitical context, it is also a form of national independence. Strengthening energy resilience allows Indonesia to withstand international disruptions without constantly depending on decisions made by other countries or facing oil price spikes that harm its population.

Furthermore, the global crisis should be treated as a catalyst for national energy reform. Policies that promote energy independence mean that Indonesia is not just “protected from global shocks” but also in control of its economic future. Energy security must be a cornerstone of economic and political stability, not merely a technical issue in crude oil trade.

In conclusion, preparing alternative oil import sources is both necessary and logical in the short term. However, this approach cannot stop there. Indonesia must take bolder steps, building energy independence through domestic diversification, strategic reserves, and a transition to clean energy. Only then will global geopolitical crises cease to be a direct threat to the people and the country’s economic stability.

Indonesia has the opportunity to turn a global challenge into a strategic advantage: not just surviving fluctuations in the world oil market, but leading a national energy transformation that is independent, resilient, and sustainable.

By : K&Co - March 16, 2026

Global Crises Call on Indonesia to Take Action

By Kusnandar & Co.,  Attorneys At Law – Jakarta, Indonesia

 

The recent meeting between President Prabowo Subianto and the Chief of the National Economic Council, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, underscores that global geopolitical uncertainty is no longer a distant issue for Indonesia’s economy. With the escalation of conflict in the Middle East causing energy price volatility and instability in global markets, Indonesia now faces tangible risks affecting energy security, fiscal stability, and government budgets.

That this meeting was called directly by the President is significant. It signals recognition that foreign conflicts—which may seem remote—can have immediate consequences for Indonesia, including surges in oil prices, disruptions to global supply chains, and pressures on the balance of payments and national budgets.

However, this meeting also raises a broader question: Is Indonesia truly prepared to withstand increasingly frequent global shocks? Heavy reliance on imported energy, limited strategic reserves, and vulnerability to international market fluctuations remain structural challenges that have been repeatedly noted but not fully resolved. Statements from President Prabowo assuring that domestic fuel and gas supplies are sufficient may provide short-term reassurance, but they do not change the reality that major geopolitical crises demand accelerated reforms in energy resilience and economic stability.

The focus on energy stability, oil pricing, and budget preparedness is pragmatic. Yet, it should also be a catalyst for Indonesia to reduce its dependence on global energy markets, boost domestic production, expand strategic reserves, and accelerate the transition to renewable energy. Dependence on imported oil not only weakens economic leverage but also exposes the country to heightened vulnerability amid escalating global geopolitical tensions.

Moreover, macroeconomic and fiscal policies must be designed to withstand external shocks. As other nations implement measures such as energy efficiency programs, demand management, and responsive monetary policies, Indonesia cannot afford to lag. Current geopolitical challenges should be viewed not merely as threats, but as a call to strengthen national resilience comprehensively.

Ultimately, the meeting between President Prabowo and Luhut is an important first step. But if responses remain limited to short-term preparedness, Indonesia will continue to react to crises rather than anticipate them. Strengthening energy resilience, diversifying the economy, and implementing bold fiscal reforms must be a long-term priority. Only with a comprehensive strategy can Indonesia ensure that global conflicts, like the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East, no longer shake the foundations of its national economy.

By : K&Co - March 16, 2026

The Search of the Ombudsman Office and the Test of Institutional Integrity

 By Kusnandar & Co.,  Attorneys At Law – Jakarta, Indonesia

 

The search of the office of the Ombudsman Republic Indonesia by investigators from the Kejaksaan Agung Republic Indonesia has drawn significant public attention. An institution known for supervising public services is now involved in a legal investigation. This situation raises questions among the public regarding the integrity of state institutions and the effectiveness of the existing oversight system.

The Ombudsman plays an important role in monitoring public services and handling public complaints related to maladministration by government institutions. Therefore, when this supervisory institution becomes part of a legal investigation, public trust may be affected. People may begin to question how an institution responsible for oversight could become involved in a law enforcement process.

However, the action taken by the Attorney General’s Office can also be seen as a demonstration of law enforcement that does not discriminate. In a state governed by the rule of law, no institution or individual is above the law. If there are allegations that certain parties are involved in a case, investigators have the authority to conduct searches and examinations to uncover the facts.

This case also highlights that the fight against corruption in Indonesia remains complex. Corruption often involves broad networks that may include private actors as well as public institutions. In such situations, law enforcement agencies must work professionally, transparently, and based on strong evidence so that the legal process can proceed fairly and without creating unnecessary speculation in society.

At the same time, the public should observe this case objectively while upholding the principle of the presumption of innocence. Legal processes must be allowed to run their course without excessive pressure or premature conclusions. If violations of the law are proven, those responsible must be held accountable according to existing regulations. Conversely, if no sufficient evidence is found, the reputation of the institution concerned should be restored.

This incident should serve as a moment of reflection for all state institutions to strengthen their internal integrity systems. Transparency, accountability, and ethical standards among public officials must remain priorities in carrying out governmental duties. By doing so, public trust in state institutions can be maintained.

Ultimately, strengthening institutional integrity is essential to building clean and credible governance. Public trust is a fundamental asset for ensuring that oversight, public service, and law enforcement functions operate effectively in Indonesia. Without that trust, efforts to create good governance will be difficult to achieve.

By : K&Co - March 9, 2026