KPK Chairman Warns Staff to Uphold Integrity, Not Just a Slogan

KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto has warned all his staff to maintain integrity. He said that upholding integrity is not because they are KPK employees, but as a national need for the value of honesty.

The message was delivered when Setyo acted as inspector of the ceremony for the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia at the KPK’s Red and White Building in Kuningan, South Jakarta, on Monday (17/8/2026). He explained that integrity is one of the important elements that every KPK employee must possess.

“As KPK employees, we bear a responsibility that is not light. We are trusted to safeguard one of the important foundations of national life, namely integrity,” said Setyo.

“Therefore, I invite all personnel to continue to maintain integrity, professionalism, and independence. Not because we work at the KPK, but because this nation needs an example that a mandate can be carried out honestly and responsibly,” he continued.

According to him, integrity must emerge not because of strict supervision, but rather from an understanding of honest behaviour. Moreover, he said, maintaining integrity is not merely about seeking the best predicate, but about being the face of the KPK institution itself.

“I understand that the journey of maintaining integrity is not always easy. Challenges always exist, pressure always exists, criticism may even never stop. However, I believe and we all believe that as long as we continue to hold on to the right values, continue to work professionally, and continue to place the nation’s interests above personal interests, the KPK will continue to have important meaning for society and the state,” he said.

He also said that the momentum of independence is always a reminder that struggle is not always carried out on the battlefield. In the present era, he said, struggle can be realised through honest service, sincere public service, the courage to uphold principles, and a commitment not to abuse authority.

“Let us continue to maintain the KPK as an institution trusted by the public. Let us nurture integrity as a living value, not merely a slogan. And let us ensure that what we do every day truly benefits society, the nation, and the state,” Setyo explained.

“Maintain integrity, maintain trust, maintain the honour of the KPK. Because in the end, the strength of an institution is not only determined by the authority it possesses, but by the character of the people who serve within it,” he concluded.