30-3-2024 (JAKARTA) Indonesia’s Law and Human Rights Minister, Yasonna Laoly, hailed the recently enacted extradition treaty with Singapore as a significant milestone achieved through diplomatic endeavours. Laoly described the treaty, which came into effect on March 21, 2024, as a historic legal accomplishment reflecting Indonesia’s diplomatic success.
Highlighting the significance of the treaty, Laoly noted that Singapore had previously established similar agreements only with select entities such as the United States, Germany, China’s Hong Kong, and Commonwealth nations. He stressed Indonesia’s need to formulate such a treaty with Singapore, considering its status as a prominent global economic hub.
The treaty, signed in Bintan District, Riau Islands Province, on January 25, 2022, was ratified by Indonesia through Law No. 5 of 2023. It marks Indonesia’s 13th applicable extradition agreement, following treaties with countries including Malaysia, the Philippines, and Australia.
Laoly emphasized that the treaty strengthens the legal cooperation commitments between Indonesia and Singapore, facilitating the extradition of criminal fugitives between the two nations. He also highlighted the role of the ASEAN Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty in enhancing various forms of legal cooperation, including criminal asset confiscation and the pursuit of criminals.
