21-8-2023 (JAKARTA) Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has urged member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to join forces in addressing cross-border crimes. In a video recording of his remarks at the 17th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transborder Crime (AMMTC) in Labuan Bajo on Monday, Jokowi emphasized the need for sustainable collaboration through information exchange, technology utilization, and capacity building to enhance the professionalism of law enforcement agencies.
Amidst the rapidly changing global landscape, Jokowi highlighted the importance of ASEAN’s preparedness to tackle various challenges, including the eradication of transnational crimes that pose significant threats to the region’s security and stability. With technological advancements, transnational crimes have grown in scale and complexity, requiring adaptive strategies to combat criminal acts such as terrorism, human trafficking, and the illicit narcotics trade.
Jokowi expressed his hope that the AMMTC would formulate a cooperative agenda encompassing strategic steps to ensure a safe, peaceful, and prosperous ASEAN region. The meeting, which will continue until Wednesday (Aug 23), serves as a platform to discuss and address pressing issues related to transborder crimes.
The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has prepared materials on domestic crimes for discussion during the 17th AMMTC. Polri has emphasized the importance of cooperation among ASEAN member countries to apprehend criminals who have fled from Indonesia to seek refuge abroad.
In addition to domestic crimes, Indonesia has proposed several topics for deliberation during the meeting, chaired by Indonesian National Police Chief General Pol. Listyo Sigit Prabowo. Strengthening cooperation and coordination in combating transnational crimes will be a focal point for ASEAN countries under Prabowo’s leadership.
