Government: Police Act Over Two Decades Old Requires Modernisation

JAKARTA — Minister of Law and Human Rights Supratman Andi Agtas said the Police Act of 2002, which has been in force for over two decades, needs to be updated in line with legal developments, societal needs, advancements in science and technology, transnational crime trends, and other contemporary security threats. He made the statement during a meeting at Commission III of the House of Representatives in Senayan, Jakarta, on Monday, 25 May 2026.

He added that the Police Act also requires updating due to legal developments, societal needs, scientific and technological advancements, transnational crime trends, and other contemporary security threats.

‘This constitutional mandate underpins the state’s responsibility to continuously strengthen the police institution to carry out its core duties professionally, cleanly, and accountably amid increasingly complex security challenges,’ Supratman said.

Supratman stressed that the draft Police Act would strengthen the institutional governance of the Bhayangkara Corps by reinforcing transparency, accountability, and human rights protections in all police operations and authorities.

Internal oversight will be strengthened through investigative supervision, inspectorate, professional standards, and security functions.

‘Strengthening internal oversight through investigative supervision, inspectorate, professional standards, and security functions, including the use of technology and scientific knowledge in policing and security, is a crucial instrument for establishing a modern and fair police force,’ Supratman said.

Meanwhile, Supratman noted that the government also highlighted strengthening the National Police Commission (Kompolnas) in the draft Police Act.

‘Furthermore, enhancing the National Police Commission through open, transparent, and participatory member selection will optimise external oversight functions,’ he added.