KPK Highlights Recurring Corruption in Kuansing Following Suhardiman's Arrest

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated that the alleged bribery case involving Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby serves as a crucial reminder of the need to strengthen integrity and corruption prevention in the region, following another graft case implicating a regional head. “When corruption recurs in Kuansing, it tarnishes not only the integrity of state officials but also public trust in the noble values that have long been a source of pride for the Kuansing region,” said KPK Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo at the KPK’s Merah Putih building in Jakarta on Wednesday. He noted that the alleged corrupt practices were linked to strategic regional projects that directly affect the public interest. He further stressed that integrity strengthening and corruption prevention efforts must be carried out consistently to prevent similar cases from happening again. Acting Director of KPK Investigations Achmad Taufik Husein stated that the case involving Suhardiman is the second sting operation conducted by the KPK in Kuantan Singingi Regency. The first occurred in 2021, targeting the then-regent, Andi Putra, in a suspected bribery case related to the extension of a Cultivation Rights Title (HGU). “The first was also a regional head in that area in 2021, namely AP, the Regent of Kuansing for the 2021–2025 period, who was found guilty in a bribery case related to an HGU extension,” Taufik said. Five individuals were brought to the KPK’s Merah Putih building for intensive questioning, including three private sector parties, a civil servant from the Kuantan Singingi Regency government, and Suhardiman’s wife, Suci Nitia Edwar. The KPK subsequently requested Suhardiman and Kuantan Singingi Regional Secretary Zulkarnain to surrender on 30 June 2026. Both were later 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 an alleged bribery case related to the buying and selling of positions within the Kuantan Singingi Regency government, Riau.