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Learning

Muhammadiyah Hosts Learning Event to Bolster Hydrometeorological Disaster Preparedness and Resilience Across Indonesia

by Ammar Sabilarrohman August 10, 2025

written by Ammar Sabilarrohman

JAKARTA – Muhammadiyah, one of Indonesia’s largest Islamic organizations, recently convened a pivotal Learning Event on its flood disaster response efforts in Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra. Held on Wednesday, April 15, the gathering served as a crucial forum for reflection, aiming to strengthen multi-stakeholder commitment towards enhancing preparedness and resilience in the face of increasingly complex hydrometeorological disasters. The event brought together key figures from Muhammadiyah’s disaster response apparatus and representatives from national disaster management bodies, underscoring the collaborative spirit essential for effective disaster mitigation in the archipelagic nation.

Indonesia, a vast archipelago situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire and straddling the equator, is inherently vulnerable to a myriad of natural hazards. Among these, hydrometeorological disasters—events caused by extreme weather and climate phenomena—pose a perennial and growing threat. Floods, landslides, and extreme droughts frequently afflict various regions, exacerbated by factors such as heavy rainfall, deforestation, land-use change, and the escalating impacts of climate change. Provinces like Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra are particularly susceptible due to their geographical characteristics, including mountainous terrains, extensive river systems, and coastal areas. The flood events that prompted Muhammadiyah’s comprehensive response in these regions are typical manifestations of Indonesia’s ongoing struggle with these environmental challenges, often resulting in significant displacement, loss of life, and widespread damage to infrastructure and livelihoods.

Muhammadiyah’s Proactive Stance and Swift Response

Budi Setiawan, Chairman of Muhammadiyah’s Disaster Response and Mitigation Agency (Lembaga Resiliensi Bencana – LRB PP Muhammadiyah), articulated that the recent disasters in Sumatra were not unforeseen. He emphasized that these phenomena had been predicted, making preparedness an indispensable cornerstone of effective disaster management. Under Setiawan’s leadership, Muhammadiyah, through its LRB, initiated a rapid and comprehensive response. This involved establishing coordination posts at various levels, from national headquarters down to local communities within the affected areas. Crucially, the organization mobilized a vast network of volunteers from across different regions, demonstrating its extensive reach and commitment to humanitarian aid. This cross-regional deployment of personnel and resources is a hallmark of Muhammadiyah’s disaster response strategy, enabling a more robust and timely intervention in emergencies.

Setiawan highlighted the critical importance of speed, accuracy, and robust coordination as pivotal factors in any disaster response operation. He acknowledged the invaluable support received from diverse stakeholders, including government agencies and international partners. This collaborative ecosystem, he noted, significantly bolstered efforts ranging from immediate rescue operations and the provision of essential health services to the establishment of temporary shelters for displaced populations. Beyond immediate relief, Muhammadiyah’s recovery efforts extended to ensuring the continuity of essential services. This included setting up emergency schools to prevent disruptions in education and deploying mobile health clinics to reach even the most isolated communities, thereby addressing both immediate and medium-term needs of the affected populations.

Government Acknowledgment and the Imperative of Collaboration

The Indonesian National Board for Disaster Management (BNPB), represented by its Director of Disaster Mitigation, Zainal Arifin, conveyed profound appreciation for Muhammadiyah’s consistent and substantial contributions to disaster management across the archipelago. Arifin lauded Muhammadiyah’s unwavering commitment, recognizing the organization as a vital strategic partner for the government in its overarching mission to build community resilience. He reiterated the sobering reality that hydrometeorological disasters continue to represent a primary threat to Indonesia, necessitating a concerted and collaborative effort from multiple parties for effective mitigation and response.

"Disaster management is a shared responsibility," Arifin affirmed during the event, underscoring the principle of ‘gotong royong’ (mutual cooperation) deeply embedded in Indonesian culture. He stressed the importance of documenting best practices derived from real-world responses and strengthening logistics distribution systems. These elements, he argued, are fundamental components of continuous learning and improvement within the national disaster management framework. The emphasis on learning from experience and refining operational procedures is vital for a country perpetually confronted by natural hazards, ensuring that future responses are even more efficient and impactful.

Learning from Experience: A Strategic Imperative

Hilman Latief, Treasurer General of PP Muhammadiyah, underscored the strategic significance of the Learning Event. He emphasized its role in fortifying preparedness efforts based on tangible, real-world experiences. Latief drew a parallel to significant flood events that had recently impacted other parts of Southeast Asia, preceding the Sumatra disasters. He posited that these regional occurrences should have served as crucial early warning signals, prompting an immediate escalation of preparedness measures within Indonesia. "When neighboring regions have already experienced major disasters, our preparedness should be immediately enhanced. This is an important lesson that early warnings must be met with concrete action," Hilman asserted, advocating for a proactive rather than reactive stance.

Latief critically observed that while many hydrometeorological disasters are, in fact, predictable, they are frequently not met with adequate preventive measures. He cautioned against the perils of failing to respond effectively to available data and early warnings, warning that such inaction could lead to collective failure, a scenario witnessed in several other countries. "We have data, we have warnings, but if there is no preventive action, the risk of disaster will only increase. This is what needs to be our collective attention," he emphasized, highlighting a crucial gap between knowledge and action that often plagues disaster management efforts. This disconnect underscores the need for robust institutional frameworks that can translate scientific predictions into actionable prevention strategies at all levels of governance and community engagement.

