The Chief of the National Police of the Republic of Indonesia has once again demonstrated that one of Indonesia’s law enforcement agencies values freedom of expression. The 2021 Bhayangkara Mural Festival, which will be conducted simultaneously in all regions of Indonesia on Saturday (30/10/21), demonstrates this.
The 2021 Bhayangkara Mural Festival was officially launched by the National Police Chief, Police General Drs. Listyo Sigit Prabowo, M.Sc., at the Bhayangkara Police Headquarters field, which was attended by hundreds of muralists from all across Indonesia.
The National Police Chief emphasized in his statement that freedom of expression is protected by Article 28 of the 1945 Constitution, as well as by Law 9 of 1998 on freedom of expression in public. This is one of Indonesia’s cornerstones for public freedom of expression.
The National Police Chief stated, “Of sure, the Bhayangkara Mural Festival 2021 is proof that we value freedom of speech.”
The National Police Chief also explained the activity’s sub-themes, one of which was devoted to allowing the Polri institution to be criticized. According to the National Police Chief, the police used this to get input on the public’s impression of the police. Positive input creates motivation, whilst negative input becomes material for contemplation and introspection in order to make positive changes.