2026 Seen as Turning Point for Police Cultural Reform

JAKARTA - The Indonesia Cerah Movement (GIC) expressed optimism that the cultural transformation in the body of the National Police of the Republic of Indonesia (Polri) will become more visible in 2026. The transformation is considered to be the key to strengthening democratic law enforcement and responding to the expectations of modern society.

GIC Coordinator Febry Wahyuni Sabran said the National Police continued to show sustainable efforts to adapt to the challenges of the times. According to him, the commitment to reform shown by the police institution is not only structural, but also touches on aspects of professionalism, integrity, and public service.

"The National Police continues to transform to respond to the challenges of the times and public expectations. Public support arises because they see firsthand the real efforts in improving the quality of public services, operational transparency, and commitment to fair law enforcement without discrimination," said Febry in a written statement, Sunday, January 4.

Febry assessed that public support for the National Police was getting stronger ahead of 2026. He believes that all elements of society are now behind the police institution in an effort to strengthen the rule of law in Indonesia.

On the other hand, Febry highlighted the vision of the government of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka who placed law enforcement and democracy as the main pillars of national development. According to him, a strong and just legal system is an important prerequisite for Indonesia to become a developed country.

"Police reform is not only the internal responsibility of the institution, but is a national interest that must be supported by all components of the nation," he said.

Furthermore, Febry believes that 2026 will be an important momentum for the transformation of the culture of the National Police. This transformation is considered not only a change in procedures or regulations, but also touches on the work culture and mentality of the police.

"This cultural change is crucial, because structures and rules alone are not enough to produce law enforcement that truly serves the interests of the people," he said.

He explained that the transformation of the culture of the National Police includes improving professionalism throughout the line, strengthening accountability through effective internal and external supervision, and reorienting public services that place the public as the main subject. In addition, internalization of democratic values and human rights is also an important part of this change.

According to Febry, this transformation process is supported by strong political commitment from various national figures as well as the active involvement of civil society. GIC together with a number of other organizations continues to monitor and advocate for reforms to be consistent and sustainable.

"Collaboration between the government, the National Police, and civil society creates an ecosystem conducive to change. This is an important foundation for a mature and stable rule of law democracy, not only in 2026, but also on the way to Golden Indonesia 2045," he concluded.