Gerindra Says Dual Citizenship Proposal Shows Attention to Diaspora, Selection Will Be Strict
Jakarta, VIVA – Gerindra Party spokesperson Sugiat Santoso has assessed that the proposal for limited dual citizenship is a form of attention from President Prabowo Subianto towards the Indonesian diaspora, enabling them to contribute to the country without being constrained by citizenship status.
“The state must no longer force brilliant sons and daughters of the nation to choose between pursuing an international career and their love for the homeland,” Sugiat said in a written statement received in Jakarta on Sunday.
According to the Deputy Chairman of Commission XIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), the proposal is not intended to open dual citizenship broadly, but is aimed selectively at certain talents needed to support national development.
“The government will of course design regulations with a strict screening mechanism, integrity tests, and the determination of clear obligations without sacrificing sovereignty or national security,” he said.
Sugiat said a number of countries utilise their diaspora to regain human resources with specific expertise.
According to him, Indonesia also needs to provide space for accomplished diaspora members to contribute to strategic sectors without having to face a choice between an international career and ties with Indonesia.
“We respect the critical views of international law academics. Precisely because of that, this proposal is brought to the legislative arena to be deliberated together,” he said.
Sugiat said the discussion on amending Law No. 12 of 2006 on Citizenship of the Republic of Indonesia could also serve as a momentum to evaluate citizenship issues for children of mixed marriages.
He emphasised that the proposal still requires discussion between the government and the DPR through the mechanism of legislative formation.
“The government is not taking shortcuts. Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has affirmed that this process will be pursued through revision of Law No. 12 of 2006 together with the DPR RI,” he said.
Sugiat reiterated that the dual citizenship proposal is limited in nature and is not intended to apply generally.
According to him, the policy design also needs to consider aspects of security, integrity, loyalty to the state, as well as certain restrictions in accordance with the provisions of laws and regulations.
Previously, President Prabowo Subianto proposed changes to legislation to open the possibility of limited dual citizenship for certain talents who can contribute to national interests.