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Kemensos Provides Rp5 Million in Economic Empowerment Aid to Former Poso Terrorist Prisoners to Strengthen Family Resilience

by Layla Zulfa September 26, 2026

written by Layla Zulfa

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has taken a significant step toward long-term peace and reconciliation in Central Sulawesi by distributing financial assistance to former terrorism convicts. A total of 21 former prisoners, commonly referred to locally as eks napiter, received Rp5 million each to support and expand small-scale economic enterprises tailored to their individual skills, interests, and market demands.

The distribution of this financial aid was formally announced during a high-profile public forum known as the National Dialogue, held under the overarching theme "Strengthening Family Resilience and Independence of Former Terrorist Prisoners Post-Social Reintegration." Organized by the Directorate of Social Rehabilitation for Social Deviants and Victims of Trafficking (RSKPO) under the Ministry of Social Affairs, the event took place in Tamanjeka Hamlet, Masami Village, Poso Pesisir Sub-district, Poso Regency, Central Sulawesi.

This initiative is part of a broader, multidimensional strategy implemented by the Indonesian government to ensure that individuals returning to society after serving prison sentences for terrorism-related offenses can achieve genuine economic independence. By bolstering household income and stabilizing family finances, the Ministry aims to minimize the risk of recidivism, mitigate economic vulnerability, and foster a peaceful environment where social reintegration can succeed permanently.

A Symbolic Setting: Rebuilding Tamanjeka’s Social Fabric

Choosing Tamanjeka Hamlet as the venue for the National Dialogue carried profound symbolic and practical weight. Located in Poso Regency, Tamanjeka bears a heavy historical legacy, having been a focal point of past sectarian conflicts and extremist activities that deeply affected the local population. For decades, Poso struggled with communal violence and radical networks that left deep social scars, fractured community trust, and isolated the region economically.

By hosting the event in the heart of Tamanjeka, the Ministry of Social Affairs sought to facilitate direct engagement between former combatants, local community members, religious leaders, and government representatives. This inclusive approach is designed to mend historical fractures, break down social barriers, and promote mutual understanding. Rebuilding a community damaged by extremism requires more than just security measures; it demands active social healing, grassroots dialogue, and deliberate efforts to restore trust among neighbors.

During the dialogue, officials emphasized that sustainable peace cannot be achieved without addressing the root causes of radicalization, which often include social alienation, marginalization, and economic desperation. The presence of both former prisoners and local residents in a collaborative public forum underscored a shared commitment to turning the page on the region’s troubled past and building a resilient, cohesive community.

The Mandate of the Directorate of RSKPO: Healing Social Fractures

The Directorate of RSKPO plays a critical frontline role within the Ministry of Social Affairs. Its primary mandate involves social rehabilitation and psychological recovery for individuals and communities affected by severe social disruptions, including human trafficking, civil unrest, and violent extremism.

When extremist networks take root, they often tear apart the social fabric, severing community bonds and eroding foundational moral values. In response, the Ministry of Social Affairs acts as an agent of social recovery, deploying programs designed to restore social harmony and strengthen societal resilience against radical ideologies.

Addressing the gathering, RSKPO Director Rachmat Koesnadi highlighted the vital interplay between local wisdom and social resilience in navigating the rapid changes of the modern world. He noted that contemporary society faces massive socio-cultural transformations that continually shift worldviews, lifestyles, and interpersonal dynamics.

"Rapid social and cultural changes significantly impact people’s perspectives and ways of living, which not infrequently generates differences that can lead to friction and hostility," Koesnadi stated during his address. He warned that if such societal shifts are left unmanaged, they can rupture social ties among citizens, erode moral standards, and destroy public trust.

Koesnadi further explained that the financial assistance provided to the 21 former terrorism convicts is not merely a charitable handout, but a strategic investment in social stability. Economic empowerment serves as a practical bridge, allowing former inmates to support their families honorably while integrating smoothly into the legitimate economic life of their communities.

