Deradicalisation of Former Terrorist Inmates: Once Brandishing Weapons, Now Wielding Hoes

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - After taking up arms, they now raise hoes and palm oil. But not for the same purpose, but for the common welfare. This is the experience of several former terrorism prisoners in Subang, West Java. This story was told by the head of the West Java Regional Task Force for Densus 88 Anti-Terror, Kombes Poil Bogiek Sugiyarto to Kompas.com, on Wednesday (4/3/2026). “They are individuals who previously were directly involved in networks and terrorist acts, including DS, a former member of the Thamrin Bomb group who acted as an explosive device maker; FRR,” Bogiek said. Engaging private sector in Subang Regency, these former terrorists began to act as farmers, not only as individuals, but also involved in the local community. Bogiek said they are no longer viewed as figures who instil fear, but have begun to appear as part of the community contributing to real food security and social stability. “This story shows that change is always possible when there is space for guidance, ongoing mentoring, and constructive social acceptance,” he added. Entering farming after undergoing deradicalisation is a process of building a new identity through past experiences and different social environments. However, Bogiek said, the new way of building the identities of ex-prisoners is not widely applied in Indonesia. “From 1,397 ex-prisoners in Indonesia, only a small portion have been nurtured and empowered through the agricultural sector. After all, agriculture is an inclusive sector that can absorb labor and provide sustainable economic value,” he said. This will be contrary to extremist actions that arise due to economic pressures in meeting daily life. Then a new deradicalisation approach emerges, by giving a new social identity and also focusing on economic empowerment.