Aceh Tamiang, Indonesia – The Aceh Tamiang Branch of the Indonesian Advocacy Agency (DPC BAI Aceh Tamiang) has expressed concern over the alleged emergence of activities involving the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community in Aceh Tamiang Regency, calling on the local government, law enforcement agencies, religious leaders, traditional leaders, and the wider community to address the issue responsibly and in accordance with the law, stated in Karang Baru on Saturday (18/7/2026).
DPC BAI Aceh Tamiang Chairman Syamsul said the organization had received various reports and public concerns regarding indications of such activities. However, he emphasized that all information must first be verified by the competent authorities and should never be used as a basis for judging or accusing any individual without sufficient evidence.
“DPC BAI encourages the local government and relevant authorities to take preventive measures through public education, moral guidance, strengthening religious values, and law enforcement in accordance with applicable laws and regulations,” Syamsul said.
He noted that Aceh, as a province with special autonomy in implementing Islamic law, has legal provisions that must be respected by all members of society. Therefore, any social issues should be addressed through lawful procedures while upholding the principles of justice and due process.
DPC BAI also urged the public not to spread unverified information, engage in vigilantism, or carry out acts of harassment or persecution against any individual or group. Any suspected violation of the law, the organization said, should be reported to the relevant authorities for professional handling.
In addition, DPC BAI encouraged the local government to strengthen youth development programs through character education, religious activities, family empowerment, and digital literacy initiatives as part of broader efforts to prevent social problems within the community.
As of the time this report was prepared, no official statement had been issued by the local government or law enforcement authorities confirming any increase in LGBT-related cases or activities specifically in Aceh Tamiang Regency. DPC BAI therefore called on all parties to rely on verified facts, credible data, and established legal processes when responding to the issue.
By SIP Simanjuntak
