Surya Paloh on the Asset Confiscation Bill: If It’s Urgent, Proceed, But Don’t Create Polemics

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Nasdem Party Chairman Surya Paloh has called for the discussion of the Asset Confiscation Bill (RUU Perampasan Aset) to avoid sparking polemics that would drain the nation's energy.

Paloh stated that if the Asset Confiscation Bill is deemed urgent for the public interest, its deliberation can proceed.

"If it is truly considered urgent by the public, then go ahead," Surya Paloh said during an interview at Nasdem Tower, Jakarta, Saturday (9/19/2026).

However, Paloh cautioned that the bill's discussion should not deplete the nation's energy in endless debate.

"If something like this only causes polemics, then what's the point? The most important thing we must guard against is the nation's energy being wasted on one controversy after another," he explained.

Paloh even described the Asset Confiscation Bill as a "unique" regulation. Many parties regard it as an important law that needs to be enacted promptly.

"So, the more legislative products there are, especially something unique—if I may say, this asset confiscation bill is unique, right? Very unique in my opinion. There are even those who strongly push it as if it is crucial," Paloh added.

Nonetheless, Paloh emphasized that the key behind the bill’s discussion is to raise public awareness about their rights and obligations as citizens.

"First, I want to signal to everyone to build public awareness. Honestly, we are still not capable of harmonizing the rights and obligations we have as citizens," he said.

Furthermore, Paloh urged the public to maintain national stability and channel their energy into critical thinking and constructive solutions.

According to Paloh, criticizing without offering solutions is inappropriate. Similarly, perspectives aimed merely at pleasing certain groups are also misplaced.

"It’s a problem if people only criticize or dislike something but offer no alternatives. Or 'ABS' (asal bapak senang/'just to please the boss'). Both, in our view, are not proper," Paloh concluded.

Previously reported, House Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman outlined several materials in the draft Asset Confiscation Bill still being prepared by the House of Representatives.

Habiburokhman stated that the draft includes assets subject to confiscation, ranging from proceeds of criminal acts to assets used as tools or means to commit crimes.

In addition, assets found as evidence of criminal acts can also be seized by the state.

The House is also discussing two methods of asset confiscation: through court rulings and without court rulings.

Habiburokhman emphasized that the bill’s discussion pays attention to balancing law enforcement interests with constitutional protections of citizens’ property rights.

The discussion on the Asset Confiscation Bill is ongoing and is targeted to be enacted into law by December 2026.