inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) member Bambang Soesatyo (Bamsoet) has asked law enforcement officials to investigate the raising of the Crescent Moon and Star flag in the courtyard of the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Banda Aceh on Saturday (8/15/2026).
"Law enforcement officials must thoroughly investigate this matter and take firm action against the perpetrators in accordance with applicable law," Bamsoet said in a statement in Jakarta on Sunday (8/16/2026).
Bamsoet also condemned the lowering of the Indonesian flag during the incident. He stated that this action has the potential to disrupt the spirit of peace that has been built over 21 years.
He emphasized that law enforcement must be carried out professionally and measuredly and must not escalate into actions that escalate the conflict.
He stated that authorities need to differentiate between people peacefully expressing their aspirations and individuals engaging in provocation, violence, vandalism, or actions that demean state symbols and emblems.
Bamsoet believes that an appropriate legal approach is necessary to maintain the state's authority and prevent the perception that Acehnese society as a whole is once again mired in conflict.
"A thorough, professional, objective, and transparent investigation is necessary. The actions of a handful of people must not be generalized to reflect the actions of all Acehnese people," he said.
The former Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) also requested that the central government and the Aceh Government immediately conduct a comprehensive evaluation to prevent similar incidents from occurring again and to ensure that the aspirations of the Acehnese people are properly addressed.
Furthermore, Bamsoet urged all elements of Acehnese society, including religious leaders, traditional leaders, former combatants, community leaders, youth, and civil society groups, not to be provoked.
"Aceh has proven that differences and conflicts can be resolved through negotiations. If there are still issues regarding the implementation of Aceh's special status, welfare, natural resources, infrastructure, or other matters that remain unresolved, these must be pursued through political, legal, and dialogue channels. I urge all parties to exercise restraint, maintain order, and work together to maintain peace in Aceh," he said.
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