From Emergency Response to Systemic Resilience

Hilman Latief further elaborated on the necessity of bolstering institutional capacity and meticulously documenting acquired knowledge as essential safeguards for future disaster preparedness. He also championed the idea of positioning Indonesia’s extensive experience in disaster management as a global reference point, particularly through fostering regional collaboration within Southeast Asia. He noted a significant transformation within Muhammadiyah’s approach, evolving from its previous Lembaga Penanggulangan Bencana (LPB) – Disaster Management Agency – to the current Lembaga Resiliensi Bencana (LRB) – Disaster Resilience Agency. This strategic shift signifies a move beyond mere emergency response towards a more holistic and sustainable approach focused on building community resilience.

"Moving forward, we will not only talk about response and rehabilitation but also how to build a strong and systemic disaster risk reduction model," Hilman stated, outlining the LRB’s ambitious future direction. This new paradigm emphasizes proactive measures, community empowerment, and the integration of disaster risk reduction into development planning. He further highlighted Indonesia’s unique position, given its diverse range of natural hazards, to develop comprehensive approaches spanning mitigation, preparedness, and recovery, all underpinned by a continuous learning process. This comprehensive, integrated strategy is crucial for a nation that consistently ranks among the most disaster-prone globally.

Broader Implications and the Path Forward

The Learning Event not only served as a retrospective analysis of past responses but also cast a forward-looking gaze on the future of disaster management in Indonesia. The discussions illuminated several critical implications for national disaster policy and practice. First, it underscored the undeniable fact that hydrometeorological events are intensifying and becoming more unpredictable due to climate change. This necessitates a continuous re-evaluation of existing preparedness protocols and an increased investment in early warning systems and climate adaptation measures.

Second, the event highlighted the indispensable role of civil society organizations like Muhammadiyah. Their extensive grassroots networks, volunteer mobilization capabilities, and trusted community relationships make them invaluable partners to governmental bodies. The efficiency and reach demonstrated by Muhammadiyah in the Sumatra flood responses serve as a powerful testament to the efficacy of such partnerships.

Third, the emphasis on translating data and early warnings into tangible preventive actions is a profound takeaway. It challenges policymakers and communities alike to bridge the gap between scientific prediction and practical implementation, moving beyond passive reception of warnings to active, pre-emptive measures. This requires enhanced public awareness campaigns, community-based disaster risk reduction programs, and strengthened local governance structures capable of enforcing building codes and land-use regulations that minimize vulnerability.

Finally, Muhammadiyah’s evolution from a pure disaster response agency to a resilience-building entity reflects a broader, more mature understanding of disaster management. This paradigm shift, prioritizing long-term vulnerability reduction and community empowerment, aligns with international best practices and frameworks such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. By fostering a culture of resilience, Indonesia can not only mitigate the impact of future disasters but also transform vulnerable communities into self-reliant entities capable of recovering and adapting. The discussions at the Learning Event serve as a powerful reminder that while disasters are inevitable, their impact can be significantly reduced through foresight, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to learning and adaptation.

August 10, 2025 0 comment

Education and Careers

The Eternal Legacy of Ancient Rome: From the Banks of the Tiber to the Foundations of Western Civilization

by Layla Zulfa July 23, 2025

written by Layla Zulfa

The history of Ancient Rome stands as a testament to the enduring power of human organization, engineering, and political evolution, transforming from a small collection of huts on the Palatine Hill into a sprawling empire that dictated the course of Western history for over a millennium. At its zenith, the Roman Empire was not merely a military juggernaut but a sophisticated cultural engine that standardized law, language, and architecture across three continents. Today, the remnants of this civilization—from the ruins of the Colosseum to the Latin roots of modern languages—continue to serve as the bedrock of contemporary society, influencing everything from the legal systems of Europe to the democratic structures of the Americas.

The Geographical and Ethnic Foundations of the Latin People

The story of Rome begins in the Latium region of central Italy, a fertile plain situated south of the Tiber River. This area was inhabited by the Latins, an Italic tribe that settled in the region during the late Bronze Age, approximately 1000 BCE. The geography of Latium was uniquely suited for the birth of a superpower. Nestled between the Apennine Mountains and the Tyrrhenian Sea, the region benefited from volcanic soil that was exceptionally fertile, supporting a robust agricultural economy. The proximity to the Tiber River provided a reliable source of fresh water and a navigable route for inland trade, while the surrounding Seven Hills offered natural defensive positions against rival tribes.

Historical records and archaeological evidence suggest that the early Latins were primarily farmers and herders. However, their strategic location soon made them a target for the more advanced Etruscan civilization to the north. This constant threat of encroachment forced the early Roman communities to prioritize military readiness and defensive fortifications. This existential pressure is often cited by historians as the catalyst that forged the disciplined, martial character of the Roman people. Furthermore, Rome’s position in the center of the Mediterranean Sea eventually allowed it to dominate maritime trade routes, linking the markets of Africa, the Levant, and Europe.

