Journal article
The Role of Majelis Ulama Indonesia in Blasphemy Trials in East Java
Australian Journal of Asian Law, Vol.25(2), pp.103-120
2025
Abstract
This article examines the role of MUI (Majelis Ulama Indonesia, Indonesian Ulama Council) in post-Soeharto era blasphemy law trials in East Java. Article 156a of Indonesia's Criminal Code, known as Indonesia's 'Blasphemy Law', criminalises dishonouring or misusing one of the nationally recognised religions. Examining primary court documents in seven East Javanese cases, I find that MUI plays an influential role in the majority of blasphemy trials in East Java through the submission of MUI fatwa and MUI expert witness testimony as evidence. MUI is able to exert this influence due to legal ambiguity created by the vague drafting of both the Blasphemy Law and Indonesia's criminal procedure law. However, these cases also illuminate limitations on MUI's influence in Blasphemy Law trials, for example, where MUI is not involved or where the judges disagree with MUI's opinions. This article considers whether these factors are likely to continue with the introduction of revised blasphemy provisions in Indonesia's new Criminal Code, set to commence in 2026. I find that changes in the law, such as the removal of terminology that invited input from religious groups, may reduce the scope for involvement of MUI in future blasphemy law trials.
Details
- Title
- The Role of Majelis Ulama Indonesia in Blasphemy Trials in East Java
- Authors/Creators
- Kate Thresher
- Publication Details
- Australian Journal of Asian Law, Vol.25(2), pp.103-120
- Publisher
- Melbourne Law School
- Identifiers
- 991005753925207891
- Copyright
- © 2025 University of Melbourne - Law School
- Murdoch Affiliation
- Murdoch University
- Resource Type
- Journal article
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