Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia is still conducting research to evaluate whether cannabis can be scientifically proven to have medical benefits. The ongoing studies aim to provide empirical evidence that could inform future policy decisions regarding the plant’s use in healthcare.
Marthinus Hukom, head of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), said that the ongoing studies are taking into account a variety of factors including moral, health, and economic considerations, as the nation weighs its stance on medical marijuana.
“We’re evaluating from many aspects: moral, health, and also economic,” Hukom said after delivering a public lecture at Udayana University in Jimbaran, Badung, Bali, on Tuesday (July 15). “These become the foundation for conducting our research.”
The initiative follows a request from Indonesia’s House of Representatives (DPR), which encouraged BNN to take the lead in researching the potential medical application of cannabis. However, Hukom emphasized that any positive findings would not automatically pave the way for full legalization.
“I don’t support legalization,” he stated. “Legalization implies giving unrestricted access. When it comes to harmful substances like narcotics, we must consider the ethical implications. Why would we legalize something if it has no benefit?”
Hukom said any recognition of cannabis for medical use must be grounded in solid empirical evidence and supported by expert consensus.
“If research proves it has medical benefits, then it should be regulated, not fully legalized,” he said. “It must be properly managed, not left completely unregulated.”
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Hukom confirmed that BNN is actively working on cannabis-related research, with Udayana University among the institutions involved in the scientific studies.
“We’re in the process of determining whether cannabis has valid medical applications,” Hukom explained. “This comes after public demand, conveyed through parliament, prompted further investigation.”
Should the research confirm that cannabis can be used for medical treatment, Hukom said it would be up to the Ministry of Health to establish regulations. He stressed that the key issue is not legalization but controlled regulation.
“Morally, I don’t support legalization,” he said. “But if researchers find that cannabis can be used for treatment, why not? That said, the authority lies with the health ministry, not BNN. So ask the Ministry of Health.”
(Raidi/Agung)
