At Nordic Right, we are committed to advocating for and upholding human rights across the Nordic Region and beyond. We stand firmly against any violations of international laws and principles that threaten the well-being and security of individuals anywhere in the world.
Recent disclosures of questionable arms deals between Indonesia and Myanmar have raised serious concerns within the international human rights community. We join the chorus of voices in condemning these actions and demanding accountability for those involved.
A complaint, filed with Indonesia’s National Human Rights Commission on October 2, has been submitted by prominent human rights advocate Marzuki Darusman, Salai Za Uk Ling from the Chin Human Rights Organization, and the Myanmar Accountability Project (MAP), an international human rights organization based in London. The complaint alleges that three state-owned Indonesian arms manufacturers, namely PT Pindad, PT PAL, and PT Dirgantara Indonesia, have engaged in the promotion and suspected sale of weaponry, including handguns, assault rifles, ammunition, combat vehicles, and other equipment to Myanmar’s military over the last decade. This alleged conduct, if proven true, is in clear violation of both Indonesian and international law.
The complaint also highlights the potential involvement of Myanmar-based companies, including the arms broker True North Company Limited, owned by Htoo Htoo Shein Oo, the son of Myanmar’s Planning and Finance Minister, Win Shein. It is important to note that Win Shein is already sanctioned by the United States, Canada, and the European Union for his role in undermining democracy and the rule of law in Myanmar.
Indonesia, as a responsible member of the international community, voted in favor of the UN General Assembly Resolution calling for all UN member states to prevent arms flow to Myanmar. If these reported arms sales have occurred since the 2021 coup, they represent a clear violation of Indonesia’s international commitments.
MAP director Chris Gunness rightly states, “Our investigation has turned up damning evidence that suggests shocking double standards.” This situation not only tarnishes Indonesia’s reputation but also raises concerns about the region’s stability and peace.
Furthermore, this complaint may have legal repercussions under Indonesia’s universal jurisdiction cases, potentially allowing Myanmar’s military to be tried in Indonesian courts for its human rights abuses. As Chris Gunness pointed out, this complaint aligns with the Indonesian Constitutional Court’s demands.
In a related case, Singapore has already taken steps to address illicit arms sales. Two Singaporeans who sold a sonar system to Myanmar’s Navy have admitted to breaking Singapore’s regulations governing the sale of strategic goods, including weapons. Although they were ordered to pay fines totaling 80,000 Singapore dollars, a seemingly modest penalty given the value of the deal, it is crucial to ensure that legal enforcement remains robust and effective in preventing such activities in the future.
The export of arms to the Myanmar junta has been a pressing issue since the 2021 coup, and we must stress the importance of international cooperation to address this problem. While some countries may evade scrutiny, we urge Indonesia, a democracy known for free speech and accountability, to investigate these allegations thoroughly. The responsibility now falls on the shoulders of Indonesia’s National Human Rights Commission to take appropriate action to ensure that human rights and international obligations are upheld.
Nordic Right remains committed to monitoring and advocating for the protection of human rights not only in the Nordic Region but across the globe. We call on governments, international bodies, and all concerned citizens to join us in condemning these arms deals and demanding justice for the people of Myanmar.
