In a significant step towards strengthening regional security and cooperation, Indonesia, along with six other ASEAN member states, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at preventing and enforcing laws against cross-border crimes and transnational offenses.

The signing ceremony, led by General Pol. Listyo Sigit Prabowo, the Chief of the Indonesian National Police, took place during the 17th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, on August 22, 2023.

This MoU goes beyond just collaborative law enforcement among neighboring nations; it also encompasses discussions on enhancing inter-country capacity building.

"Allow me to reiterate the importance of communication and collaboration in maintaining stability, security, and peace in the region," emphasized Sigit during the event.

He stressed that ASEAN countries collectively face a common adversary – cross-border crimes that transcend national boundaries, sovereignty, and legal jurisdictions.

Sigit highlighted the evolving modus operandi of transnational crimes, which now exploit technological advancements. Counterterrorism Cooperation

The pressing issue of terrorism was among the top priorities discussed at the 17th AMMTC in Labuan Bajo. Spokesperson of the Indonesian National Police's Densus 88 Anti Teror (Anti-Terror Detachment), Commissioner Pol. Aswin Siregar, underscored that terrorism is a crime that knows no national borders; it operates as a transnational menace.

"A terrorist group within one country poses a threat to the entire region," Aswin stated in Labuan Bajo.

Aswin further elucidated that many terrorist networks or organizations are not confined to a single country; they span across multiple nations. He even emphasized that terrorists operate on a more global scale, extending beyond ASEAN to various countries in the Middle East and other regions.

In light of these challenges, Indonesia is propelling the sharing of information and fostering a unified perspective on the terrorism threat faced by ASEAN nations.

Collaboration also encompasses dealing with terrorism financing, the propagation of ideologies on social media, and collective efforts to enhance capabilities for prevention and response throughout the ASEAN region.

Aswin affirmed that, as the chair of the 17th AMMTC, Indonesia is ready to share experiences and collectively bolster capabilities for prevention, law enforcement, and post-enforcement deradicalization.

This historic agreement reflects the shared commitment of ASEAN nations to maintaining regional security and harmony, effectively addressing the evolving threats posed by transnational crime and terrorism.