Chronology of the Reintegration and Empowerment Process

The journey of a former terrorism convict from judicial sentencing to full social reintegration is a complex, multi-stage process that requires close coordination among law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, social services, and civil society organizations.

Correctional Detention and Deradicalization: While serving sentences in various correctional facilities across Indonesia, inmates undergo structured deradicalization programs overseen by the National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) in collaboration with the Directorate General of Corrections. These programs focus on civic education, psychological counseling, and theological reorientation to counter extremist narratives.
Release and Initial Reintegration: Upon completing their sentences, former prisoners face the formidable challenge of returning to communities that may harbor lingering fear, suspicion, or resentment. Local authorities and social workers monitor their initial adjustment period to ensure personal safety and facilitate basic community acceptance.
Assessment of Economic Potential: Recognizing that financial instability is a major driver of recidivism, the Ministry of Social Affairs—through directorates like the RSKPO—conducts assessments to identify the vocational skills, entrepreneurial interests, and market opportunities available to each individual.
Targeted Financial Support and Training: The recent disbursement of Rp5 million per person represents a targeted intervention phase. Rather than providing generic aid, the funds are calibrated to support specific micro-enterprises chosen by the beneficiaries, ranging from agriculture and animal husbandry to small retail and trade.
Post-Disbursement Monitoring and Mentorship: Financial grants are paired with ongoing mentorship from social workers and local community leaders. This ensures that the capital is utilized effectively and that beneficiaries receive guidance on business management, financial literacy, and community relations.

Socio-Economic Implications and the Fight Against Recidivism

Criminological research and counterterrorism studies consistently demonstrate that economic vulnerability and social exclusion are primary risk factors for individuals slipping back into extremist networks. When former prisoners are released without marketable skills, employment opportunities, or financial support, they often find themselves alienated from mainstream society. In such vulnerable states, they may become susceptible to re-recruitment by underground radical cells that offer financial assistance and a sense of belonging.

By directly addressing the economic needs of former prisoners and their families, the Indonesian government is implementing a proactive defense against recidivism. Providing Rp5 million in seed capital may appear modest, but in the context of local economies in regional Sulawesi, it provides a viable starting point for micro-enterprises such as purchasing farming equipment, acquiring livestock, or stocking small sundry shops.

Furthermore, economic self-sufficiency fosters personal dignity and transforms public perception. When former prisoners become productive, tax-paying, and contributing members of their local economies, community attitudes naturally shift from fear and skepticism to acceptance and cooperation. This normalization of daily interactions is essential for long-term social cohesion.

Broader Perspectives on Indonesia’s Deradicalization Strategy

Indonesia’s approach to counterterrorism has increasingly emphasized a holistic framework that combines firm law enforcement with compassionate, community-based rehabilitation. While agencies like Detachment 88 (Densus 88) handle security threats and arrests, civil ministries such as the Ministry of Social Affairs and religious bodies play an indispensable role in the post-conflict and post-conviction phases.

Experts in security studies and social policy have frequently praised Indonesia’s emphasis on human-centric reintegration programs. Unlike approaches that rely solely on prolonged incarceration or marginalization—which can inadvertently reinforce extremist grievances—integration initiatives validate the possibility of rehabilitation. They send a clear signal that society is willing to welcome back individuals who demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace, rule of law, and civic responsibility.

However, challenges remain. Reintegration is rarely linear, and the stigma associated with a terrorism conviction can take years to fully dissipate. Sustained efforts require continuous funding, active participation from local civil society organizations, and robust mental health support systems for both former offenders and the communities receiving them.

Moving Forward: Toward Lasting Peace in Poso

The National Dialogue in Tamanjeka and the distribution of economic empowerment funds mark an important milestone in Poso’s ongoing journey toward permanent stability. By bringing together government officials, religious figures, community elders, and former combatants in an open dialogue, the event reinforced the idea that peace is a collective responsibility.

