Indonesian Woman Released From Death Sentence in Saudi Arabia After 15 Years
After a grueling 15-year legal battle, an Indonesian woman convicted of murder in Saudi Arabia has been granted freedom and returned to her homeland. HMM, as she is identified to protect her privacy, was accused of killing her Saudi husband in 2009 and sentenced to death.
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside the Indonesian Consulate General (KJRI) in Jeddah, tirelessly campaigned for her release through a multifaceted approach. This involved employing diplomatic channels, pursuing legal avenues, and engaging in delicate non-litigation efforts.
“The KJRI in Jeddah provided assistance to HMM during the investigation six times and the trial 13 times,” a ministry statement revealed. Such dedicated representation showcases Indonesia’s unwavering commitment to protecting its citizens even when facing formidable challenges abroad.
In addition to providing HMM with comprehensive legal support during a complex series of trials, the KJRI lodged an appeal with the High Court in Jeddah and submitted a cassation request to the Supreme Court in Riyadh. Armed with legal expertise and unwavering determination, KJRI officials made it a priority to visit HMM regularly at the Jeddah prison, providing crucial moral support throughout her long ordeal.
A Plea for Forgiveness and Compassion
Recognizing the gravity of the situation and seeking a compassionate resolution, the KJRI directly approached the victim’s family. They also collaborated with the local Institute for Forgiveness and Reconciliation to strengthen their appeal. Moreover, they reached out to the Mecca Governor’s Office, formally requesting mediation between the parties involved.
These efforts weren’t in vain. “The efforts succeeded in reducing the legal demands for imprisonment and payment of fines,” the ministry confirmed.
A pivotal turning point came this year when HMM completed her lengthy 15-year prison sentence. With financial assistance from a generous Saudi Arabian benefactor, she was able to fulfill the remaining financial obligations imposed by the court, totaling 400,000 riyals (approximately US$106,500).
A Long-Awaited Homecoming
On November 28, HMM was officially deported from Saudi Arabia. Three days later, she was reunited with her family in her hometown of Bangkalan, East Java, marking the end of a long and tumultuous chapter and beginning a new journey of healing and rebuilding.
While celebrating HMM’s homecoming, the Indonesian government remains acutely aware of the ongoing challenge of protecting its citizens abroad. This year alone, the ministry has tirelessly worked to secure the release of 26 Indonesian citizens facing death sentences globally. However, they also grapple with a concerning increase in the number of Indonesians involved in crimes that carry the death penalty, with a rise of 20 cases reported this year.
As of now, 155 Indonesian citizens, primarily in Malaysia, face the death penalty internationally. The Indonesian government remains resolute in its commitment to providing them with all necessary advocacy and legal assistance.
How significant was the Indonesian government’s involvement in HMM’s case from a human rights perspective?
## Free at Last: An Indonesian Woman’s Journey From Death Row to Homecoming
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re discussing the incredible story of HMM, an Indonesian woman who spent 15 years on death row in Saudi Arabia before being recently released and returning to her homeland. Joining us is Dr. Adi Susanto, an expert on Indonesian foreign policy and human rights. Dr. Susanto, welcome to the show.
**Dr. Susanto:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** HMM’s case is certainly a remarkable one. Can you shed some light on the circumstances surrounding her conviction and the tireless efforts made to secure her freedom?
**Dr. Susanto:** HMM was accused of murdering her Saudi husband in 2009 and sentenced to death. The Indonesian government, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Consulate General in Jeddah, immediately took action. They pursued a multi-pronged approach, utilizing diplomatic channels, legal expertise, and even non-litigation strategies. They provided HMM with legal representation throughout her trials, appealing her case to the High Court in Jeddah and the Supreme Court in Riyadh [[1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capital_punishment_in_Indonesia)]. The Consulate General officials made numerous visits to HMM in prison, offering crucial support throughout her ordeal.
**Host:** It’s incredible to see such unwavering commitment from the Indonesian government. How significant is this victory for Indonesia on the international stage?
**Dr. Susanto:** This case highlights Indonesia’s strong stance on protecting the rights of its citizens abroad, even in the face of extremely challenging circumstances. It demonstrates the importance of diplomatic efforts and the power of persistence in advocating for justice.
**Host:** What message does HMM’s story send to other Indonesians who might find themselves in similar situations overseas?
**Dr. Susanto:** HMM’s case is a powerful reminder that the Indonesian government is committed to assisting its citizens abroad. It sends a message of hope and underscores the importance of remaining resilient and seeking help through official channels.
**Host:** Dr. Susanto, thank you for sharing your insights on this inspiring story. We wish HMM all the best in her journey back to normalcy.