Romawi Kuno: Sistem Pemerintahan, Budaya & Peninggalan

From Legend to Monarchy: The Birth of the Roman State

According to Roman mythology, the city was founded in 753 BCE by Romulus and Remus, twin brothers allegedly fathered by the god Mars and raised by a she-wolf. While historians view this tale as a foundation myth designed to instill a sense of divine destiny in the Roman populace, the legend reflects the violent and competitive nature of early Roman politics. Romulus, after slaying his brother in a dispute over the city’s boundaries, became the first king of Rome.

The Roman Monarchy (753–509 BCE) saw the city grow under the rule of seven legendary kings. During this period, the basic structures of Roman society were established, including the Senate—a council of elders—and the division of the population into social classes. However, the monarchy eventually devolved into tyranny. The final king, Lucius Tarquinius Superbus (Tarquin the Proud), was characterized by his cruelty and disregard for the Roman nobility. Following a public uprising sparked by a royal scandal involving the violation of the noblewoman Lucretia, the Roman people expelled the king and vowed never to be ruled by a monarch again. This transition marked the birth of the Roman Republic.

The Roman Republic: A Model of Tripartite Governance

In 509 BCE, Rome established a "Res Publica" (public matter), a system of government designed to prevent the concentration of power in a single individual. This era, lasting nearly five centuries, saw Rome expand from a regional power to the master of the Mediterranean. The Republic’s political system was a complex arrangement of checks and balances, divided into three primary branches:

The Magistrates: Serving as the executive branch, these elected officials managed the daily affairs of the state. The most powerful were the two Consuls, who commanded the army and presided over the Senate. To prevent tyranny, Consuls served only one-year terms and held the power to veto one another.
The Senate: Composed of approximately 300 to 600 members of the aristocracy (Patricians), the Senate acted as an advisory body. While they did not technically pass laws, their "senatus consultum" (decrees) carried immense weight in foreign policy and financial management.
The Assemblies and Tribunes: Representing the common people (Plebeians), these bodies had the power to elect magistrates and vote on legislation. The Tribunes of the Plebs were particularly significant, as they held the power to veto the actions of the Consuls and the Senate to protect the rights of common citizens.

This system proved remarkably resilient, allowing Rome to navigate internal social conflicts—known as the Conflict of the Orders—and external threats, such as the Punic Wars against Carthage. By the 2nd century BCE, Rome had defeated Hannibal, destroyed Carthage, and annexed Greece, effectively becoming the dominant power in the ancient world.

The Transition to Empire and the Rise of the Caesars

The very success of the Republic led to its downfall. The influx of wealth and slaves from conquered territories created vast economic inequality, while the military grew more loyal to individual generals than to the state. The 1st century BCE was marked by civil wars and political instability, culminating in the rise of Julius Caesar.

Julius Caesar, a brilliant general who conquered Gaul (modern-day France), used his military might to challenge the Senate. In 49 BCE, he crossed the Rubicon River, sparking a civil war that ended with his appointment as "Dictator Perpetuo" (Dictator for Life). While Caesar enacted popular reforms, such as the implementation of the Julian Calendar, his "iron-fisted" rule alienated the Senate. In 44 BCE, a group of conspirators led by Brutus and Cassius assassinated Caesar on the Ides of March, hoping to restore the Republic.

Instead, the assassination triggered further chaos, leading to the rise of Caesar’s grandnephew, Octavian. After defeating his rivals Mark Antony and Cleopatra, Octavian was granted the title "Augustus" by the Senate in 27 BCE. While he maintained the facade of Republican institutions, Augustus became the first Emperor of Rome, marking the beginning of the Roman Empire and the "Pax Romana"—a 200-year period of relative peace and stability.

Chronology of Major Roman Milestones

753 BCE: Legendary founding of Rome by Romulus.
509 BCE: Expulsion of Tarquin the Proud; establishment of the Republic.
264–146 BCE: The Punic Wars; Rome defeats Carthage to dominate the Mediterranean.
44 BCE: Assassination of Julius Caesar.
27 BCE: Augustus becomes the first Emperor; start of the Pax Romana.
80 CE: Completion of the Flavian Amphitheatre (Colosseum) under Emperor Titus.
313 CE: Emperor Constantine issues the Edict of Milan, legalizing Christianity.
330 CE: Constantine moves the capital to Byzantium (Constantinople).
476 CE: The fall of the Western Roman Empire to Germanic tribes.

Technological Prowess: Concrete, Aqueducts, and Roads

One of the most significant reasons for Rome’s longevity was its mastery of engineering. Roman engineers developed a form of volcanic concrete (opus caementicium) that was far more durable than modern equivalents, allowing them to build massive structures like the Pantheon and the Colosseum. The use of the arch and the dome revolutionized architecture, enabling the construction of wide, open interior spaces without the need for excessive pillars.

Furthermore, the Roman infrastructure was designed for efficiency. They constructed over 400,000 kilometers of roads, including 80,000 kilometers of stone-paved highways, to facilitate the rapid movement of legions and trade goods. The phrase "all roads lead to Rome" was a literal reality. To sustain their growing urban populations, they built sophisticated aqueducts that used gravity to transport millions of gallons of water daily into cities for public baths, fountains, and private homes.

