Jakarta. Indonesia boasted its brand new Criminal Code when it made its debut as the UN Human Rights Council’s president on Monday.

Representatives of countries had taken turns to address the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council in the body’s Geneva headquarters that day. In the first-ever session presided over by Indonesia, Foreign Minister Sugiono told the forum that Jakarta remained committed to promoting human rights, as it teamed up with domestic institutions. As proof of this commitment, the populous Indonesia has made some legal reforms, namely a penal code that replaced the criminal law that dates back to the Dutch era. 

“Indonesia has undertaken legal reforms through the adoption of a new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. These reforms not only affirm our legal sovereignty, but also strengthen the balance between order, liberty, and prosperity,” Sugiono said.

He stated: “Indonesia’s presidency is guided by the simple belief that credibility begins at home, but responsibility extends globally.”

The penal code had only entered into force in early January, but its provisions had already caught international attention even years prior. 

Some of the noteworthy articles include how the upgraded document criminalizes defamation against the president. Its legal proceedings can only take place if the offended party lodges a complaint.

Cohabitation and sex outside marriage are now punishable by imprisonment or a fine, but only close family members of those involved can bring charges.

Indonesia now requires protesters to notify authorities of their rallies. Failure to do so — including actions that are perceived to create chaos — will put the demonstrators in the face of a six-month jail time or a fine of up to Rp 10 million or nearly $595, according to the code.

Sugiono’s seven-minute speech mainly encompassed promises to safeguard human rights, including in the conflict-struck Myanmar and Palestine. The minister also unveiled Indonesia’s plan to secure a seat in the council for the 2030-2032 term.

“Indonesia stands ready to work with all delegations as a platform for cooperation, not confrontation,” Sugiono said.

Under a rotational presidency system, the UN Human Rights Council lets countries representing a different regional group assume leadership. This year is the Asia-Pacific group’s turn to assume the role. Indonesia got picked as the sole candidate to become the council’s chair. Jakarta’s current membership term will also expire by the end of this year.

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