Indonesian lawmakers grill minister over last-minute budget request

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has reprimanded the Minister of Law and Human Rights, Yasonna Laoly, for abruptly proposing a significant budget increase during a committee meeting. The unexpected request for an additional Rp492.9 billion for the 2027 fiscal year, on top of the ministry's indicative ceiling of Rp728 billion, drew sharp criticism from lawmakers.

During the session, DPR Commission XIII Chairman Willy Aditya questioned the timing of the proposal, stating that such matters should be submitted before the meeting. "We have asked for good intentions. Why is it only submitted during the meeting? How will we discuss it?" Aditya remarked, emphasizing the need for proper procedure. He added, "Don't let a drop of milk spoil the whole jug."

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We have asked for good intentions. Why is it only submitted during the meeting? How will we discuss it? Don't let a drop of milk spoil the whole jug.

Minister Laoly intended to allocate the additional funds towards human rights enforcement (Rp224.9 billion) and management support (Rp267.9 billion). However, the commission decided to approve the portion for human rights promotion and enforcement but rejected the management support component.

Commission member Rieke Diah Pitaloka from the PDIP faction specifically criticized the composition of the proposed increase, noting that over half of the additional funds were earmarked for management support, which she argued contradicts the ministry's primary mandate. She pointed out that the ministry's core tasks, as outlined in regulations, involve handling complaints, defending, protecting, and rehabilitating victims of human rights abuses, and ensuring compliance.

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For the additional program of promotion and enforcement of human rights, we approve, but for management support, we do not approve. So, the middle ground is like that. Agreed? Well, this is because of our commitment.