Religion and the Christian Transformation

Initially, Roman religion was a polytheistic system heavily influenced by the Greeks. They worshipped a pantheon of gods who governed various aspects of life: Jupiter (the king of gods), Mars (war), Venus (love), and Neptune (the sea). Religious life was deeply intertwined with the state, and the "Pontifex Maximus" (High Priest) was a vital political office.

However, the 1st century CE saw the emergence of Christianity in the province of Judea. Despite early persecutions under emperors like Nero—who used Christians as scapegoats for the Great Fire of Rome in 64 CE—the faith spread rapidly through the empire’s road networks. By the 4th century, Emperor Constantine’s conversion and the subsequent Edict of Milan transformed Christianity from a persecuted sect into the official state religion. This shift ensured that even after the political collapse of the Western Empire, the Roman Catholic Church would remain the dominant cultural and moral authority in Europe for the next millennium.

Historical Implications and Modern Influence

The fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE did not mean the end of Roman influence. The Eastern Roman Empire, or the Byzantine Empire, survived for another thousand years until 1453. More importantly, the "Roman idea" persisted. The Latin language evolved into the Romance languages (Italian, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Romanian) and remains the foundation of scientific and legal terminology.

Roman law, particularly the "Corpus Juris Civilis" compiled under Emperor Justinian, forms the basis of the civil law systems used in most of Europe and Latin America today. The concept of a representative republic, the use of a senate, and the principle of "veto" power are all direct inheritances from the Roman political experiment.

In summary, Ancient Rome was more than just a period in history; it was a blueprint for modern civilization. Its ability to integrate diverse cultures into a single administrative framework, combined with its advancements in law and technology, created a legacy that remains unsurpassed. As modern societies navigate the complexities of governance and globalization, the rise and fall of Rome continue to offer essential lessons in power, pragmatism, and the enduring human drive for order and progress.

July 23, 2025 0 comment

Education and Careers

Yuhelson Inaugurated as Honorary Professor of Bankruptcy Law at Jayabaya University Marking a Milestone for Indonesian Legal Professionals

by Lina Hope July 22, 2025

written by Lina Hope

The Indonesian legal landscape witnessed a significant academic and professional milestone on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, as Yuhelson, the Secretary General of Peradi Profesional, was officially inaugurated as an Honorary Professor in the field of Bankruptcy Law at Jayabaya University. This prestigious appointment distinguishes Yuhelson as the first Secretary General of an advocate organization in Indonesia to achieve the rank of professor specifically specializing in bankruptcy law. The ceremony, held at the Auditorium Prof. Dr. H. Moeslim Taher in Jakarta, was attended by a distinguished gathering of state officials, leadership from the House of Representatives (DPR RI), and prominent members of the legal and academic communities.

The conferment of this honorary title reflects not only Yuhelson’s individual academic rigor but also a growing recognition of the need for specialized legal expertise in navigating Indonesia’s complex commercial environment. As the nation continues to integrate more deeply into the global economy, the nuances of insolvency, debt restructuring, and corporate governance have become paramount. Yuhelson’s elevation to the professorship is seen as a bridge between the practical world of legal advocacy and the theoretical frameworks of academic research.

A Landmark Achievement for the Advocate Profession

The inauguration was marked by a sense of pride within both the academic halls of Jayabaya University and the professional circles of Peradi Profesional. Vice Rector IV of Jayabaya University, Prof. Harris Arthur Hedar, emphasized that this achievement carries profound weight for the national advocate community. According to Prof. Harris, Yuhelson’s journey to the professorship serves as an inspiration for practitioners to pursue higher academic excellence.

"We are immensely proud of his success. He is the only Secretary General within an advocate organization to hold a professorship, specifically one earned in the specialized field of bankruptcy," Prof. Harris stated following the ceremony. He further noted that the title is far more than a mere academic accolade; it represents a tangible contribution to the evolution of Indonesian law. The recognition of a practitioner at this level suggests a shift toward valuing "clinical" expertise—where the experience of handling real-world cases informs the development of legal doctrine.

The Rector of Jayabaya University, Prof. Fauzie Yusuf Hasibuan, echoed these sentiments, reminding the newly minted professor that the title carries a heavy burden of responsibility. Prof. Fauzie remarked that an honorary professorship is not just a personal victory but a public mandate. The expectation is for the recipient to utilize their elevated platform to advance the frontiers of knowledge and provide meaningful contributions to the state, the society, and the legal system at large.

Scientific Oration: A Shift Toward Corporate Rescue

Central to the inauguration was Yuhelson’s scientific oration, which challenged the prevailing status quo of bankruptcy proceedings in Indonesia. His presentation, titled with a focus on the paradigm shift from liquidation to preservation, offered a critical analysis of Law No. 37 of 2004 on Bankruptcy and Suspension of Debt Payment Obligations (PKPU).

Yuhelson argued that the current application of bankruptcy law in Indonesia is often too heavily oriented toward liquidation—the process of dissolving a company’s assets to pay off creditors. He posited that such a rigid approach often fails to consider the broader socio-economic consequences, such as the loss of jobs, the termination of productive economic cycles, and the erosion of the national industrial base.

To counter this, Yuhelson introduced the concept of "Summum Bonum" (the highest good) as a foundational principle for modern bankruptcy law. He advocated for a "Corporate Rescue" orientation, where the primary goal of the legal process should be to save viable businesses that are experiencing temporary financial distress.

