Banjarmasin – The Chief Justice of the Banjarmasin High Court and former chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), Nawawi Pomolango, reminded lawyers to avoid transactional practices such as bribery, emphasizing that they uphold a noble profession (officium nobile) in the field of law.
This important message was delivered during the swearing-in ceremony of members of the Indonesian Advocates Movement Council (DePA-RI) in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan, on July 15, 2025.
The swearing-in ceremony for the new DePA-RI advocates, conducted by the Chief Justice of the Banjarmasin High Court, proceeded smoothly.
Former KPK chairman Nawawi Pomolango further warned that there have been many cases of lawyers and law enforcers—such as prosecutors, judges, and police officers—ending up in prison due to involvement in legal mafias.
He also advised lawyers to have role models, suggesting that Adnan Buyung Nasution (Bang Buyung) and Yap Thiam Hien were exemplary figures in the legal profession.
Both were known as champions of law and justice, remembered for their unquestionable integrity. Though they have passed away, their names remain honored, and their virtues are still spoken of by many.
«Lawyers like them should be emulated, not those who flaunt material wealth or lack proper courtroom decorum. As advocates, you must avoid such misconduct,» Nawawi said.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of DePA-RI congratulated the newly sworn-in advocates.
He mentioned that a previous swearing-in ceremony for DePA-RI advocates had taken place at the Banjarmasin High Court on October 4, 2024, conducted by the then Chief Justice, H Gusrizal, SH, M.Hum (now Chairman of the KPK Supervisory Board for the 2024-2029 term).
This time, on July 15, 2025, the oath-taking was administered by the current Chief Justice of the Banjarmasin High Court and former KPK chairman, Nawawi Pomolango. «This is an honor and recognition for DePA-RI,» said the senior advocate, who had also served in the Supreme Court’s Working Group on Mediation Rules.
The Chairman of DePA-RI further urged the newly sworn-in advocates to uphold their oaths and adhere to the Advocates’ Code of Ethics.
He also reminded DePA-RI lawyers to serve as role models and champions of justice, always ready to assist the weak and those treated unfairly. Additionally, they must continuously improve their skills and knowledge to stay relevant.
Responding to Nawawi Pomolango’s message about having role models, the Chairman of DePA-RI agreed wholeheartedly.
A personal assistant to Adnan Buyung after his studies at Utrecht University in the Netherlands confirmed that Bang Buyung was a lawyer of high integrity who deeply cared about societal and national issues.
«Adnan Buyung Nasution was a principled advocate with a strong sense of nationalism, deeply committed to human rights and the rule of law. The same goes for the legendary lawyer Yap Thiam Hien,» said the Chairman of DePA-RI.
Banjarmasin High Court
The Banjarmasin High Court, located in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan, Indonesia, is a key judicial institution in the region. Established during the Dutch colonial era, it serves as an appellate court for cases from lower courts in the province. The court plays a significant role in upholding justice and legal proceedings in Kalimantan.
Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK)
The **Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK)** is an independent Indonesian government agency established in 2002 to combat corruption through investigation, prosecution, and prevention. It has gained a reputation for high-profile cases and strong enforcement but has also faced political challenges and controversies over its authority. Despite setbacks, the KPK remains a key institution in Indonesia’s anti-corruption efforts.
Indonesian Advocates Movement Council (DePA-RI)
The **Indonesian Advocates Movement Council (Dewan Pergerakan Advokat Indonesia/DePA-RI)** is an organization dedicated to advancing the legal profession and advocating for justice, human rights, and legal reform in Indonesia. Established to strengthen the role of advocates in upholding the rule of law, DePA-RI works to promote professional ethics, legal education, and fair legal practices. While specific historical details are limited, the council aligns with Indonesia’s broader efforts to enhance judicial integrity and legal accountability.
Adnan Buyung Nasution
Adnan Buyung Nasution (1934–2015) was a prominent Indonesian lawyer, human rights activist, and legal reform advocate known for his role in defending political prisoners during Suharto’s New Order regime. He founded the Legal Aid Institute (LBH) in 1970, which became a key organization in promoting justice and human rights in Indonesia. His legacy includes significant contributions to Indonesia’s legal system and democratic reforms.
Yap Thiam Hien
Yap Thiam Hien (1913–1989) was a prominent Indonesian human rights lawyer and advocate known for his courageous defense of justice during Indonesia’s authoritarian regimes. He co-founded the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI) and tirelessly fought for the rights of marginalized groups, including political prisoners and ethnic Chinese Indonesians. His legacy continues to inspire human rights movements in Indonesia today.
Supreme Court’s Working Group on Mediation Rules
The Supreme Court’s Working Group on Mediation Rules is a judicial body tasked with developing and refining mediation guidelines to promote alternative dispute resolution in the legal system. Established to reduce court backlogs and encourage amicable settlements, the group focuses on creating standardized procedures for mediation processes. Its work reflects a broader effort to modernize justice systems by incorporating collaborative and efficient conflict-resolution methods.
Utrecht University
Utrecht University, founded in 1636, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the Netherlands. Located in the historic city of Utrecht, it has played a key role in Dutch academia and research, with notable contributions to fields like humanities, science, and medicine. The university is known for its vibrant student life and its historic campus, which blends modern facilities with centuries-old buildings.
KPK Supervisory Board
The **KPK Supervisory Board** (Dewan Pengawas Komisi Pemberantasan Korupsi) is an oversight body established in 2019 to monitor Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). It was created under a controversial revision to the KPK Law, raising concerns about potential weakening of the anti-corruption agency’s independence. The board reviews KPK’s operations, including investigations and prosecutions, to ensure compliance with regulations.
