Legal Expert Praises BP BUMN Chief for Halting Case Against Elderly Mujiran
A correct and precise move, we must applaud it, it’s great, a good lesson for others,” Hibnu told reporters on Monday (25 May 2026).
Hibnu explained that Dony Oskaria’s action aligns with a penal process focused on corrective and restorative measures. He added that in this case, the elderly Mujiran should not have faced legal proceedings in the first place.
“I believe this is the right step to applaud, as current penal processes are moving towards rehabilitative, corrective, and restorative approaches. Especially since an elderly man taking leftover rubber sap is an act that shouldn’t have required legal proceedings,” he said.
Hibnu further urged law enforcement to objectively assess legal cases in the context of societal circumstances. He stressed this to prevent prolonged legal processes.
“Law enforcers should consider the societal context, the perpetrator’s circumstances, and the nature of the crime objectively to avoid protracted legal proceedings,” he added.
Under Dony’s directive, Mujiran is freed.
It is known that Mujiran was prosecuted for collecting leftover rubber sap from a PTPN plantation in Lampung. Dony reportedly criticised the legal proceedings.
Dony reprimanded PTPN I’s management and demanded the immediate cessation of legal action against Mujiran.
PTPN I management subsequently announced the full termination of legal proceedings against Mujiran. The company implemented restorative justice mechanisms, resulting in Mujiran’s release.
PTPN affirmed its commitment to implementing the strategic policy direction of BP BUMN Chief and Danantara Asset Management COO Dony Oskaria. The company issued a formal apology and accepted moral responsibility for the public controversy.
“Through restorative justice, we are relieved that Mujiran, an elderly man, is now free and reunited with his family. On behalf of PTPN’s entire management, we extend our deepest apologies to Mujiran, his family, and the wider public,” stated PTPN management in a release on Sunday (24 May).
“Although the family-style resolution was initiated from the outset by parent company PTPN I, we acknowledge the rapid pace of information dynamics. We have learned that field officers must respond with greater sensitivity, responsiveness, and absolute prioritisation of human values,” they added.
PTPN I stated that restorative justice has always been an option for resolving disputes with local communities, including in Mujiran’s case. The restorative justice process proceeded alongside widespread media coverage.
PTPN I viewed the directives from BP BUMN and Danantara Asset Management not merely as administrative instructions, but as a crucial opportunity to recalibrate the company’s asset protection operational standards. As an extension of the state, asset protection must not be separated from social responsibility and empathy towards local communities.
As a tangible demonstration of their commitment and in line with BP BUMN’s follow-up instructions, PTPN is implementing a continuous assistance programme for Mujiran. Alongside basic needs support, management is also processing adaptable employment opportunities for him or his family members.
PTPN stated that this move ensures the company’s presence in the community is not merely as a business entity, but as a state instrument delivering inclusive and sustainable economic solutions.