Bali Becomes Key Venue for Indigenous Rights Bill Discussion

RRI.CO.ID, Denpasar - Bali has been chosen as the stage where lawmakers are seeking fresh insight into the long-debated bill on Indigenous Peoples, known as the RUU Masyarakat Hukum Adat.

The House of Representatives’ Legislative Body (Baleg DPR RI) is exploring how the bill could empower traditional villages to issue investment permits within their territories.

Speaking in Denpasar, delegation leader Iman Sukri emphasized that the bill is crucial to provide recognition and protection for Indigenous communities. He cited the case of Batur village in Bangli, where local residents often feel sidelined in investment projects around the caldera, despite their deep involvement in religious ceremonies and cultural obligations.

“This bill will place Indigenous communities as legal subjects, giving them rights and responsibilities, including in economic matters,” Sukri said on Thursday, May 7, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The legislation has been stuck in debate for two decades, with concerns that it might disrupt investment. Sukri acknowledged those fears but insisted that clarity is needed.

Bali was chosen as the venue for consultation because lawmakers believe the province is best prepared to address Indigenous issues. “We must protect and empower Indigenous communities while ensuring investment remains secure,” said the Jembrana-born politician.

During the visit, Bali Governor Wayan Koster offered input on terminology, noting that “Indigenous Peoples” is broader and more inclusive than “Indigenous Legal Communities.”

He explained that while Bali’s customary villages have executive, legislative, and judicial structures, the bill does not need to replicate them. Sukri agreed that the title should be simplified to “RUU Masyarakat Adat” to make it more accessible nationwide.

The delegation plans to gather perspectives from other traditional leaders across Indonesia to accelerate the bill’s completion. Sukri stressed that the House is committed to a participatory process and invites contributions from communities, local administrations, stakeholders, and academics.

The goal, he said, is to craft legislation that both safeguards Indigenous rights and integrates them into the nation’s legal framework. ***