As these 21 former terrorism convicts launch or expand their independent business ventures with the Ministry’s backing, the eyes of policymakers and social researchers will remain fixed on their progress. If successful, this model of localized economic empowerment paired with public reconciliation forums could serve as a blueprint for similar interventions across other regions of Indonesia that continue to grapple with the legacy of violent extremism.

Ultimately, the ultimate measure of success for these programs will not be found in statistical reports alone, but in the everyday realities of communities like Tamanjeka—where children can grow up in safety, neighbors can collaborate across past divides, and former adversaries can build a shared future rooted in economic stability, mutual respect, and enduring peace.

September 26, 2026 0 comment

Sports

John Herdman Provides Latest Update on Indonesia National Team Training Camp Ahead of the 2026 AFF Championship

by Rifan Muazin July 18, 2026

written by Rifan Muazin

Jakarta, Indonesia – July 18, 2026 – Head Coach John Herdman of the Indonesian National Football Team has offered a positive outlook on the ongoing training camp, dubbed "Skuad Garuda," as the team gears up for the highly anticipated 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup, commonly known as the AFF Championship. Herdman expressed confidence in the team’s developmental trajectory, signaling a promising progression towards their objectives for the regional tournament.

The Indonesian squad is currently immersed in a comprehensive training regimen designed to fine-tune their tactics, assess player fitness, and ultimately select the optimal roster for the AFF Championship. This intensive preparation has been strategically divided into two distinct phases. The initial phase of the training camp commenced on July 5th and concluded on July 11th, 2026. Following a brief interval, the second and concluding phase began on July 16th and is slated to run until July 25th, 2026. This structured approach allows the coaching staff ample time for thorough evaluation and strategic planning.

During these two crucial phases, Head Coach John Herdman is tasked with the significant responsibility of narrowing down an initial pool of 50 summoned players to form the final, definitive squad for the AFF Championship. The selection process is reportedly rigorous, with players undergoing comprehensive assessments across a spectrum of key performance indicators. These evaluations are not merely focused on individual technical prowess but also encompass tactical understanding, physical conditioning, mental resilience, and their ability to integrate effectively within the team’s established system. The objective is to assemble a cohesive and formidable unit capable of competing at the highest level within the Southeast Asian confederation.

Herdman, speaking on the progress observed during the second phase of the training camp, conveyed his satisfaction with the team’s development. While he refrained from disclosing specific details regarding the number of players who may have been released from the squad, the English tactician conveyed a sense of optimism regarding the advancements made by his charges. "The team’s progress is improving day by day; we continue to develop, showing positive progress," Herdman was quoted as saying, with his remarks being disseminated through the official channels of Bali United on Saturday, July 18th, 2026. This sentiment suggests a palpable upward trend in the team’s performance and cohesion.

The Road to the 2026 AFF Championship: A Strategic Approach

The AFF Championship, a biennial international football competition contested by the men’s national teams of the Association of Southeast Asian Football Federations (ASEAN) members, holds significant prestige within the region. For Indonesia, the tournament represents a key opportunity to assert regional dominance and secure silverware. The 2026 edition is particularly significant, following a period of evolving footballing landscapes in Southeast Asia, with several nations investing heavily in youth development and professional leagues.

The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has placed considerable faith in John Herdman, the former head coach of the Canadian women’s national team and the New Zealand men’s national team, to guide the Skuad Garuda to success. Herdman’s appointment marked a new chapter for Indonesian football, bringing with him a wealth of international coaching experience and a reputation for implementing structured, high-intensity training methodologies. His tenure has already seen promising signs, and the current training camp is a critical juncture in his long-term vision for the national team.

The decision to split the training camp into two phases is a deliberate strategy to manage player fatigue, allow for club commitments to be met where possible, and provide adequate time for the coaching staff to make informed selection decisions. The initial phase likely focused on foundational tactical drills, physical conditioning assessments, and introducing Herdman’s preferred playing style. The second phase, now underway, would typically involve more specific tactical scenarios, match simulations, and a closer examination of player partnerships and combinations.

