The Indonesian Ombudsman has concluded its investigation into the disturbances surrounding the development of the National Strategic Project, Rempang Eco City, in Riau Islands province.
The investigation reveals potential maladministration issues related to negligence, prolonged delays, and procedural lapses in the Rempang development.
Johanes Widijantoro, an Ombudsman member, said the investigative report, spanning from September 2023 to January 2024, has been submitted to relevant institutions, including the Ministry of Agrarian and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN), the Batam Authority (BP Batam), the National Police (Polri), and the Batam City Administration.
Additionally, the report was delivered to the Accelerated Team for the Development of Green Investment in the Rempang Island Area.
The corrective notes from the Ombudsman’s investigation have been provided to each institution, with specific recommendations outlined.
Regarding the protests on September 7 and 11, 2023, the Ombudsman urged the police to prioritize restorative justice in resolving the cases within 30 days.
“We are now awaiting the responses and follow-up actions from the mentioned institutions based on the Ombudsman’s recommendations,” said Johanes.
Furthermore, the Ombudsman emphasizes the importance of using the findings as constructive feedback for the Rempang community, encouraging the police to consider restorative justice over legal processes in the future.
According to Johanes, the protesters were advocating for their interests, and the police should understand their perspective.
The Ombudsman also stressed that the Ministry of Agrarian and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency must adhere to existing regulations and uphold the principle of non-discrimination.
The Batam City Administration was urged to follow through on the decision regarding old settlements in Batam, emphasizing the need to address the halted process and emerging issues tied to the national strategic project.
As for BP Batam, the Ombudsman called for the development of optimal solutions for residents reluctant to relocate.
The Ombudsman expresses hope that any proposed solutions would consider the well-being of all parties involved and avoid causing grievances.
