KPK Rejects Forestry Minister's Gratuity Report Linked to Kuansing Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has announced it rejected a report from Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni regarding the refusal of a gratuity in the form of an envelope from the non-active Regent of Kuantan Singingi (Kuansing), Suhardiman Ambyar. KPK Deputy for Prevention and Monitoring Aminudin told journalists in Jakarta on Friday that the commission decided to reject or not process Raja Juli’s report because the anti-graft body is already investigating the alleged bribery case involving Suhardiman Ambyar. Aminudin explained that according to KPK Regulation 1/2026 on Gratuity Reporting, the KPK rejects a gratuity report if the reported gratuity is already within the scope of an inspection, investigation, or inquiry by law enforcement agencies. Previously, the KPK conducted a sting operation in Kuantan Singingi Regency and Jakarta on 29 June 2026, securing 10 individuals. This operation marked the 14th sting operation carried out by the KPK in 2026. Suhardiman Ambyar and Kuansing Regional Secretary Zulkarnain subsequently surrendered to the KPK on 30 June 2026. On 1 July 2026, the KPK named Suhardiman Ambyar, 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 Kuantan Singingi Regency Government from 2021 to 2026. Following the implication of his name in the case, Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni explained on 3 July 2026 that during an audience with Suhardiman on 2 June 2026, the regent left behind a sealed envelope. Raja Juli stated he only realised the envelope was left after Suhardiman had departed and subsequently ordered his aide to return it without knowing its contents. The return of the envelope was carried out on 12 June 2026 after a delay due to scheduling conflicts.