Strengthening The Shield: How Indonesia's New Bill Reinvents Witness Protection

Jakarta — In a decisive move to fortify its justice system, Indonesia is overhauling the law governing its Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK). The revision, currently a priority in the 2025 National Legislation Program, is designed to address glaring operational vulnerabilities that have long hindered the agency's work. Lawmakers and the LPSK itself identify two of the most pressing needs: autonomy in security provision and a reliable mechanism for victim support, both of which are central pillars of the new bill.

A cornerstone of the proposed reform is the establishment of a specialized security and escort unit directly under the LPSK's command. Currently, the agency relies on the National Police for the physical protection of witnesses and victims, a arrangement that can lead to delays and logistical complications. A dedicated, in-house unit would allow for faster, more independent responses, particularly in sensitive cases involving politically or financially powerful actors where threats are most severe. This change is seen as critical for guaranteeing the safety that is the very foundation of effective witness testimony.

Parallel to the security upgrade is the pioneering initiative to create a "Perpetual Victim Fund." Managed directly by the LPSK, this fund is intended to provide immediate financial assistance and restitution to victims. The goal is to circumvent the slow, often uncertain process of securing court-ordered restitution, ensuring that victims receive timely support for medical care, psychological counseling, and other essential needs without having to wait for a trial's conclusion.

The push for these reforms comes from a stark assessment of on-the-ground realities. LPSK officials have testified that the existing law imposes unrealistic deadlines, such as requiring the agency to grant protection status within just seven days of an application—a timeframe often insufficient for thorough threat assessments and administrative checks. Furthermore, with only a central office in Jakarta and limited regional presence, the LPSK struggles to serve a vast archipelago, handling cases "from Sabang to Merauke".

Legislators acknowledge these challenges but are also urging careful implementation. During harmonization meetings, the Chairman of the Legislation Body, Bob Hasan, emphasized that while strengthening the LPSK is crucial, new regulations must be clear and pragmatic. "The optimization of LPSK's authority must be clear... so that the implementation does not become difficult," he stated, warning against creating layered, cumbersome rules. There is a concerted effort to ensure that expanded authority is matched with clear accountability and efficient processes.

The reform is strategically timed to align with a broader transformation of Indonesia's criminal laws. The recent passage of the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) makes modernizing the witness protection law not just beneficial but necessary for legal coherence. The new KUHAP introduces advanced concepts like Victim Impact Statements, which the LPSK must be equipped to facilitate.

By empowering the LPSK with its own security capabilities and financial tools, Indonesia aims to build a more resilient and responsive protection ecosystem. These institutional reinforcements are expected to directly combat the climate of fear and intimidation that can silence witnesses and derail prosecutions. The ultimate test of the new law will be its tangible impact in encouraging more victims and informants to come forward, thereby strengthening the rule of law and the integrity of judicial outcomes across the nation.

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Tag: Anti-intimidation Measures Legal Protection Reform LPSK Authority Security Unit LPSK Victim Fund Witness Protection Agency Indonesia