Press Article: The Axiological Dilemma of Indonesia’s Nuclear Ambitions
Jakarta—As Indonesia contemplates its nuclear energy future, a comprehensive examination reveals that the core issue is not merely technical feasibility but deeply rooted in national values and institutional integrity.
Over the past year, the discourse around Indonesia’s nuclear aspirations has been viewed through three main lenses: geopolitical alignments, cultural values, and structural limitations. While these aspects have merit, they fail to address the underlying axiology—what essential values drive Indonesia’s nuclear decisions?
Nuclear energy is not merely a technological fix; it serves as a litmus test for institutional discipline, demanding long-term planning and steadfast adherence to safety protocols. Although the environmental benefits are substantial, these cannot materialize within a framework riddled with systemic corruption and regulatory leniency. History shows that in environments where oversight is weak, even the safest designs pose significant public risks.
Indonesia has explored nuclear power since the 1950s, with recent interest focusing on thorium reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs). However, these technologies remain largely unproven, yet significant investments are being made, bypassing established global designs in favor of untested concepts.
The political culture in Indonesia complicates this landscape. Institutions like Bapeten, tasked with overseeing nuclear safety, often operate under broader political influences that allow for circumvention of crucial safety protocols. According to Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index, Indonesia scores a mere 37 out of 100, indicating substantial institutional vulnerability which poses a direct threat to any sustainable nuclear implementation.
Ultimately, Indonesia’s nuclear ambitions hinge not on the choice of technology but on the ethical foundations of the systems intended to govern it. As the nation navigates this path, it must confront whether its institutional frameworks can uphold the integrity, transparency, and accountability essential for a viable nuclear future.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
