MP Maruli Siahaan Urges Strengthening Human Rights Culture in Medan
Maruli Siahaan, a member of Commission XIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), has emphasised the importance of strengthening the understanding of the respect, protection, fulfilment, enforcement, and promotion of human rights (P5HAM) for the community in Medan, North Sumatra. He encouraged that human rights values should not merely remain legal concepts but should become embedded in daily life.
“P5HAM must become a culture in everyday life,” Maruli stated during a human rights socialisation event at the HKBP Perumnas Simalingkar Multipurpose Building in Medan on Saturday (1/8/2026). According to Maruli, the implementation of human rights begins with simple actions within one’s immediate environment. This includes non-discriminatory attitudes, avoiding the spread of slander, respecting differences, and protecting the personal data of others. He asserted that fair public services are a primary pillar in the enforcement of human rights.
He also highlighted that human rights must be realised concretely across various sectors, ranging from the family environment, educational institutions, and workplaces to places of worship and digital spaces. During the event, Maruli paid particular attention to the developments in digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI). While providing numerous benefits, he noted that these technologies bring new challenges to the protection of human dignity.
“The misuse of personal data, digital bullying, and the distribution of an individual’s identity for intimidation have the potential to damage a person’s honour and dignity,” he explained before approximately 350 participants. In addition to digital issues, the session covered fundamental rights such as education, health, decent work, and freedom of religion, with a primary focus on protecting vulnerable groups.
The event was also attended by Flora Nainggolan, Head of the Regional Office of the Ministry of Human Rights for North Sumatra and the Riau Islands, and Janpatar Simamora, Dean of the Faculty of Law at HKBP Nommensen University. Flora Nainggolan emphasised that cross-sector synergy is crucial in creating an ecosystem that respects human rights. “Collaboration between the government, the DPR RI, academics, and the community is necessary to build awareness and realise public services based on human rights,” she concluded.