Player Assessment and Squad Dynamics

The selection of 50 players for the initial training camp underscores the depth of talent available in Indonesia. This broad selection allows Herdman and his technical staff to scout and evaluate a wide array of players, including established stars, emerging talents from domestic leagues, and potentially even Indonesian players based abroad. The comprehensive assessment process is crucial for identifying players who not only possess individual quality but also exhibit the right attitude, adaptability, and commitment to the national team’s cause.

Key areas of assessment likely include:

Technical Proficiency: Ball control, passing accuracy, dribbling ability, shooting technique, and defensive skills.
Tactical Acumen: Understanding of formations, positional play, off-the-ball movement, and ability to execute game plans.
Physical Conditioning: Stamina, speed, agility, strength, and injury prevention.
Mental Fortitude: Resilience under pressure, leadership qualities, team spirit, and ability to handle criticism.
Adaptability: How well players can adjust to different roles, formations, and playing styles.

The positive remarks from Herdman suggest that many players are responding well to the demands of the camp and demonstrating the qualities necessary for international competition. This bodes well for the overall morale and competitive spirit within the squad.

Background and Context of the AFF Championship

The AFF Championship has been a cornerstone of Southeast Asian football since its inception in 1996 (then known as the Tiger Cup). The tournament provides a vital platform for regional teams to test their mettle against established powers and emerging contenders. Historically, nations like Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam have enjoyed periods of dominance, but Indonesia has consistently been a strong contender, reaching the final on multiple occasions without yet lifting the coveted trophy.

The growing popularity and professionalization of football across ASEAN have led to increased investment in national teams and leagues. This has resulted in a more competitive landscape, making each edition of the AFF Championship a highly anticipated event. The financial implications for participating nations are also significant, with broadcast rights, sponsorships, and fan engagement contributing to the sport’s economic growth.

For Indonesia, a nation with a passionate footballing culture, success in the AFF Championship is not just about sporting achievement but also about national pride and identity. The team’s performance can significantly impact public sentiment and inspire a new generation of footballers.

Potential Implications and Future Outlook

Herdman’s optimistic assessment suggests that the Indonesian National Team is on a solid footing heading into the crucial final stages of preparation. The positive development within the squad implies that the coaching staff is effectively implementing their strategies and that players are responding positively to the demands. This can translate into a more cohesive, tactically astute, and physically prepared team when the tournament commences.

The rigorous selection process, aimed at identifying the "best team," is a testament to the coaching staff’s commitment to maximizing their chances of success. By casting a wide net initially and then meticulously evaluating each player, Herdman aims to build a squad with the right blend of experience, youth, talent, and character.

The AFF Championship 2026 will undoubtedly present a formidable challenge. Neighboring countries will also be undergoing their own preparations, and the competitive intensity is expected to be higher than ever. However, if the positive trajectory highlighted by Herdman continues, Indonesia will be well-positioned to make a significant impact and potentially challenge for their first-ever AFF Championship title. The coming weeks of the training camp will be critical in solidifying the squad and fine-tuning their approach, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting campaign for Skuad Garuda. The focus now shifts to translating this positive internal development into tangible results on the international stage.

July 18, 2026 0 comment

Travel & Tourism

Government Provides Formal Accountability Report for 2013 State Budget Execution Amid Qualified Audit Opinion from the Audit Board of Indonesia

by Ali Ikhwan June 12, 2025

written by Ali Ikhwan

In a formal plenary session held at the Nusantara II Building in Senayan, Jakarta, on Tuesday, June 24, 2014, the Government of Indonesia, represented by Minister of Finance Chatib Basri, officially presented the Bill (RUU) regarding the Accountability for the Implementation of the 2013 State Budget (APBN). The session served as a critical juncture for the administration to explain the fiscal performance of the previous year, which was marked by significant global economic volatility and internal structural adjustments. Central to the presentation was the disclosure of the Audit Board of Indonesia’s (BPK) assessment of the 2013 Central Government Financial Report (LKPP), which received a "Qualified Opinion" (Wajar Dengan Pengecualian or WDP).

