End of Controversy Surrounding East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud's New Official Vehicle Worth Rp 8.49 Billion

Samarinda – East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas’ud has formally decided to return a new official vehicle procured from the 2025 revised regional budget (APBD Perubahan), valued at Rp 8.49 billion, which had sparked significant controversy on social media.

Muhammad Faisal, head of the East Kalimantan Communication and Information Service (Diskominfo), stated in Samarinda on Sunday that this decision reflects the Governor’s sensitivity to the evolving social dynamics in the region.

According to Faisal, this strategic decision was made following in-depth consultations with various state oversight institutions. “The Governor reviewed feedback from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the KPK, and the BPK. He also directly heard concerns from community leaders and religious figures. As a leader who upholds public trust, he chose to prioritise harmony and public confidence above executive facilities,” Faisal explained.

The official vehicle in question is a Range Rover 3.0 LWB Autobiography PHEV P460e worth Rp 8.49 billion, which was formally handed over on 20 November 2025. However, Faisal confirmed that the vehicle has not yet been used operationally anywhere in East Kalimantan.

“The unit remains at the East Kalimantan Liaison Office in Jakarta. Since it has never been used, the Governor instructed the Budget User Authority (KPA) and Budget Commitment Official (PPK) to immediately process its return,” Faisal added.

Administrative procedures for the cancellation began last Friday, with the supplier CV Afisera Samarinda reported to be cooperative and understanding of the situation. Under applicable legal mechanisms, the supplier must refund Rp 8,499,936,000 to the regional treasury within a maximum of 14 days following receipt of the returned unit.

This decisive action is expected to mark the end of the public controversy that had intensified in recent weeks. As a consequence, Governor Mas’ud will revert to using his personal vehicle to support his official duties as the provincial leader.

“This decision is concrete evidence of East Kalimantan’s commitment to good governance principles. The Governor thanks the public for their constructive criticism. For him, maintaining integrity and solidarity is far more valuable than luxury facilities,” Faisal concluded.