bisnisrakyat.id - Indonesia's legal history records many major cases that not only attracted public attention, but also influenced changes in policy, the legal system and society at large. Here are the 10 biggest legal cases that are considered to have changed the course of Indonesian history.

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1. Munir Said Thalib Murder Case (2004)

Munir Said Thalib, a prominent human rights activist, died of poisoning on a flight to the Netherlands. The case revealed the involvement of several parties suspected of having links to state institutions. To date, Munir's case has not been fully uncovered, but it has raised public awareness about the importance of protecting human rights activists and transparency in the investigation of major crimes.

2. BLBI Case (1998)

Bantuan Likuiditas Bank Indonesia (BLBI) was given to banks affected by the 1997-1998 monetary crisis. However, some of the funds were misused by the recipients. This case became a major symbol of systemic corruption in the New Order and post-New Order era. The handling of this case took years, and its impact is still felt today in debates about economic law enforcement in Indonesia.

3. Trisakti Incident and Student Shooting Case (1998)

The shooting of four Trisakti students on May 12, 1998 was one of the triggers for the fall of the New Order regime. It prompted major reforms in Indonesia's political and legal systems. Despite the reforms, this case shows the need for accountability of security institutions in safeguarding human rights.

4. The 1965-1966 Massacre Case

After the G30S/PKI incident, Indonesia experienced great turmoil that led to the mass killings of people suspected of being associated with the PKI. Until now, this case has been debated, both at the national and international levels, regarding gross human rights violations. Although there has been no adequate legal resolution, the case has influenced discussions about national reconciliation.

5. Lapindo Brantas Case (2006)

The hot mudflow in Sidoarjo, East Java, caused by Lapindo Brantas' drilling activities, became one of Indonesia's biggest environmental disasters. The case tested the company's responsibility towards the affected communities. Although many victims have received compensation, the case has raised debates about environmental law enforcement in Indonesia.

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6. Bank Century Scandal (2008)

Bank Century case involved the alleged misuse of bailout funds given to the bank by the government. The scandal sparked heated debates in parliament and the public, and symbolized the lack of transparency in the management of state finances. The case also shook public confidence in banking institutions and the government.

7. Marsinah Murder Case (1993)

Marsinah, a female laborer, was found dead after engaging in a strike demanding a wage increase. This case became a symbol of the struggle for labor rights in Indonesia. To date, the perpetrators of Marsinah's murder have not been fully brought to justice, but the case inspired many labor movements in Indonesia.

8. E-KTP Corruption Case (2011)

The corruption case of the electronic ID card (e-KTP) project involving dozens of state officials became one of the biggest corruption scandals in Indonesia. The value of state losses reached trillions of rupiah. This case showed how big the challenge in eradicating corruption is, even though there are institutions such as the KPK that are tasked with eradicating it.

9. Sipadan and Ligitan Island Case (2002)

This case was not a criminal case, but involved an international dispute between Indonesia and Malaysia over the ownership of Sipadan and Ligitan Islands. The International Court of Justice eventually ruled that the two islands belonged to Malaysia. This decision influenced Indonesia's policy in border area management.

10. The Freeport Case and Contract Renegotiation (2018)

The contract renegotiation between the Indonesian government and Freeport McMoRan to gain a majority stake in PT Freeport Indonesia was one of the most important steps in Indonesia's natural resource sovereignty. This case demonstrates Indonesia's ability to renegotiate major contracts with multinational companies in the national interest.

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Lastly,

The major legal cases above not only provide valuable lessons, but also serve as a reminder that strong law enforcement is the foundation of a just society. From human rights cases to corruption, all point to the need for transparency, accountability and reform in Indonesia's legal system. By learning from history, it is hoped that Indonesia can build a better legal future.