TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A public policy observer from the National Development University or UPN Veteran Jakarta, Achmad Nur Hidayat, lamented the conflict between security officials and local communities on Rempang Island, Batam, Riau Islands. He opined that the authorities' repressive actions were a form of betrayal of democratic principles and human rights.

“I also regret the government's stance which tends to side with investors and ignores the rights of the people,” Achmad said in a written statement, on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.

As previously reported, a clash broke out between Rempang residents and joint security officers as people opposed the relocation and the construction project of the Rempang Eco City, an integrated industrial, trade, and tourism area.

Achmad argued that the conflict case on Rempang Island is a reflection of many similar cases in the country where people have become victims of business and political interests. He emphasized that granting the rights to cultivate (HGU) permit to private parties without considering the rights of local communities is a form of injustice that needs to be addressed immediately.

“I understand the importance of investment and development for economic growth. But without paying attention to people's rights, the growth achieved is flawed growth,” Achmad said.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo or Jokowi said on Tuesday, Sept. 12, that the conflict on Rempang Island, Riau Islands, was triggered by a lack of proper communication. If the local residents had been consulted and provided with solutions regarding BP Batam’s plan to develop the Rempang Eco City project, he added, the conflict would not have occurred.

RIRI RAHAYU

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