Minister Chatib Basri detailed the specific accounting discrepancies that prevented the government from achieving an "Unqualified Opinion" (Wajar Tanpa Pengecualian or WTP), the highest audit standard. According to the Minister, the BPK’s decision to grant a WDP status was rooted in four primary systemic issues: problems related to over-lifting receivables in the oil and gas sector, oil and gas sales receivables, the management of credit assets inherited from the former Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency (BPPN), and the administration of pension fund expenditures. These issues, some of which are legacy problems spanning several years, continue to complicate the accuracy and transparency of the state’s balance sheet.

The Technical Drivers of the Qualified Audit Opinion

The "Qualified Opinion" status indicates that while the financial statements are generally presented fairly, there are specific areas where the auditor could not obtain sufficient evidence or where misstatements exist that are material but not pervasive. Minister Basri emphasized that the government is working to resolve these sticking points, which have historically been difficult to reconcile.

The first major hurdle involves "over-lifting" receivables. In the context of Indonesia’s Production Sharing Contracts (PSC), over-lifting occurs when a contractor takes more than its allocated share of oil or gas production. Reconciling these amounts between the government, the upstream regulator (SKK Migas), and various international oil companies often results in protracted accounting delays. Similarly, oil and gas sales receivables—monies owed to the state from the sale of hydrocarbons—have faced valuation and timing issues that the BPK found unsatisfactory for a clean audit.

Furthermore, the government continues to grapple with the liquidation of assets from the Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency (BPPN), an entity established during the 1997-1998 Asian Financial Crisis to manage distressed bank assets. More than fifteen years later, the valuation and documentation of these residual credit assets remain a point of contention for auditors. Finally, the accounting for pension fund expenditures, which involves complex long-term liabilities and inter-departmental data synchronization, was cited as the fourth pillar of the BPK’s audit exception.

Macroeconomic Headwinds: The "Taper Tantrum" and Global Shifts

Beyond the technicalities of the audit, Minister Basri used the plenary session to provide a broader context for the 2013 fiscal year. He noted that the implementation of the 2013 APBN was conducted under extreme duress from both external and internal factors. The most significant external pressure was the global market volatility triggered by the United States Federal Reserve.

In May 2013, then-Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke hinted at a reduction, or "tapering," of the central bank’s massive bond-buying program. This announcement sparked what economists call the "Taper Tantrum," leading to a massive outflow of capital from emerging markets like Indonesia. Investors, fearing higher interest rates in the U.S., pulled funds out of Indonesian stocks and bonds, putting immediate and severe pressure on the Rupiah.

This external shock was compounded by a slowdown in the global economy, particularly in China, which led to a decline in international commodity prices. As a commodity-exporting nation, Indonesia saw its export revenues dwindle, further straining the state budget and the national trade balance.

Internal Economic Pressures and the Current Account Deficit

Domestically, the Indonesian economy faced a "perfect storm" in 2013. The most pressing issue was the widening Current Account Deficit (CAD). Due to high domestic demand for imported fuel and the aforementioned drop in export prices, the CAD reached a record high of approximately 4.4% of GDP in the second quarter of 2013. This deficit made the Rupiah particularly vulnerable to the negative sentiment following the Fed’s tapering signals.

The Rupiah, which began 2013 at approximately 9,600 per U.S. Dollar, plummeted to over 12,000 per USD by the end of the year. This depreciation increased the cost of imports and raised the burden of servicing foreign-denominated debt, both for the government and the private sector.

Minister Basri explained that these dynamics forced the government to adjust its macroeconomic assumptions mid-year. "The internal and external dynamics certainly had an impact on the changes in basic macroeconomic assumptions, which ultimately influenced the implementation and achievement of the 2013 APBN targets," he stated before the lawmakers.

