At Schinder Law Firm, the commemoration of Independence Day was distinguished not only by fellowship but also by words of reflection and wisdom. We are pleased to share in full the addresses delivered by Ms. Naz Schinder, Founder and Managing Partner, together with Prof. Dr. Otto Cornelis Kaligis and Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Rahmadi Supancana, Senior Advisors to the firm—each underscoring the enduring union of law and liberty.
Independence Day Message by Ms. Naz Schinder
Founder and Managing Partner
Dear mentors, colleagues, friends, good afternoon!
It is a great honour to join you all on this special day—Indonesia’s Independence Day. Today is not only a time to celebrate freedom, but also to reflect on the values that have brought us here: courage, solidarity, and determination to build a better future.
Independence is not just a historic milestone—it is a living spirit. It is the courage to stand for justice, the tenacity to persevere in the face of challenges, and the wisdom to work together across differences.
Having lived in Indonesia for more than twenty years, I have felt deeply that these values are woven into the country’s DNA. I have witnessed a nation that embraces diversity, fosters cooperation, and always moves forward in unity.
In today’s world, the law is one of the most powerful guardians of independence. It ensures fairness, protects rights, and builds a foundation of trust. At Schinder Law Firm, our mission has always been to help individuals and businesses from different countries establish roots here, grow, and contribute to Indonesia’s development. From this perspective, our work is not merely to provide legal services but to empower people so that they can take part fully in the life and future of this country.
Independence also brings responsibility—especially for the younger generation. The world is changing rapidly, and the challenges are becoming increasingly complex. Yet, so long as we uphold the values of courage, solidarity, and justice, there is nothing we cannot achieve. I hope that each of us, in our own way, continues to build bridges—connecting communities, nations, and generations.
On this day of celebration, let us remember that independence must not only be guarded but also practiced—in our daily lives and in our work with one another. Now, I am greatly honoured to invite two professors who have made remarkable contributions in the fields of law and academia—Prof. OC Kaligis and Prof. IBR Supancana—to share their thoughts with us.
Thank you all, and Happy Independence Day.
Independence Day Message by Prof. Dr. OC Kaligis
Senior Advisor
Madam Naz, Prof. Supancana, distinguished colleagues and friends,
First and foremost, I wish to express my gratitude—for myself and on behalf of my office—for the kind invitation to celebrate Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day together.
As we all know, Indonesia is recognised as a state founded upon the rule of law. Therefore, as members of this legal society, it is our duty to play an active role in upholding justice and truth. I began my journey as a legal adviser without any formal apprenticeship. For me, law is logic—a discipline of reasoning that progresses from major premise to minor premise and, ultimately, to conclusion.
In criminal matters especially, the question is always whether the prosecutor’s indictment is supported by evidence and witnesses. From helping the powerless to representing conglomerates, I have walked a long road. Looking back, I can say that in the world of law, I have experienced nearly everything—save for death itself.
Why do I say this? Because in the past, I often took on dangerous cases. For instance, I once filed pre-trial proceedings against military officers—a rarity in those times when many lawyers would shy away in fear.
Much of my legal work was reported by Kompas and Tempo. I frequently used the letters section of Kompas to criticise government officials, something rarely done by lawyers then. Through such boldness in defending the law, I gradually became known, eventually being appointed as one of the legal counsels to President Soeharto in his time of need.
Though I began with small cases, three Presidents of the Republic of Indonesia entrusted me with their legal matters: President Soeharto, President Habibie, and President Prabowo.
Over my career of more than forty years, I have also represented cases abroad alongside local counsel. Many of my former assistants have since earned doctoral degrees—thirty-eight in total—and four have become professors, myself included.
The struggle for justice never ends. Especially in this era of reform, corruption cases abound, and lawyers play a central role. In foreign investment, expertise in corporate law is essential, yet many civil agreements are still subjected to arbitration in Singapore—reflecting the continuing lack of trust in Indonesia’s dispute resolution. This is a call for us to keep striving for stronger corporate legal frameworks that will win the world’s confidence.
Let us not tire in defending the rule of law in Indonesia.
Once again, my sincere thanks to Madam Naz for inviting me to join this celebration of our nation’s 80th Independence Day.
Justice shall prevail.
Independence Day Message by Prof. Dr. IBR Supancana
Senior Advisor
Respected Madam Naz Schinder, Prof. OC Kaligis, esteemed colleagues, and honoured guests,
Let us begin with gratitude to Almighty God, for it is by His grace that we may gather here today in thanksgiving to commemorate the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia. This commemoration is not merely ceremonial, but a moment to reflect upon the long journey of our nation and to renew our commitment to the noble ideals of our founders.
As Senior Advisor to Schinder Law Firm, I am deeply honoured to stand here, celebrating our independence with the Schinder family. The freedom we cherish today is the fruit of sacrifice, unity, and an unyielding spirit of struggle. Our task is to safeguard it, enrich it, and continue it through our respective roles—in law, in consultancy, and in enterprise.
I firmly believe, as Madam Naz has emphasised, that collaboration across generations is the key to national progress. The youth bring energy, creativity, and fresh perspectives; the senior generation offers experience, wisdom, and guidance. Together, they not only preserve past achievements but also soar higher to reach greater dreams and fulfil our shared aspirations. Indonesia is a great nation with extraordinary potential. That potential can only be realised if harnessed through hard work, unity, and collective spirit. These same values once delivered us to independence, and they will lead us toward even greater success in the future.
I am confident that Schinder Law Firm, with its dedication and integrity, will continue to play a meaningful role in building the nation. Our presence here affirms that the legal and professional community is a pillar of national progress and a guardian of justice. Let us therefore celebrate this Independence Day with gratitude and a renewed determination to serve. May God Almighty bless our steps, grant us strength, and guide us in advancing Indonesia with dignity.
Long live the Republic of Indonesia!
Merdeka!
The words spoken at this commemoration serve as a reminder that independence is both a gift and a responsibility. For Schinder Law Firm, the rule of law remains the cornerstone of service to the nation, ensuring that freedom is upheld not only in principle but in daily practice. May the spirit of independence continue to inspire justice, unity, and progress for Indonesia.
Author:
Schinder Team