Legal Examination of New Money Laundering Schemes Using Digital Assets and Decentralized Finance in Indonesia

Umar Husin; Hargianti Dini Iswandari; Indra Yuliawan

doi:10.59890/ijla.v4i3.237

Authors

Umar Husin Universitas Nasional Jakarta
Hargianti Dini Iswandari Universitas Ngudi Waluyo
Indra Yuliawan Universitas Ngudi Waluyo

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59890/ijla.v4i3.237

Keywords:

Anti-Money Laundering, Decentralized Finance, Digital Assets, Indonesian Law, Money Laundering Schemes

Abstract

The rapid growth of digital assets and decentralized finance (DeFi) has enabled anonymous, cross-border, and non-custodial money laundering schemes that challenge Indonesia’s conventional anti-money laundering (AML) regime. This study critically examines the adequacy of Indonesia’s AML regulations in addressing DeFi-based laundering and identifies the need for more adaptive legal policies. Using normative legal research with legislative, conceptual, and case-based approaches, the analysis draws on laws, regulations, and relevant literature. The findings show that while Indonesia has a foundational AML framework, it remains insufficient to address DeFi’s decentralized characteristics and limited regulatory control. The study concludes that adaptive AML reforms are necessary to enhance enforcement effectiveness and safeguard the integrity and stability of the national financial system.

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