DPR Commission XIII Chair's Remarks on Human Rights Law Revision
DPR Commission XIII Chair Willy Aditya stated that the revision of Law No. 39 of 1999 on Human Rights must focus on strengthening citizens’ rights protection, not become an arena for inter-agency power struggles. The NasDem Party politician’s remarks came amid controversy over the weakening of the National Human Rights Commission’s authority through the HAM law revision.
“The HAM law revision must serve the interests of citizens, not those of specific ministries or Komnas. We must focus on expanding promotion, protection, fulfilment, and respect for human rights,” Willy said in a written statement dated Saturday, 30 May 2026.
Willy said the existence of the Ministry of Human Rights and independent HAM bodies should bolster Indonesia’s human rights protections. He stressed that duties between the two institutions must be clearly defined to improve the quality of human rights safeguards for the public.
“If the HAM law revision is reduced to mere inter-agency power disputes, it would harm citizens. We must work together for the people, not for institutions,” Willy said.
He claimed that Commission XIII, as the DPR’s counterpart to the Ministry of Human Rights and Komnas HAM, would ensure the law revision strengthens promotion, protection, fulfilment, and respect for human rights in Indonesia.
Willy also assured the DPR would open public participation in the HAM law revision discussions, viewing societal input and debates as part of refining the draft law.
“I have followed media reports and informal discussions on the HAM law revision. Some aspects are progressive, while others need strengthening or modification. In the DPR, we will provide ample opportunities for public involvement,” he said.
Willy invited citizens, institutions, and individuals concerned about human rights issues to submit input to the DPR, whether via online channels or official committee meetings.
National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) Chair Anis Hidayah stated her institution was not involved in discussions on the Ministry of Human Rights’ draft revision of the HAM law. She said the 63-page draft did not reflect Komnas HAM’s input.
Anis noted that as an independent body specifically regulated under the HAM law, Komnas HAM has the most stake in any amendments due to implications for its position, functions, and authority.
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai denied claims of attempts to weaken Komnas HAM’s authority in the HAM law revision, stating the ministry’s draft actually strengthens the independent body’s position.
“It is impossible to diminish it. In fact, it is stronger—the Komnas HAM will have its own investigators,” he said when contacted on Thursday, 28 May 2026.
Pigai said the draft includes granting Komnas HAM the power to compel summonses. However, a clause was removed from the draft—the research and human rights education functions previously carried out by Komnas HAM under Article 89(1), which is one of Komnas HAM’s objections to the revision.
On this issue, Pigai explained that education functions are not Komnas HAM’s responsibility, citing global practices where governments handle such duties.
In a separate statement, Komnas HAM Chair Anis Hidayah said removing research and education functions would weaken the commission’s ability to monitor the state and foster critical awareness among officials. She stressed these roles are vital for preventing human rights violations, mapping root causes, and enhancing the capacity of law enforcement and the public.