Asset Forfeiture Bill Targeted for Approval by December 2026: Five Crucial Issues Identified
The fate of the Asset Forfeiture Bill (RUU Perampasan Aset) is beginning to see clarity. This DPR-led initiative is promised to be passed no later than December 2026. This commitment is noteworthy, as the regulation is one of the legal instruments most anticipated by the public in the effort to combat economic crimes.
Oce Madril, a legal expert from Gadjah Mada University (UGM), assesses that procedurally, the Asset Forferess Bill could very well be passed this year. This is supported by the bill’s status within the 2026 National Legislative Program (Prolegnas) Priority. Furthermore, Commission III of the DPR has been observed conducting intensive discussions on the material, involving various elements ranging from academics to legal practitioners.
“The challenge is not merely the certainty of the ratification timeline, but ensuring that the substance of the Bill aligns with the constitution and public expectations,” said Oce Madril. He emphasised that although Article 28G of the 1945 Constitution guarantees the protection of property, such protection is void if the wealth is obtained illegally.
According to Oce Madril, there are five main points being scrutinised in the discussion of this Bill to ensure it remains within the corridor of fair law. The significant potential for recovering state losses serves as a strong reason why an asset management agency must be established professionally and audited strictly. This is particularly relevant given the data on asset recovery from corruption crimes in recent years, though it is noted that these figures only stem from corruption and do not yet include other crimes such as narcotics, online gambling, illegal mining, and illegal logging.
Oce Madril concluded that the presence of the Asset Forfeiture Bill will provide a strong legal foundation for the state to pursue wealth derived from crime more effectively and accountably. Soedeson emphasised that the Indonesian constitution upholds the principle of equality before the law.
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the Government support the passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill. The DPR targets completion by 15 December 2026, utilising a Non-Conviction Based (NCB) mechanism. The Chairman of Commission III of the DPR, Habiburokhman, revealed that the reason for the slower discussion process of the Asset Forfeiture Bill compared to other regulations is due to its novel concept.