Author: Khazna Fania Khidri Irfani
Kopiah.Co – The controversial statement made by Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, describing the mass rapes of ethnic Chinese women during the May 1998 tragedy as merely a “rumor,” has sparked a wave of criticism across various segments of society. From the National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan), Amnesty International Indonesia, to academics and human rights activists, many have voiced deep concern over remarks that not only dismiss the suffering of victims but also endanger ongoing efforts to address unresolved gross human rights violations. Critics argue that the statement retraumatizes survivors—particularly women who bravely spoke out—as well as institutions that have long fought for justice on their behalf. What makes this even more troubling is that it coincides with the government’s project to rewrite Indonesia’s national history. This initiative, aimed at shaping an official state-sanctioned narrative, has raised fears of systematic attempts to reduce, erase, or distort dark chapters of the nation’s past, especially those involving state-led violence and human rights abuses. The 1998 fact-finding report (TGPF) documented systematic sexual violence against ethnic Chinese women during the riots, a historical truth that should have been preserved within national historiography—not denied outright by a public official.
This statement has further deepened political polarization and blurred the state’s commitment to truth-seeking and reconciliation. Amid the uncertainty surrounding the resolution of serious human rights abuses, narratives that deny historical facts only worsen collective wounds and erode public trust in the government’s integrity. The sharp criticism directed at Fadli Zon highlights not just the inaccuracy of his statement, but also questions the ideological stance of the ministry itself—a body that should safeguard historical heritage, not reshape it for short-term political interests.
Mass rapes in 1998
Were a series of group sexual assaults against Indonesian women of Chinese descent, forming part of the May 1998 riots. These acts of sexual violence occurred systematically and in an organized manner across several regions including Jakarta, Tangerang, Palembang, Solo, Surabaya, Lampung, and Medan. The number of victims officially recorded reached 85 women, predominantly ethnic Chinese from various social classes. According to the 1998 Joint Fact-Finding Team (TGPF) report, these 85 victims included “52 who were raped, 14 who were raped and physically assaulted, 10 who suffered sexual attacks/physical assaults, and 9 who experienced sexual harassment.” However, the actual number of victims is believed to be much higher, with some sources claiming more than 152 women. Data collected by the National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) indicated at least 168 women came forward as victims.
This mass rape case was officially acknowledged by the Indonesian government during the presidency of B. J. Habibie as a result of the TGPF’s investigation, mandated by five ministries: the Ministry of Defense and Security, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Attorney General’s Office. Findings and reports were also published by Komnas Perempuan. Furthermore, the atrocities were verified by Radhika Coomaraswamy, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women, who visited Indonesia in late 1998 at the government’s official invitation. In her report, Coomaraswamy confirmed that sexual violence was widespread across multiple cities. During her visit, she held confidential meetings with survivors who refused to report their assaults due to threats of murder, rape, and mutilation. One notable victim, human rights activist Ita Martadinata Haryono, was killed in her bedroom on October 9, 1998, just as she was preparing to testify before a UN session. She was only 18 years old when her life was taken. The brutality and mass rapes during this period prompted civil society to push for the creation of Komnas Perempuan, established on October 15, 1998.
In today’s political context, Fadli Zon’s statement raises serious questions about Indonesia’s cultural policy and collective memory. Is the state genuinely committed to truth and justice, or is it instead attempting to obscure history in the name of false stability? The May 1998 tragedy not only paved the way for the Reformasi era but also had profound implications for Indonesia’s international image and relations. The international community condemned the May 1998 riots—which involved arson, looting, and violence against civilians, particularly ethnic Chinese women. The rapes also prompted the issuance of a special report by the UN Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women. Similar international condemnation could resurface if the government continues to deny these atrocities. Such denial risks damaging Indonesia’s global reputation and hindering international cooperation, as seen in the past and in other countries with similar experiences. Nations such as Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia, Thailand, and the United States publicly denounced Indonesia’s human rights violations at the time, describing Indonesia as apathetic and unresponsive. These condemnations directly impacted Indonesia’s diplomatic relations, with several partner countries suspending bilateral cooperation programs, particularly in education and cultural exchanges (such as student and academic exchange initiatives). Doubts about Indonesia’s commitment to upholding human rights also became a major obstacle in international negotiations, including within ASEAN and the UN. Relations with East Asian countries like Taiwan and Hong Kong deteriorated, as many ethnic Chinese communities in those regions expressed solidarity with the victims in Indonesia. The negative image of Indonesia following the May 1998 riots also harmed the economy, discouraging foreign investors due to the country’s social and political instability.
The tourism sector experienced a sharp decline, particularly from visitors coming from countries that condemned the tragedy. Indonesia’s inability to follow up on international reports has further reinforced negative perceptions of the country’s legal system and its protection of human rights.The importance of political memory in diplomacy cannot be overstated. Political memory refers to a nation’s collective remembrance of pivotal events that shape its national identity and guide public policy. Kathrin Bachleitner of the University of Oxford explains that countries can strategically construct collective memory to project a particular image on the international stage, especially in post-conflict settings.
Through this writing, as an Indonesian citizen living in Tunisia, I hope to be heard. Amid the ongoing debate surrounding the proposed rewriting of history, we must ask ourselves with utmost respect: Should we erase history that undeniably happened? No, absolutely not. Doing so would only obstruct reconciliation and progress. Acknowledging history—particularly its darkest chapters—is the first step toward reconciliation. Concealing the truth may seem like a “shortcut” to protecting a nation’s image, but in the long run, it strips the country of its identity, erodes public trust, prevents society from learning from past mistakes, and ultimately denies genuine progress.
Moreover, statements that have been made and widely spread in the media represent manipulation, historical distortion, and an affront to efforts aimed at uncovering the truth about human tragedies—particularly the sexual violence against women during the May 1998 events.The hope is that the government and political figures, including Fadli Zon, will demonstrate a genuine commitment to supporting investigations, enforcing justice, and resolving past human rights violations. This effort could extend into the realm of proper public education if carried out fairly and truthfully. Society wishes for this tragedy to be treated as a vital lesson, not something to be hidden away. There is hope that the 1998 tragedy will be honestly included in historical narratives and educational curricula, enabling younger generations to understand and honor the struggle for reform.
Through this approach, reconciliation and healing of social wounds can emerge. Ultimately, the greatest hope is that this issue does not further divide the nation. Acknowledgment and a sincere apology can pave the way for reconciliation, help survivors heal, and strengthen social solidarity.
