Indonesian Judges to Receive Increased Allowances Starting 2026

New Regulation to Improve Judicial Welfare

The Indonesian government has officially increased allowances for judges starting January 2026, as stipulated in Government Regulation (PP) Number 42/2025. This regulatory change aims to enhance the welfare of judges across Indonesia, potentially strengthening the country's judicial system.

Details of the Allowance Increase

The new regulation was confirmed by Suharto, Vice Chairman of the Supreme Court (MA) for Judicial Affairs. According to Suharto, the implementation details typically appear at the end of the government regulation, specifying when the new allowances take effect. The new compensation structure is expected to be reflected in the February salary payments, as the January salary is typically processed in early December, and February's in early January.

Scope and Exclusions

While the increased allowances will benefit regular judges, it's important to note that this change does not apply to ad hoc judges. This exclusion includes ad hoc judges handling specialized cases such as corruption, fisheries, and human rights violations. The distinction between regular and ad hoc judges creates a two-tier system within the judicial framework.

Implications for the Judicial System

The allowance increase is expected to have positive implications for judicial independence and the overall effectiveness of Indonesia's legal system. By improving judges' financial welfare, the government aims to reduce potential vulnerabilities to external influences and enhance the integrity of judicial decisions.