Indonesia's Coordinating Minister calls for respect of national symbols in Aceh and Papua

Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs, Djamari Chaniago, has called on the public to maintain peace, unity, and security following recent tensions in Aceh and Papua.

The statement follows reports of the removal of the Indonesian national flag (Merah Putih) and the Garuda Pancasila emblem in Aceh, as well as demonstrations in Papua. Chaniago emphasized that while the government respects Aceh's special autonomy and the constitutional right to peaceful expression in Papua, national symbols must be respected in accordance with Law Number 24 of 2009.

Regarding the incidents in Aceh, the Minister instructed authorities to objectively investigate the facts, motives, and perpetrators. He stated that if criminal elements are found, those responsible must be processed strictly and fairly under existing laws. He also stressed that the peace maintained in Aceh for over two decades is a vital achievement that must be preserved through dialogue and legal adherence.