"The ideas and thoughts expressed in this oration analyze the shift in the paradigm of Indonesian bankruptcy law, moving from a liquidation orientation toward an orientation of business rescue," Yuhelson explained. He warned against the dangers of "Summum Ius Summa Iniuria"—a legal maxim suggesting that the strict application of the law can result in the greatest injustice. In the context of bankruptcy, this means that if the law is applied too inflexibly to force a company into closure, it may achieve "legal certainty" but at the cost of substantive justice and economic stability.

The Evolution of Bankruptcy Law in Indonesia

To understand the significance of Yuhelson’s specialized focus, it is necessary to look at the history of insolvency law in the country. Indonesia’s bankruptcy regulations have their roots in the colonial-era Faillissements-verordening. However, the modern framework was largely shaped by the 1998 Asian Financial Crisis. At that time, the Indonesian government, under pressure from international financial institutions, overhauled its bankruptcy laws to provide a more efficient mechanism for debt recovery, leading to the Government Regulation in Lieu of Law (Perpu) No. 1 of 1998, which later became Law No. 4 of 1998.

This was eventually replaced by the current Law No. 37 of 2004. While the 2004 Law introduced the Suspension of Debt Payment Obligations (PKPU) as a way to avoid bankruptcy, critics have long argued that the threshold for filing for bankruptcy in Indonesia remains too low. Currently, a debtor can be declared bankrupt if they have at least two creditors and have failed to pay at least one debt that is due and payable.

Yuhelson’s promotion of a "rescue" paradigm aligns with global trends seen in the United States (Chapter 11) and the United Kingdom (Administration), where the legal system provides a "breathing space" for companies to reorganize. His oration suggests that Indonesia must move away from a "punitive" view of insolvency toward a "restorative" one.

Data and Economic Implications

The call for a corporate rescue paradigm is supported by recent economic data. In the years following the global pandemic, Indonesia saw a significant uptick in PKPU and bankruptcy filings. According to data from various District Courts (PN) across major cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Medan, the number of petitions has remained high as businesses struggle with supply chain disruptions and fluctuating interest rates.

If the legal system defaults to liquidation, thousands of employees face immediate termination. By contrast, a successful corporate rescue—facilitated by a mediator or a flexible legal framework—allows the company to continue as a going concern, preserving tax revenue for the state and maintaining employment. Yuhelson’s emphasis on "substantive justice" suggests that the law must serve the economy, not just the creditors’ immediate desire for asset distribution.

Professional analysts suggest that a more robust corporate rescue framework could also improve Indonesia’s "Ease of Doing Business" ranking, specifically in the "Resolving Insolvency" category. Investors are generally more confident in jurisdictions where there is a clear, predictable, and fair path to restructuring rather than a quick path to dissolution.

Institutional and Political Support

The presence of DPR RI leadership and state officials at the inauguration underscores the political relevance of Yuhelson’s academic contribution. Bankruptcy law is frequently a subject of legislative debate, with ongoing discussions regarding the potential amendment of Law No. 37 of 2004. Yuhelson’s new role as an Honorary Professor places him in a strategic position to advise policymakers on these reforms.

Members of the legal community have reacted positively to the news. Many practitioners believe that having a high-ranking official from an advocate organization like Peradi Profesional in an academic leadership role will help bridge the gap between "law in books" and "law in action." It provides a platform for practitioners to voice the practical difficulties they face in courtrooms and during creditor meetings, ensuring that future legislation is grounded in reality.

Future Outlook and Academic Responsibility

As Yuhelson begins his tenure as an Honorary Professor, his focus is expected to remain on the refinement of the "Summum Bonum" concept within the Indonesian judiciary. His appointment is likely to spark further research at Jayabaya University and other institutions into the intersection of philosophy, economics, and commercial law.

For Jayabaya University, the appointment strengthens its Faculty of Law’s reputation as a center for specialized legal studies. By honoring a practitioner who has spent years at the forefront of the advocate profession, the university signals its commitment to an education system that is both theoretically sound and practically relevant.

In conclusion, the inauguration of Prof. Yuhelson represents a pivotal moment for Indonesian bankruptcy law. By advocating for a shift from liquidation to corporate rescue, he is challenging the legal community to view insolvency not as an end, but as a potential turning point for business rehabilitation. As the first Secretary General of an advocate organization to reach this academic height in this specific field, his journey reflects the maturing of the Indonesian legal profession and its increasing influence on the nation’s economic and social development. The responsibility now lies in translating these scientific orations into legislative reality and judicial practice, ensuring that the law truly serves the "highest good" for the Indonesian people.

July 22, 2025 0 comment

Education and Careers

Understanding the Global Threat of Nipah Virus and the Comprehensive Strategies for Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention

by Siti Muinah July 21, 2025

written by Siti Muinah

Over the past two decades, the global health landscape has been increasingly defined by the rise of emerging infectious diseases, a category of illnesses that pose significant challenges to international biosecurity and public health infrastructure. These diseases are characterized by their appearance in a population for the first time or by a rapid increase in their incidence or geographic range. Among these threats, the Nipah virus (NiV) has emerged as a particularly formidable pathogen, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) and national health ministries, including the Indonesian Ministry of Health (Kemenkes RI), to classify it as a top-priority research and surveillance target. As of 2023, the WHO includes Nipah virus on its blueprint list of priority diseases—a list of nine pathogens that represent the greatest public health risk due to their epidemic potential and the lack of sufficient countermeasures.

