East Kalimantan Governor Returns Rp 8.49 Billion Range Rover Official Vehicle

East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas’ud has formally decided to return the new official vehicle procured from the amended 2025 regional budget (APBD Perubahan). The vehicle, valued at Rp 8.49 billion, had sparked considerable public outcry on social media.

Muhammad Faisal, Head of the East Kalimantan Communication and Information Services (Diskominfo), stated that this decision reflects the Governor’s responsiveness to social dynamics in the region. According to Faisal, the strategic decision was made after extensive consultation with various state oversight institutions.

“The Governor carefully considered input from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Anti-Corruption Commission, and the Supreme Audit Board. He also directly heard concerns from community leaders and religious figures. As a leader committed to his mandate, he chose to prioritise harmony and public trust over executive privileges,” Faisal said in Samarinda, as reported by Antara on Sunday, 1 February 2016.

Faisal explained that the Range Rover 3.0 LWB Autobiography PHEV P460e official vehicle, valued at Rp 8.49 billion, had only recently completed handover procedures on 20 November 2025.

However, Faisal confirmed that the vehicle had never been used on East Kalimantan roads. “The unit remains at the East Kalimantan Liaison Office in Jakarta. Since it has not yet been used for operations, the Governor has ordered the Budget User Authority (KPA) and the Commitment-Making Official (PPK) to immediately process its return,” he added.

He disclosed that administrative cancellation procedures began on Friday. The supplier, CV Afisera Samarinda, reportedly demonstrated cooperation and understanding of the developing situation.

Under applicable legal procedures, the supplier is required to refund the sum of Rp 8,499,936,000 to the regional treasury within a maximum of 14 days following unit return.

Subsequently, Rudy Mas’ud will return to using his personal vehicle to support his official duties as the top official in East Kalimantan.

“This decision demonstrates genuine commitment to good governance principles by the East Kalimantan Provincial Government. The Governor thanks the public for constructive criticism. For him, maintaining integrity and togetherness is far more valuable than luxury facilities,” Faisal concluded.