The delay in passing the bill has left Indigenous peoples vulnerable to further exploitation and harm. Without legal recognition and protection, many have faced criminal charges for defending their ancestral lands or practicing traditional governance systems that conflict with modern legal structures.

Syamsul Alam Agus, the Chairman of the Indonesian Indigenous Peoples Defense Association (PPMAN), underscored the urgent need for legal protection, pointing out that the absence of an Indigenous rights law has led to increased criminalization. Many Indigenous people have been arrested for attempting to protect their lands or practicing customary law.

Large-scale development projects have continued to seize Indigenous lands without proper consultation or consent, further undermining the rights of these communities. The lack of a clear legal framework has allowed these violations to persist unchecked, exacerbating tensions and perpetuating systemic injustices.

For millions of Indigenous peoples across Indonesia, the passing of the Indigenous Peoples Bill represents a critical step towards securing their rights and ensuring their cultural and environmental preservation. As the bill moves forward in the legislative process, advocates hope that the DPR will act swiftly to address these long-standing issues and deliver justice to Indigenous communities. (Uki Ruknuddin)

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