Forestry Minister fully supports KPK investigation into Kuansing case

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has affirmed the Ministry of Forestry’s full support for the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) investigation into alleged corruption implicating the Regent of Kuantan Singingi (Kuansing). In a statement in Jakarta on Thursday, the minister committed to supporting the law enforcement process and ensuring that forest governance is conducted transparently, accountably, 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. The minister further expressed his appreciation to the KPK for continuing its anti-corruption duties. “I appreciate my colleagues at the KPK who continue to work to eradicate corruption. The order from President Prabowo Subianto is clear that all ministers, including me as Forestry Minister, must continue to make improvements, forest governance that is transparent, accountable, free from bribery and free from corruption,” he said. He confirmed that the Ministry of Forestry is open to the entire investigation process conducted by the KPK. Raja Antoni also stated he is ready to assist with documents or testimony if required by the KPK. “Therefore, I appreciate it, and at the same time we will be cooperative from the ministry, myself, all staff. If documents are needed, if we need to be summoned, I am summoned, God willing we will fulfil it because once again this is in the context of eradicating corruption, improving our forestry sector,” he said. Furthermore, Minister Raja Antoni reiterated that this commitment is a form of full support for anti-corruption efforts as well as an attempt to strengthen governance in the forestry sector to make it more professional, clean, and with integrity. He stressed that the Ministry of Forestry will respect all ongoing legal processes and will not hinder the investigation. “I emphasise once again, we appreciate the KPK’s work, we fully support it, and we will be cooperative in all legal processes,” he stated. Previously, the KPK conducted a sting operation in Kuantan Singingi and Jakarta on 30 June 2026, securing 10 individuals. Of that number, five were taken to the KPK’s Red and White Building for intensive examination. The KPK then requested Suhardiman Amby and Zulkarnain to surrender themselves. Both complied with the summons and were picked up by investigators at Soekarno-Hatta Airport. On 1 July 2026, the KPK named Suhardiman Amby, Zulkarnain, and the President Director of PT Mitra Ideal Consultant, Ardiles, as suspects in a case of alleged bribery related to the buying and selling of positions within the Kuantan Singingi Regency Government.