20-2-2024 (JAKARTA) President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has commended the internal reforms undertaken by Indonesia’s Supreme Court (MA), aimed at upholding legal principles and ensuring the rule of law and good governance to enhance sustainable court performance.
Speaking at the 2023 Supreme Court Annual Report Special Session in Jakarta on Tuesday, President Jokowi stressed the significance of quality human resources (HR) for judges. This includes attributes such as integrity, professionalism, sensitivity, and a sense of justice within society. He emphasized the need for judges to stay updated on current developments, including advancements in science and technology.
Jokowi highlighted the importance of incorporating innovation into the reform process. He urged not only the adoption of new technology but also the development of a fresh perspective and sensitivity in resolving legal cases. The president suggested implementing a restorative justice system as a breakthrough in addressing legal issues.
Expressing the government’s appreciation for the Supreme Court’s innovations, Jokowi acknowledged efforts to accelerate legal transformation. This includes increased use of the e-court system and the development of an artificial intelligence-based Decision Support System (DSS), ensuring consistency in decisions by referring to previous rulings.
The president commended the Supreme Court’s commitment to public transparency, citing the publication of over 22 thousand decisions in an accessible decision directory.
“In 2023, the Supreme Court succeeded in concluding up to 99.47 percent of cases. This is good progress,” remarked Jokowi. However, he underscored that beyond case quantity, the quality of verdicts is crucial. Court decisions should offer a sense of justice, legal certainty, and contribute to the nation’s development towards a developed Indonesia.
Jokowi expressed hope that internal reforms within the Supreme Court would not only provide a sense of justice but also help conserve state assets, enhance community welfare, and contribute to Indonesia’s journey to becoming a high-income country.
The president thanked the Supreme Court for its continuous efforts in self-improvement and the implementation of reforms, considering them integral to reinforcing the rule of law and good governance.
“The people have high expectations of judicial institutions. They are demanding guarantees of justice. They have also become more critical of the judicial process and more open in expressing their views,” stressed President Jokowi.
