PDIP Legislator Warns of the Danger of Multi-Interpretation in the Annex to Presidential Regulation 8/2026 regarding the Triggering Factor of Extremism

Member of Commission I of the DPR from the PDIP Faction TB Hasanuddin reminded the danger of multi-interpretation in the Presidential Regulation Number 8 of 2026 regarding the definition and scope of violent extremism leading to terrorism. According to him, a number of points in the rules risk creating an unobjective labeling of certain groups of people.

In the annex to the Presidential Decree, it is stated that the driving factors of violence-based extremism leading to terrorism include; (1) the potential for communal conflict based on primordial and religious sentiments; (2) economic disparities; (3) political differences; (4) unfair treatment; and (5) intolerance in religious life.

Regarding this, TB Hasanuddin assessed that the three main points, namely economic disparities, political differences, and unfair treatment, must be explained carefully so as not to cause one-sided interpretations in the field.

"These factors have the potential to be multi-interpretable and encourage an objective labeling of violent extremism," said TB Hasanuddin, Friday, May 8.

TB Hasanuddin also emphasized that when economic disparities trigger extreme poverty, the state should be present through policies of economic equalization and social protection. "Not precisely using a security approach," he added.

According to TB Hasanuddin, people who protest against economic injustice should not be easily suspected or labeled as a group that is indicated as extremism.

"If the state neglects economic inequality, and the poor people protest because they feel they are treated unfairly, don't let the community group be labeled as a seed of extremism," explained the PDIP politician.

TB Hasanuddin also reminded that such labeling could actually lead to a repressive approach in solving social and economic problems. "And it has the potential to be counterproductive to efforts to enforce democracy," added the retired TNI.

In addition, he highlighted the point regarding the difference in political views that is included in the driving factor of extremism. According to him, criticism of government policies is part of the constitutional rights of citizens that should not be silenced under the pretext of security.

"Don't let public criticism of government policies be considered as part of extremism. This is dangerous for democracy and can erode the freedom of expression guaranteed by the constitution," said TB Hasanuddin.

The member of the Commission in the DPR who deals with defense affairs asked the government to ensure that the implementation of the Presidential Decree is carried out transparently, proportionally. TB Hasanuddin also asked the government not to open up room for criminalization of civil society and groups that convey criticism peacefully with the existence of this Presidential Decree.

"The handling of extremism must remain based on the principles of democracy, respect for human rights, and the fair and comprehensive resolution of social root problems," he concluded.