Megawati Remembers Foundations of Democracy, Emphasises Role of MK to KPK for the People
Former Fifth President of the Republic of Indonesia, Megawati Soekarnoputri, reminisced about her role in laying the foundations of the democratic and legal system in Indonesia, including the establishment of various strategic state institutions aimed at serving the interests of the people.
She conveyed this during her national oration at the inauguration of Arief Hidayat as Professor Emeritus in Constitutional Law at Borobudur University on Saturday, 2 May 2026.
“As the Fifth President of the Republic of Indonesia, I have laid the framework for a comprehensive democratic and legal system. During my leadership, the Constitutional Court (MK), Judicial Commission (KY), National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK), and Special Detachment 88 were born,” stated Megawati.
She emphasised that the formation of these institutions represents concrete efforts to ground Pancasila in state practices. Additionally, the implementation of direct presidential elections forms part of strengthening the legitimacy of national leadership to remain on the constitutional path.
Megawati reminded that a president must not open room for compromise on legal violations that could weaken national sovereignty. Therefore, the legal system must be maintained with integrity and courage.
On this occasion, Megawati also entrusted a message to the academic community to become “organic intellectuals” who dare to voice the truth. She emphasised five main principles in life: conviction, steadfastness, courage, patience, and truth.
“Use legal knowledge as a tool for liberation. Remember the principle of Satyam Eva Jayate; in the end, truth will prevail,” she said.
Megawati also extended appreciation to Prof. Arief Hidayat for his inauguration as Professor Emeritus. She regarded the thoughts of the former Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court as an important reminder that Indonesia’s rule of law must continue to be fought for to remain alive and supportive of the people.
“Congratulations to Prof. Arief Hidayat. May we all be able to keep the flame of Pancasila and the flame of justice burning towards a dignified future for the nation,” she concluded.
The event was also attended by several national figures and academics, including Saldi Isra, Mahfud MD, Yasonna Laoly, and Zudan Arif Fakrulloh. Also present were Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court Suhartoyo, General Secretary of the PDI-P Central Executive Board Hasto Kristiyanto, as well as party officials such as Ganjar Pranowo and Bintang Puspayoga.