DOI: https://doi.org/10.14710/jhp.13.2.253-284

LIVING LAW AND HYBRID JUSTICE: THE INTEGRATION OF CUSTOMARY CRIMINAL LAW IN INDONESIA’S 2023 NATIONAL CRIMINAL CODE

*Annisa Sabilla Sueni  -  Faculty of Law, Universitas Bengkulu, Indonesia
Zico Junius Fernando  -  Faculty of Law, Universitas Bengkulu, Indonesia
Ayu Putriyana  -  Faculty of Law, Universitas Bengkulu, Indonesia
Dwi Putri Lestarika  -  Faculty of Law, Universitas Bengkulu, Indonesia
Almira Novia Zulaika  -  Faculty of Law, University of Melbourne, Australia

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Abstract

The 2023 Indonesian Criminal Code represents a significant shift in Indonesia’s legal framework by recognizing living law, particularly customary criminal law, as an integral part of the national legal system. This transformation challenges the traditional legal positivism inherited from colonial rule and introduces a more pluralistic and socially responsive approach to law. The recognition of living law, as stipulated in Article 2, allows customary law to function alongside formal legal provisions, provided it aligns with the values of Pancasila, the 1945 Constitution, and internationally recognized human rights principles. This acknowledges the ongoing role of customary law in regulating social behavior and resolving disputes, particularly in indigenous communities across Indonesia. However, the integration of customary law into the formal criminal justice system presents challenges. While the substantive aspects of customary law are recognized, procedural guidelines remain underdeveloped, creating potential legal uncertainty. This lack of clarity could lead to inconsistent application across different regions and undermine public trust in the justice system. The need for government regulation to clarify the procedures for recognizing and applying customary law is evident. Without such regulations, there is a risk that customary law could be arbitrarily invoked, potentially conflicting with human rights and constitutional principles. The recognition of living law provides an opportunity to enrich Indonesia's legal system by incorporating restorative justice practices prevalent in customary law. These practices focus on reconciliation and repairing relationships rather than retributive punishment, aligning with the values of many indigenous communities. However, ensuring that customary law respects fundamental human rights, such as gender equality and protection against inhumane treatment, remains essential. Ultimately, while the integration of living law in Indonesia's legal system is a positive step, it requires clear procedural standards and oversight mechanisms to ensure fairness, consistency, and respect for human rights.

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Keywords: Living Law; Hybrid Justice System; Customary Criminal Law; Indonesian Criminal Code; Legal Pluralism

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