Fadli Zon Urges Caution Over Use of “Mass Rape” Term in 1998 Tragedy

Strzelinko, Poland, En Indonesiaupdates — Indonesian Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, has called for extreme caution in using the term “mass rape” when referring to the violence that occurred during the May 1998 tragedy, urging that such serious allegations must be supported by accurate legal facts and evidence.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Bali Indah Cultural Park in Strzelinko City, Slupsk, Poland, Fadli stressed that while acts of sexual violence did occur during Indonesia’s political reform transition, the use of terms like “mass rape” carries profound implications and must be thoroughly substantiated.

“We must be very careful when dealing with historical claims, especially regarding data and evidence. Let’s not allow our nation to be branded unjustly as a country of mass rapists,” Fadli said, as quoted by Antara, Tuesday (June 17, 2025).

He acknowledged the reality of violence against women, both historically and in the present day, but asserted that the classification of these acts as mass sexual violence requires deeper investigation.

“Sexual violence against women has happened—not just in the past, but still occurs today. But whether it qualifies as ‘mass rape’ is a claim that demands more study, stronger evidence, and legal validation,” he added.

Fadli, who previously served as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR), pointed to the conflicting and unverified reports that circulated during the chaotic transition of power in 1998. He emphasized that many of these accounts have not been legally confirmed in court.

“That period was marked by information confusion. We must explore these matters carefully. I am not denying the existence of crimes—there were many—but let us separate political narratives from objective legal truth,” he explained.

Fadli also referred to the findings of the Joint Fact-Finding Team (TGPF), noting that some of its key recommendations remain unaddressed to this day.

While advocating for legal precision and avoiding politicization, Fadli affirmed his full support for prosecuting perpetrators—if systematic and proven acts of mass rape are legally established.

“If such crimes are proven, then yes—I fully support that the perpetrators be brought to justice and punished to the fullest extent of the law,” he concluded.