Archipelagic Regions Bill Enters Prolegnas, DPD RI's Role Grows More Strategic

Formappi researcher Lucius Karus has assessed that the DPD RI’s efforts to champion regional interests through the legislative route show that the institution is beginning to demonstrate its strategic function as a representative of the regions. This was evident from the speech by DPD RI Speaker Sultan Baktiar Najamudin during the Joint Session of the DPR and DPD RI in Senayan, Central Jakarta, on Friday (14/8/2026).

According to him, the DPD is no longer merely criticising or evaluating the government, but is instead offering a constructive agenda that has subsequently received a response from the government. “In my view, this shows that the DPD is beginning to find its strategic position,” said Lucius in Jakarta on Saturday (15/8/2026).

He cited the Archipelagic Regions Bill as the most concrete example. The struggle has been ongoing since 2017 and has now been included in the 2026 Priority National Legislation Programme (Prolegnas). Therefore, President Prabowo’s positive response to the agenda should be seen as an important development for central-regional relations.

“The DPD is not only speaking on behalf of the regions, but is also striving to ensure that regional aspirations are translated into national policy. If a struggle that has been ongoing for years finally receives a positive response from the government and is included in the priority legislative agenda, that is certainly an achievement worthy of appreciation,” said Lucius.