The Biological Profile and Pathogenesis of Nipah Virus

The Nipah virus is a highly pathogenic ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus belonging to the genus Henipavirus within the Paramyxoviridae family. It is closely related to the Hendra virus, another zoonotic pathogen. NiV is primarily characterized as a zoonotic agent, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans. The natural reservoirs for the virus are fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family, specifically those in the Pteropus genus. These bats carry the virus without showing clinical signs of illness, allowing the pathogen to persist in the environment and occasionally spill over into other species.

Transmission to humans occurs through several distinct pathways. Direct contact with infected animals, such as bats or intermediate hosts like pigs, remains a primary route of infection. In the initial outbreaks, pigs acted as an amplifying host, becoming infected after consuming fruit contaminated by bat saliva or urine. Humans then contracted the virus through close contact with the infected pigs’ respiratory droplets or tissues. However, in subsequent outbreaks, particularly in South Asia, transmission has occurred through the consumption of raw date palm sap contaminated with the excreta of infected fruit bats.

Crucially, the Nipah virus has also demonstrated the capacity for human-to-human transmission. This typically occurs in healthcare settings or among family members caring for an infected individual, primarily through direct contact with infected secretions or bodily fluids, including saliva and urine. The virus’s ability to infect a wide array of cell types—including those in the respiratory, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems—contributes to its high virulence. Once inside the human body, the virus targets the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels and the neurons in the brain, often leading to severe systemic complications and life-threatening encephalitis.

A Historical Chronology of Nipah Outbreaks

The history of the Nipah virus is marked by sudden, devastating outbreaks that have underscored the vulnerability of agricultural and rural communities. The virus was first identified in 1998 during a massive outbreak among pig farmers in the Perak, Negeri Sembilan, and Selangor states of Malaysia. This initial event was catastrophic; of the 265 human cases reported, 105 individuals lost their lives, resulting in a case fatality rate of nearly 40 percent. The economic impact was equally staggering, as the Malaysian government was forced to cull over one million pigs to halt the spread of the virus, effectively decimating the nation’s swine industry.

In 1999, the virus crossed international borders into Singapore. This spillover was linked to the importation of infected pigs from Malaysia, primarily affecting abattoir workers. While the Singaporean outbreak was smaller in scale, it highlighted the risks associated with the international trade of livestock and the speed at which zoonotic diseases can travel.

Since 2001, the geographic focus of Nipah outbreaks has shifted to Bangladesh and India. In Bangladesh, the virus has become a seasonal threat, with outbreaks occurring almost annually. Between 2001 and 2021, the country reported five major clusters of infection. Unlike the Malaysian outbreak, the primary driver in Bangladesh has been the consumption of raw date palm sap. In India, the state of Kerala has faced multiple recurrences, most notably in 2018 and 2023. These South Asian outbreaks have been characterized by significantly higher fatality rates, often exceeding 70 percent, and a higher frequency of human-to-human transmission.

Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Challenges

The clinical presentation of Nipah virus infection is notoriously varied, making early diagnosis exceptionally difficult. In the initial stages, the symptoms are often non-specific and easily confused with more common illnesses such as influenza, malaria, or dengue fever. Patients typically present with a "prodromal" phase characterized by high fever, intense headache, myalgia (muscle pain), sore throat, and persistent vomiting. Some individuals may also experience profound lethargy and dizziness.

As the disease progresses, the symptoms become increasingly severe. The respiratory system is often the first to fail, with patients developing atypical pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This manifestation requires intensive care and mechanical ventilation, though even with such interventions, the prognosis remains guarded.

The most dreaded complication of NiV is the development of acute encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain. The neurological symptoms of Nipah encephalitis are harrowing: patients may experience acute disorientation, severe confusion, altered consciousness, and seizures. In many cases, this rapidly progresses to a coma within 24 to 48 hours. Furthermore, survivors of the acute phase may suffer from long-term neurological sequelae, such as persistent convulsions or personality changes. There are also documented cases of "latent" or "relapsed" encephalitis, where the virus remains dormant in the body and causes a lethal brain infection months or even years after the initial recovery.

The Indonesian Context and National Preparedness

While Indonesia has not yet recorded a confirmed human case of the Nipah virus, the nation remains on high alert due to its geographic proximity to Malaysia and the presence of Pteropus bat populations across the archipelago. The Indonesian Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has proactively issued circulars and guidelines to regional health departments and port health authorities to strengthen surveillance and early detection mechanisms.

The Indonesian government’s strategy focuses on three main pillars: border control, laboratory capacity building, and public education. Given that Nipah is a transboundary threat, health screenings at international airports and seaports have been intensified, particularly for travelers coming from countries with active or recent outbreaks. The DPR (House of Representatives) has also called for increased investment in diagnostic facilities, ensuring that regional laboratories are equipped with Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) capabilities to identify the virus quickly.

Indonesian health officials emphasize that the lack of reported cases does not equate to a lack of risk. The "One Health" approach—which recognizes that the health of people is closely connected to the health of animals and our shared environment—has been integrated into Indonesia’s infectious disease response framework. This involves cross-sectoral collaboration between the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture, and environmental agencies to monitor bat colonies and livestock health.

