Learn from the Fadia Arafiq Case, KPK Urges Entertainers to Learn When Entering Politics

Jakarta, VIVA – The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) believes that an entertainer or performer who decides to enter politics must learn about politics. “Of course this must be followed by, yes, because the world is a new world, the political world, yes learn about politics, something like that,” said Deputy for Enforcement and Execution at the KPK Asep Guntur Rahayu in a press conference in Jakarta, on Thursday. He made the remarks after Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq, following her arrest by the KPK, admitted that she did not know the law and governance because before taking office she was not a bureaucrat, but a dangdut singer. Meanwhile, when discussing the KPK’s view on political party recruitment of performers or public figures who become regional leaders after Fadia Arafiq’s statements, Asep said it depends on each individual. “We think it depends on the individuals. We cannot generalise that an entertainer entering politics, then in politics it will not work,” he said. He noted many examples of performers who, upon entering politics, have a good understanding of governance. “Many have also been successful, like those currently in the DPR; there are many entertainers there. I think they have been very successful too. So, it depends on the individual,” he added. He also cited Ronald Reagan, who started in the entertainment world and then could become President of the United States. “In other countries, you can see Ronald Reagan. That was a long time ago, if I’m not mistaken, a film star. He also succeeded. So, it depends on the individual’s, how that person wants to work there and immerse themselves when becoming a public official,” he said. Earlier, on 3 March 2026, the KPK arrested Fadia Arafiq together with aides and trusted associates in the Semarang area, Central Java. Subsequently, the KPK announced the arrest of 11 others from Pekalongan, Central Java. The string of arrests was part of the KPK’s seventh sting operation (OTT) in 2026 and coincided with Ramadan. On 4 March 2026, the KPK designated Fadia Arafiq as a sole suspect in a case of alleged corruption related to outsourcing services or manpower outsourcing, and other procurements within the Pekalongan Regency government for the 2023-2026 budget year. (Ant)