Forestry Minister Backs KPK Probe into Kuansing Regent Over Graft Allegations

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has affirmed the Ministry of Forestry’s full support for the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in its investigation of alleged corruption involving the Regent of Kuantan Singingi (Kuansing). Speaking in Jakarta on Thursday, the Minister committed to supporting the law enforcement process to ensure forest governance is transparent, accountable, and free from corrupt practices. “Firstly, I read the news that the KPK has named the Kuansing Regent a suspect. I read it was related to the buying and selling of positions, and then the case developed into the process of releasing forest areas in Kuansing,” said Raja Antoni. He expressed appreciation to the KPK for its consistent efforts in eradicating corruption, noting that this step aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s instructions to the entire cabinet. “President Prabowo Subianto’s orders are clear that all ministers, including myself as Minister of Forestry, must continue to make improvements, ensuring forest governance is transparent, accountable, and free from bribery and corruption,” he stressed. The Minister assured that the Ministry would be open to the entire investigation process. He stated his readiness, along with all staff, to assist investigators, whether by providing documents or giving testimony if required. “We from the ministry will be cooperative. If documents are needed, if we need to be summoned, God willing, I will comply, because this is in the context of eradicating corruption and improving our forestry sector,” he added. The KPK previously conducted a sting operation in Kuantan Singingi and Jakarta on 30 June, detaining 10 individuals. The following day, the KPK officially named Kuansing Regent Suhardiman Amby, Zulkarnain, and the President Director of PT Mitra Ideal Consultant, Ardiles, as suspects in a bribery case related to the buying and selling of positions within the Kuansing Regency Government. The case has since expanded to include alleged links to the process of releasing forest areas in the region, which is now the focus of coordination between the KPK and the Ministry of Forestry.