New Criminal Procedure Code Officially Ratified, Legislation Deemed to Comply with Constitutional Mechanisms
Jakarta – The government emphasized that the ratification of the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) is a strategic step in updating the national criminal procedure framework. This update is designed to ensure full synchronization with the Criminal Code (KUHAP), which will come into effect on January 2, 2026, thus ensuring consistency between substantive and formal law. The government stated that the entire legislative process followed constitutional mechanisms, involving intensive discussions with the House of Representatives (DPR) and input from various stakeholders.
Minister of Law (Menkum), Supratman Andi Agtas, believes that Indonesia needs a criminal procedure system that can keep up with current developments. He emphasized that the revision of the KUHAP is not merely a technical update, but part of the process of modernizing the national legal system. According to him, this update demonstrates the state’s responsibility to provide stronger legal certainty for citizens.
“The public needs legal certainty that is modern, fair, and relevant to global developments. The KUHAP update is an important foundation for ensuring our legal process is more transparent and supports justice,” said Supratman.
The government views the revision of the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) as an urgent need to address technological developments, societal dynamics, and a number of Constitutional Court decisions that require adjustments. In addition to strengthening human rights protection, this update is expected to improve the quality of law enforcement, from the investigation stage to the trial. The government also reaffirmed its commitment to promptly finalizing implementing regulations so that the implementation of the KUHAP can proceed smoothly.
The Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, viewed the revision of the KUHAP as an important milestone in national legal reform. She assessed that the lengthy deliberation process between the DPR and the government demonstrated a shared commitment to ensuring that the norms drafted truly address the needs of Indonesia’s criminal justice system. Puan also emphasized the importance of public preparedness in understanding regulatory changes to avoid being easily influenced by disinformation.
“We urge the public not to be easily influenced by hoaxes or misleading narratives. The entire KUHAP legislative process has been carried out according to the mechanism, discussed openly, and taken into account extensive expert input,” she said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Law, Eddy O.S. Hiariej explained that the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) brings several significant reforms that strengthen restorative justice, restitution for victims, and protection for vulnerable groups. He stated that the updated articles have been consolidated with academics, civil society organizations, and law enforcement officials to ensure their relevance and effectiveness.
“These amendments contain substantive updates that are important for the future of criminal law. The new KUHAP places victims and vulnerable groups in a more protected position and ensures a more humane and balanced legal process,” said Eddy.
In this momentum of KUHAP reform, the government is inviting all elements of society to play an active role in supporting the process of modernizing the criminal justice system. Collaboration, participation, and public involvement are key to ensuring the implementation of the new KUHAP is more effective, transparent, and provides tangible benefits for justice in Indonesia.
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