DPR: Limited dual citizenship a breakthrough to strengthen global competitiveness
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Chair of Commission XIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), Dewi Asmara, has assessed that the proposed introduction of limited dual citizenship represents a strategic breakthrough to strengthen national competitiveness and optimise the contribution of the Indonesian diaspora.
“We in the DPR see this proposal as a step forward. President Prabowo has set the right direction by positioning the diaspora as strategic partners in development. This is not merely about citizenship status, but about how Indonesia wins global competition,” she said in a statement received in Jakarta on Tuesday.
Dewi explained that Indonesia has a diaspora estimated at 8–10 million people. They are spread across various countries, with many occupying important positions in the technology, research, health, education and business sectors.
According to her, limited dual citizenship can address this dilemma while opening opportunities for knowledge transfer, investment and the strengthening of public diplomacy.
“Many countries have already taken advantage of this potential, such as India with its Overseas Citizenship of India scheme and the Philippines with its dual citizenship policy for natural-born citizens. Indonesia must of course design a model that best suits the character of the nation and our national interests,” she added.
The legislator also proposed that, in the short term, the government optimise non-citizenship instruments such as a diaspora card, accelerated visa processing and investment incentives.
According to her, such measures can deliver quick benefits while a more comprehensive revision of Law Number 12 of 2006 on Citizenship is prepared.
“We want to ensure that this policy is not merely populist, but genuinely delivers tangible benefits for the Indonesian people. The DPR is ready to collaborate with the government, the diaspora and stakeholders to design the best policy. If it is seriously managed, this will become a positive legacy of President Prabowo’s administration,” she said.
The President said Indonesia has a diaspora whose members work as scientists, doctors, engineers, artificial intelligence experts, researchers, entrepreneurs, artists and even professional athletes.
According to Prabowo, some members of the diaspora have chosen another citizenship due to career needs, family considerations or their activities abroad.
“We must not force Indonesia’s best talent to choose between the opportunity to work globally and their ties to the homeland,” he said.
Prabowo said the government will propose amendments to the law to the DPR to open limited dual citizenship for individuals with exceptional talent who are deemed capable of contributing to the national interest.