KPK Views Nyepi as a Powerful Metaphor for Anti-Corruption Efforts

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) views Nyepi Day, the New Year Saka 1948/2026 CE, as a powerful metaphor in the efforts to eradicate corruption. “This is because corrupt practices often begin with a failure to exercise self-restraint, when conscience is ignored and personal interests override public interests,” said KPK Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo to journalists in Jakarta on Thursday. He continued, “The values of tapa, brata, yoga, and semadi inherent in Nyepi teach self-control, clarity of mind, and the courage to return to true values.” Furthermore, he hopes that Nyepi can serve as a moment of reflection and a reminder that the war against corruption does not only take place in the realms of law enforcement but also within each individual, such as when choosing to be honest, rejecting gratifications, and not misusing authority no matter how small. Moreover, he said, Nyepi presents a rare pause, a space of silence to stop for a moment from the hustle and bustle and reorganise one’s inner direction. “In that silence, reflection becomes clearer, especially regarding honesty, integrity, and ethical boundaries that must not be violated,” he stated. Meanwhile, he conveyed KPK’s Nyepi greetings to all Hindus celebrating it. “Through the spirit of Nyepi, KPK invites all elements of the nation to strengthen integrity as the main foundation because an Indonesia free from corruption can only be realised when reflection gives birth to awareness, and awareness transforms into real actions,” he said. KPK also hopes that Nyepi brings peace, clarity of conscience, and reinforces collective commitment to building clean, integrity-based, and corruption-free governance.