Prevention and Risk Mitigation Strategies

The global medical community currently faces a significant hurdle: there are no approved vaccines or specific antiviral treatments for the Nipah virus. Treatment is limited to intensive supportive care to manage respiratory and neurological complications. In the absence of a cure, prevention through risk factor control is the only viable defense.

Public health organizations, including Kemenkes RI, have outlined several critical preventive measures:

Animal Hygiene and Livestock Management: In areas where the virus is endemic or where fruit bats are present, pig farms must be managed with strict biosecurity protocols. This includes preventing bats from roosting near pig pens and ensuring that pig feed is not contaminated by bat droppings or saliva.
Food Safety: Consumers are urged to thoroughly wash and peel fruits before consumption. In regions like South Asia, the consumption of raw date palm sap is strongly discouraged unless it has been boiled or treated to kill the virus.
Infection Control in Healthcare: Because human-to-human transmission is a significant risk, healthcare workers must adhere to stringent infection prevention and control (IPC) measures. This includes the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks, gloves, and gowns, when treating patients with suspected or confirmed NiV.
Community Awareness: Educating the public about the signs and symptoms of the virus and the risks of contact with bats or sick animals is essential for early reporting and containment.

Analysis of Implications and Future Outlook

The threat posed by the Nipah virus extends beyond the immediate loss of life. The economic implications are profound, as evidenced by the billion-dollar losses in the Malaysian agricultural sector during the 1990s. For a country like Indonesia, which has a significant agricultural base, an outbreak could disrupt food supply chains and international trade.

Furthermore, the rise of Nipah virus cases is often linked to environmental changes. Deforestation, urbanization, and climate change have altered the natural habitats of fruit bats, forcing them into closer proximity to human settlements and livestock. This increased interaction facilitates "zoonotic spillover" events. Consequently, managing the Nipah virus is not merely a medical challenge but an environmental and ecological one.

As the international community looks toward the future, the development of an effective vaccine remains a top priority. Several candidates, including mRNA-based vaccines, are currently in various stages of clinical trials. Until these are available, global health security depends on robust surveillance, rapid diagnostic capabilities, and transparent international cooperation. The proactive stance taken by Indonesia and its neighbors serves as a vital component of the regional defense against a pathogen that the WHO rightly considers one of the world’s most dangerous emerging threats. In an interconnected world, the containment of the Nipah virus is a collective responsibility that requires constant vigilance and scientific innovation.

July 21, 2025 0 comment

Education and Careers

RI Gencar Dedolarisasi Sejak 2025, Transaksi Mata Uang Lokal Naik 2 Kali Lipat ke Rp434,8 Triliun

by Siti Muinah July 20, 2025

written by Siti Muinah

Indonesia has significantly intensified its strategic shift away from the United States dollar, marking a historic milestone in its de-dollarization journey as Local Currency Transactions (LCT) surged to USD 25.6 billion by the end of 2025. This figure represents a remarkable 100 percent increase compared to the previous year, signaling a robust transition in how Southeast Asia’s largest economy conducts international trade and financial settlements. The total transaction value, equivalent to approximately Rp434.8 trillion based on an exchange rate of Rp16,984 per USD, underscores the growing confidence of market participants in utilizing the Indonesian Rupiah and the currencies of key partner nations for cross-border activities.

The Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, emphasized that this achievement serves as a foundational pillar for national economic stability heading into 2026. By reducing the systemic dependence on the US dollar, Indonesia is positioning itself to better withstand global monetary shocks and exchange rate volatility. The adoption of LCT is no longer merely a policy experiment but has evolved into a mainstream financial practice that provides tangible value-added benefits to the international trade sector, particularly in terms of efficiency and cost reduction for exporters and importers.

The Evolution of Local Currency Transactions in Indonesia

The journey toward de-dollarization in Indonesia has been a multi-year effort spearheaded by Bank Indonesia in collaboration with the central banks of neighboring countries and major trading partners. The LCT framework, formerly known as Local Currency Settlement (LCS), was designed to facilitate the use of local currencies for bilateral trade and direct investment. This mechanism allows businesses to settle transactions without having to convert their funds into US dollars first, thereby eliminating the double conversion costs and the risks associated with the fluctuation of the greenback.

In 2025, the scope of these transactions expanded significantly. According to Minister Airlangga, the primary drivers of this growth were Indonesia’s key trading partners, including Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and China. These nations have not only integrated their banking systems to support LCT but have also embraced digital payment innovations. One of the most visible successes in this initiative has been the implementation of the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) for cross-border payments, which allows Indonesian travelers and businesses to make payments in their own currency while abroad, and vice versa.

The rapid adoption in 2025 was facilitated by the National Task Force for Local Currency Transactions, a body established to harmonize regulations and promote the use of the Rupiah in international forums. This task force includes representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Financial Services Authority (OJK), ensuring a synchronized approach across all levels of government and the financial industry.

A Chronology of Strategic Milestones

The path to the USD 25.6 billion milestone in 2025 was paved by a series of strategic agreements and technological deployments over the preceding decade.

