Survey: Public Opinion on Indonesia Penalizing Premarital and Extramarital Sex

Indonesia, the largest Muslim-populated country, is known for its traditional way of life that follows Zina values.

On December 15th, the Indonesian Parliament is set to pass a new criminal code. Premarital sex is set to be punished by up to one year in prison under the Indonesian Criminal Code (RKUHP).

“Anyone who has intercourse with someone who is not their husband or wife shall be punished for adultery with a maximum imprisonment of 1 (one) year or a maximum fine of Category II,” reads Article 413, Paragraph 1.

The regulation will take effect if an adultery complaint is registered by the perpetrator’s spouse or the parents of children not bound by marriage. Nevertheless, complaints can be withdrawn before trial.

Indonesia also prohibits insulting the president or state institutions, opposing the state ideology, and live-in relationships which discriminate against women, religious minorities, and LGBTQ people.

Foreigners and Indonesian citizens would both be affected by the new criminal code if it is passed. Indonesia’s image as a tourist and investment destination may be negatively affected by the new rules, according to business groups.

According to civil society activists, this would place same-sex couples at an increased risk of prosecution. “This is dangerous not only because of the threat of punishment, but it can [give] legitimacy to the vigilante community,” said Muhamad Isnur, the chair of the Indonesia Legal Aid Foundation.

In response to the code announcement three years ago, tens of thousands protested in the streets across Indonesia. Therefore, Real Research, an online survey app, launched a survey to see how the public would react this time.

Hurry and answer the survey on public opinion on Indonesia penalizing premarital and extramarital sex on the Real Research app from December 07, 2022. Afterward, you will receive 50 TNCs as a reward.