the number of Indonesians living abroad increases, the government is considering the possibility of allowing dual citizenship.
The debate on whether or not an Indonesian should be granted dual nationality continues as Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs Luhut Pandjaitan recently made a statement showing support for Indonesians who settled abroad to return to the country.
"Do not argue on the regulations that we can still change. What is most important is that we have the best Indonesians working with future generations to better our country," said Pandjaitan as reported by The Jakarta Post.
The Minister further revealed that there are many Indonesians living in the United States, Europe and Australia who wish to return to their homeland so they can bring their contribution to the nation.
But last week, the public was made aware of the challenges facing Indonesians holding two passports, which are not legally allowed. On Monday, President Joko Widodo has decided to fulfill honorably former Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Arcandra Tahar for holding a US citizenship.
In its defense, Tahar explained that he lived in the United States but insisted he is an Indonesian citizen. "I went to America in 1996. To date, I am still holds an Indonesian passport and my Indonesian passport is still valid," he said.
A few days later, a similar case took place when 16 years Gloria Natapradja Hamel, who was found to hold a french passport, was temporarily removed from the national troupe of flag hoisting (Paskibraka) Independence day. She was later pardoned by President which overturned the decision and allowed him to join the national flag ceremony troupe yesterday at the State Palace.
Youth and Sports Nahrawi Imam, who oversaw the selection for the troupe Paskibraka also admitted that the team had only discovered it did not have an Indonesian passport at the last minute. Hamel did not know it would disqualify activities.
Regardless, President promised in 2015 that his administration to find alternative ways for Indonesian citizens and their families living abroad the right to the possession of dual nationality.
The children of mixed marriage couples and Indonesians of foreign spouses are most affected by the inability to have dual citizenship in Indonesia.