In the history between the Netherlands and Indonesia, from the Dutch perspective, the word 'Bersiap' (prepare yourself) has a negative connotation. But Indonesian journalist Andreas Harsono is not shouting it at young people who want to revolt against a colonising power, he is saying it at Christian churches in view of a new penal code coming into force in Indonesia in 2026. That law could have major implications for religious freedom in the country.
Criminal code
Deputies for Mission participate in a partnership of European mission organisations supporting projects in Indonesia. Besides a meeting on the past year's proceedings, there is always a study topic. This year it was about the new 'criminal code' that will come into force in Indonesia in 2026. A law that could have major implications for Christian churches in Indonesia.
The new 'criminal code' was adopted by Indonesia's parliament after a long process of talks at various levels and signed by the president on 2 January 2023. It will come into force on 2 January 2026. The background to the change is what the government calls 'the decolonisation of criminal law'. But this is seriously questioned in Indonesia, especially by minority groups.
Blasphemy
Speaking at the seminar, Andreas Harsono, an Indonesian journalist associated with Human Right Watch, was extremely critical of the new law. He called it "the crown jewel of the political majority" - and anyone who knows Indonesia's demographics knows that he means Muslims.
He called on churches to prepare for what will happen after 2 January 2026: a rigid application of the new code, where any attempt to even engage in conversation with your Muslim neighbour about the Lord Jesus could bring you the charge of blasphemy (blasphemy).
The example of Jakarta's Christian governor Ahok, who was charged with blasphemy by a group of fanatical Muslims, and jailed for two years, was a serious warning to be prepared, according to him. And presumably, after 2026, 'ordinary' Christians will not be treated like Governor Ahok, who got off with a fairly mild 'punishment' ...
From mission, we will start the conversation about this with the partner church in Mamasa, to support them in how our sisters and brothers there can prepare.
