Social Minister ready to receive KPK input for improving People's School governance

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) has stated that he is prepared to receive every input from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to improve the governance of the People’s School so as to avoid corrupt procurement practices.

“We need inputs and suggestions so that in the future, in implementing this strategic programme of the President of the Republic of Indonesia, it is not marred by incorrect processes, deviations, let alone corruption. That becomes part of our determination to carry out prevention efforts, as well as the best forward suggestions in accordance with the provisions,” said Gus Ipul in Jakarta on Thursday.

He emphasised that every piece of advice, input, and suggestion from the KPK is a very important evaluation to be followed up in the context of improving the People’s School programme.

“Next, we will follow up (including regarding the procurement of People’s School shoes). What we should convey, of course, we will convey. Thank you to the KPK leadership for giving time, and this is a good opportunity for us to evaluate the implementation in 2025,” he explained.

“Once again, I want this strategic programme of Mr President, which is intended for the most disadvantaged families, not to be sullied by bad things, especially if there is a process that can be categorised as corruption. I think that is the most important,” he stated.

Previously, the KPK stated that it is open to becoming a partner of the Ministry of Social Affairs to prevent corruption in the People’s School programme.

“In the framework of corruption prevention, the KPK is certainly open to becoming an early mitigation partner,” said KPK Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo.

Moreover, he said, the KPK, in its prevention duties and functions, is currently examining the potential for corruption in the programme.

“Yes, we will map how that policy is, how it is implemented in the field, how its business processes are, including in the scope of procurement of goods and services, yes,” he said.

Furthermore, he stated that the KPK, in that study, will look at the procurement planning process for goods and services, such as the preparation of the estimated price (HPS) up to the tender process.