In the latest revision of the criminal code, Indonesian officials confirmed penalizing sex outside marriage. The crime is punishable with up to one year of jail time. Here’s more on the punishment and rules.
Indonesia revises its criminal code.
The Indonesian parliament is voting this month to adopt its new penal code that makes having sex outside marriage punishable by law. Additionally, criticizing the president and state institutions, and expressing opinions against the nation’s official ideology is also now prohibited. As per the most recent draft of the criminal code, sex outside marriage comes with the potential of one year of prison time. However, it can only be reported by certain people such as close relatives. On the other hand, the maximum punishment for insulting the president is three years. But, this charge may only be applied by the president.
More on the new law
It has been in work for years and is anticipated to be approved on December 15 as per Edward Omar Sharif Hiariej. Hiariej is the deputy justice minister of Indonesia. The crime is now punishable with up to one year of a jail sentence.
“We’re proud to have a criminal code that’s in line with Indonesian values,” stated Hiariej. Additionally, criticizing the president and state institutions, and expressing opinions against the nation’s official ideology is also now prohibited.
The first passing date was planned for 2019. However, the criminal code met with widespread opposition. Tens of thousands protested several regulations as they believe they will restrict civil freedoms. They were seen to be regulating free expression and morals in Indonesians. However, this time around, the administration hosted public consultations across the country for offering details about the modification. But, critics believe very little has been changed in the code since 2019.