2018–2020: The Foundation Phase. Indonesia initiated LCS agreements with Thailand and Malaysia, focusing primarily on trade settlements. These early stages were characterized by limited volume but served as a proof of concept for the feasibility of non-dollar settlements in the ASEAN region.
2021: Expansion to Major Economies. A significant turning point occurred when Japan joined the framework. As one of Indonesia’s largest investors and trade partners, the inclusion of the Japanese Yen provided the liquidity and scale necessary to move the needle on de-dollarization.
2022–2023: The Digital Integration. During its G20 Presidency and ASEAN Chairmanship, Indonesia pushed for the Regional Payment Connectivity (RPC) initiative. This period saw the launch of cross-border QRIS with Thailand and Malaysia, followed by pilot projects with Singapore.
2024: Mainstreaming and China’s Integration. The full integration of the Chinese Yuan (CNY) into the LCT framework significantly boosted transaction volumes, given that China is Indonesia’s largest trading partner. By the end of 2024, transactions had reached roughly USD 12.8 billion.
2025: The Leap to USD 25.6 Billion. The doubling of the transaction value in 2025 was driven by increased participation from the private sector, specifically the manufacturing and mining industries, which began settling long-term contracts in local currencies.

Supporting Data and Economic Performance

The surge to USD 25.6 billion in LCT volume reflects a broader trend of diversification in Indonesia’s foreign exchange reserves and trade settlement methods. Data from the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs indicates that the number of "Appointed Cross Currency Dealers" (ACCD)—banks authorized to facilitate these transactions—grew by 30 percent in 2025. This expansion in the banking network ensured that even small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) could access the benefits of LCT.

In terms of regional breakdown, transactions with China and Japan accounted for the largest share of the USD 25.6 billion total, driven by industrial imports and infrastructure financing. Meanwhile, transactions with ASEAN partners like Thailand and Malaysia saw the highest growth in the retail and tourism sectors, largely fueled by the seamless integration of QRIS.

Furthermore, the stability of the Rupiah throughout 2025 was partly attributed to the reduced demand for US dollars for trade settlements. By settling USD 25.6 billion in local currencies, the Indonesian economy effectively reduced its "dollar-hunger," allowing Bank Indonesia to maintain more robust foreign exchange reserves to defend the currency against speculative attacks.

Official Responses and Policy Directions

The government’s optimism regarding the future of LCT is echoed by various high-ranking officials. Ferry Irawan, the Deputy for Coordination of State-Owned Enterprises, Research, and Innovation at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, noted that the trend observed in early 2026 remains highly positive. He highlighted that LCT has shown a consistent upward trajectory not only in value but also in market participation and adoption rates.

"The consistency we see in the first quarter of 2026 suggests that the market has moved beyond the ‘trial’ phase. Businesses now view LCT as a more efficient and stable way to conduct international business," Irawan stated. He added that the government is now looking to expand the framework to include more complex financial instruments beyond trade and direct investment, such as government bonds and interbank lending.

The Ministry of Finance has also signaled its support by providing fiscal incentives for companies that actively use LCT for their export-import activities. These incentives are designed to offset any initial administrative costs associated with switching from dollar-based accounting to multi-currency frameworks.

Analysis of Implications for the National Economy

The shift toward de-dollarization carries profound implications for Indonesia’s long-term economic resilience. First and foremost is the mitigation of "imported inflation." When the US dollar strengthens globally, countries dependent on the dollar for trade often see the prices of imported goods rise, leading to domestic inflation. By using local currencies, Indonesia can bypass the volatility of the dollar-Rupiah exchange rate for a significant portion of its imports.

Secondly, the LCT framework strengthens regional economic integration. As ASEAN members and major Asian economies move toward a unified local currency settlement system, the region becomes less susceptible to the monetary policy shifts of the US Federal Reserve. This "de-coupling" allows Asian central banks to tailor their interest rate policies more closely to domestic needs rather than being forced to follow the Fed to prevent capital flight.

However, challenges remain. For LCT to reach its full potential, there must be sufficient liquidity in the local currency markets of partner countries. For instance, an Indonesian exporter holding South Korean Won needs a deep and liquid market to utilize or convert those funds without significant slippage. Analysts suggest that the next phase of Indonesia’s de-dollarization will require deeper integration of financial markets, including the development of hedging instruments in local currencies.

Future Outlook: Beyond 2026

As Indonesia moves further into 2026, the government aims to expand the LCT framework to include more countries in the Middle East and Europe. There are ongoing discussions about establishing similar settlement mechanisms with the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, which would be particularly impactful for energy imports and the financing of religious tourism (Hajj and Umrah).

The success of the 2025 milestone has also positioned Indonesia as a leader in the global de-dollarization movement among emerging markets. By demonstrating that a large, developing economy can successfully halve its reliance on the dollar for bilateral trade within a few years, Indonesia provides a blueprint for other nations seeking to safeguard their economic sovereignty.

The ultimate goal, as envisioned by the National Task Force, is a diversified global monetary system where the Rupiah plays a central role in regional trade. With the momentum gained from the USD 25.6 billion achievement, Indonesia is well on its way to transforming its financial landscape, ensuring that its economic future is determined by domestic productivity and regional cooperation rather than the fluctuations of a single foreign currency.

July 20, 2025 0 comment

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