Stubbornly Smoking in No-Smoking Zone, Kupang Civil Servant Fined Rp 1 Million

A Civil Servant (ASN) holding the status of a Government Employee with a Work Agreement (PPPK) in Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), has been fined Rp 1 million after being caught smoking in a No-Smoking Zone (KTR). The ASN from the protocol section, named Charles Padja, handed over the fine directly to the Kupang Regency Government through the Regional Secretary (Sekda), Mateldius SJ Sanam, on Monday (13/4/2026). Charles himself admitted to smoking in the prohibited area and expressed his apologies while paying the administrative fine to Sekda Mateldius. “This was purely due to my lapse in judgement, and I promise not to repeat this action again,” he stated. He also extended his deepest apologies to the Kupang Regency Government for the violation. Meanwhile, Sekda Mateldius Sanam expressed appreciation to Charles Padja for his cooperative attitude. Mateldius emphasised that enforcing discipline remains the top priority in creating a healthy and orderly work environment. The fine complies with the provisions in the Regent’s Regulation of Kupang Regency on KTR, serving as a serious warning to all ASN. “We will not hesitate to take action against anyone who violates the rules. Discipline is non-negotiable,” he asserted, when contacted by telephone on Thursday (16/4/2026). The Kupang Regency Government, according to Mateldius, views this enforcement as a tangible implementation of the KTR Regent’s Regulation, expected to have a deterrent effect. “And it can increase employees’ awareness of the importance of complying with regulations. The fine is directly deposited into the regional treasury,” he said. With this enforcement of rules, the resolution can proceed transparently. “The Kupang Regency Government hopes to create a healthier work environment and maintain the positive image of the government institution in the eyes of the public,” Mateldius concluded.