Three Panitia Kecil Formed in the Second BPUPKI Session
The Preparatory Committee for Indonesian Independence (BPUPKI) was a pivotal body established during the Japanese occupation of Indonesia. Its second session, held from June 10 to June 17, 1945, marked a significant milestone in shaping the future of Indonesia. The session witnessed the formation of three crucial sub-committees (panitia kecil) that played instrumental roles in drafting the constitution and laying the foundation for an independent Indonesia.
These three panitia kecil were:
Panitia Sembilan (Committee of Nine)
The Panitia Sembilan was a nine-member committee tasked with drafting the preamble (Mukaddimah) and the general principles of the Indonesian Constitution. Led by Sukarno, the committee played a pivotal role in defining the philosophical and ideological basis of the new Indonesian state.
Preamble to the Constitution
The preamble, crafted by the Panitia Sembilan, serves as a concise declaration of the nation’s ideals, aspirations, and principles. It enunciates the belief in one God, humanitarianism, national unity, democracy, social justice, and prosperity. The preamble lays the foundation for the values and principles that guide the Indonesian nation.
General Principles of the Constitution
Beyond the preamble, the Panitia Sembilan also formulated general principles for the Indonesian Constitution. These principles provide broad guidelines for the structure and functioning of the Indonesian government and society. They include the principles of popular sovereignty, separation of powers, and the rule of law.
Panitia Penyelidik Usaha-Usaha Persiapan Kemerdekaan Indonesia (Committee for Investigating Efforts towards Indonesian Independence)
The Panitia Penyelidik Usaha-Usaha Persiapan Kemerdekaan Indonesia was a committee responsible for examining and coordinating efforts towards Indonesian independence. This committee, led by Muhammad Yamin, aimed to gather information and perspectives from various groups and individuals on the path to independence.
Survey of Aspirations and Ideas
The Panitia Penyelidik conducted a thorough survey to gauge the aspirations and ideas of the Indonesian people regarding independence. They sought input from political organizations, community leaders, intellectuals, and ordinary citizens. The findings of this survey served as a valuable resource for shaping the agenda and policies of the BPUPKI.
Coordination of Independence Efforts
The committee also played a crucial role in coordinating efforts towards independence. It facilitated communication and collaboration among various political groups and organizations, ensuring a unified front in the pursuit of Indonesian self-determination.
Panitia Perancang Undang-Undang Dasar (Constitution Drafting Committee)
The Panitia Perancang Undang-Undang Dasar was a committee tasked with drafting a detailed constitution for the new Indonesian state. This committee, led by Soepomo, was responsible for translating the general principles formulated by the Panitia Sembilan into a comprehensive legal framework.
Drafting the Constitution
The Constitution Drafting Committee tirelessly worked to create a coherent and comprehensive constitution for Indonesia. They drew inspiration from various sources, including the Indonesian Constitution of 1945, the Dutch Constitution of 1922, and the US Constitution of 1787. The resulting draft constitution laid the groundwork for the Indonesian legal system and the governance of the new nation.
Conclusion
The formation of these three panitia kecil during the second BPUPKI session marked a critical turning point in the Indonesian independence movement. These committees laid the foundation for the Indonesian Constitution, outlined the philosophical and ideological principles of the new state, and coordinated efforts towards self-governance. Their work laid the groundwork for the democratic and independent Indonesia that we know today.
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