Wali Nanggroe Institution Gathers Input on Strengthening the Helsinki MoU in Aceh Jaya

The Study Team on the Implementation of the Helsinki MoU and the Law on Governing Aceh (UUPA) from the Wali Nanggroe Institution held a dialogue with the Aceh Jaya District Government on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The meeting was chaired by the Head of Tuha Lapan Wali Nanggroe, Kamaruddin Andalah, as part of drafting strategic recommendations to strengthen the implementation of the Helsinki MoU and UUPA. Kamaruddin emphasized that this visit aimed to gather local experiences and suggestions, not to evaluate the government’s performance. He mentioned that even though peace in Aceh has been ongoing for over 20 years, there are still mandates from the Helsinki MoU and UUPA that need strengthening. The Aceh Jaya District Government highlighted the need for wider dissemination of the Helsinki MoU’s substance down to villages and schools, especially for the younger generation. Additionally, several challenges were identified, such as MoU provisions not yet fully accommodated in the UUPA and national regulations that are seen as limiting regional authority in natural resource management, investment, and public services. The use of the Special Autonomy Fund was also a concern, with proposals for continuous evaluation and stronger coordination among levels of government. One concrete proposal was the construction of a Helsinki MoU Memorial Room in Aceh Jaya as a center for education, historical documentation, and public dialogue. https://www.harianaceh.co.id/2026/07/28/lembaga-wali-nanggroe-serap-aspirasi-penguatan-mou-helsinki-di-aceh-jaya/