Government Policy Responses and Stabilization Efforts

To mitigate the impact of these shocks, the government implemented a series of "Pre-emptive Moves" and stabilization policies throughout the second half of 2013. One of the most significant and politically sensitive measures was the adjustment of subsidized fuel (BBM) prices in June 2013. By raising fuel prices, the government sought to curb excessive consumption, reduce the ballooning energy subsidy bill, and narrow the trade deficit caused by oil imports.

In addition to fiscal measures, the government worked closely with Bank Indonesia (BI) to stabilize the financial system. The central bank aggressively raised its benchmark interest rate (the BI Rate) from 5.75% in May 2013 to 7.50% by November 2013 to combat inflation and stem capital outflows.

"The government has also strived to take several steps in order to stabilize the national economic condition," Basri noted. These steps included strengthening the current account through tax incentives for export-oriented industries, simplifying the investment licensing process to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and maintaining fiscal discipline to keep the budget deficit within the legally mandated limit of 3% of GDP.

Chronology of the 2013 Fiscal Year

The 2013 fiscal journey began with the original APBN 2013, which was designed under more optimistic global conditions. However, by mid-2013, the government was forced to propose a Revised State Budget (APBN-P 2013) to account for the Rupiah’s depreciation and the rising cost of subsidies.

January – May 2013: The economy showed signs of resilience, though the trade balance began to weaken as commodity prices softened.
May 22, 2013: Ben Bernanke’s "tapering" comments triggered immediate capital flight from the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) and the bond market.
June 2013: The government and DPR approved the APBN-P 2013, which included a hike in subsidized fuel prices (gasoline from Rp4,500 to Rp6,500 and diesel from Rp4,500 to Rp5,500).
August 2013: The government launched its "First Policy Package" to address the CAD and inflation, which had spiked to over 8% following the fuel price adjustment.
December 2013: The fiscal year closed with a budget deficit of approximately 2.3% of GDP, higher than the original target but within safe legal limits.

The presentation on June 24, 2014, represented the final step in this cycle: the formal reporting of how every Rupiah was spent and accounted for during that turbulent period.

Reactions and Implications for Governance

The BPK’s WDP opinion serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges in Indonesian bureaucratic reform. While the government has made strides—moving away from "Disclaimer" opinions (where auditors refuse to give an opinion) that were common in the early 2000s—achieving a consistent "Clean" (WTP) status remains elusive for the central government.

Legislators at the DPR expressed mixed reactions to the report. While some acknowledged the extraordinary global circumstances of 2013, others criticized the government for the recurring nature of the audit findings. Members of the Budget Committee (Banggar) emphasized that "legacy issues" like the BPPN assets and oil and gas receivables should have been resolved years ago. They argued that the lack of a clean audit could affect Indonesia’s investment grade and the cost of borrowing on international markets.

Financial analysts suggest that while a WDP status is not a "fail" grade, it highlights a need for better integration of financial data between the Ministry of Finance and other technical ministries (Kementerian/Lembaga). The transition to accrual-based accounting, which was being phased in during this period, was also cited as a factor that added complexity to the 2013 reporting cycle.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

Minister Chatib Basri’s presentation of the RUU P2 APBN 2013 concluded with a commitment to further transparency. He noted that despite the "Qualified" status, the government successfully navigated one of the most volatile economic periods in recent history without a systemic financial crisis. The 2013 fiscal year proved to be a test of Indonesia’s resilience, demonstrating that while the accounting "books" still require cleaning, the underlying economic foundations remained intact.

As the government moves forward, the focus remains on resolving the four specific areas of concern identified by the BPK. Improving the management of state-owned assets and refining the synchronization of oil and gas revenue data are high on the agenda. For the administration, the 2013 report is not just a look back at a difficult year, but a roadmap for the fiscal reforms necessary to achieve the elusive Unqualified Opinion in the years to come. The plenary session ended with the DPR agreeing to further discuss the bill in the relevant commissions, ensuring that the accountability process continues through the legislative gauntlet.

June 12, 2025 0 comment