Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono’s decision to grant clemency to convicted Australian drug smuggler Schapelle Corby may complicate Indonesia’s stance in relation to Australia. Corby’s 20-year sentence in Kerobokan Prison in Bali will be reduced by 5 years.

State Secretary Sui Silalahi and Human Rights Minister Amir Syamsuddin criticized the decision, saying that Indonesia should have asked concessions from Australia in exchange for the clemency, such as releasing detained underage Indonesians and ensuring Indonesian fishermen caught in Australian waters are justly treated.

Corby was arrested in 2004 for smuggling 4.1 kilos of marijuana from Australia. The Supreme Court recommended the clemency. Amir said the clemency was granted on the basis that marijuana was not considered as dangerous as heroin. However, Indonesia’s firm stance against drug trafficking is highlighted in Corby’s 20-year jail sentence and it will continue pursue drug smugglers.