Education Group Slams Langkat Regent Over Alleged School Uniform Corruption

The National Coordinator of the Education and Teacher Association (P2G), Satriwan Salim, has strongly condemned the alleged corruption case involving the Langkat Regent, Syah Afandin, concerning the procurement of school uniforms. Salim described the incident as detrimental to parents already struggling with the high cost of education.

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We, as an education and teacher organization, strongly condemn the incident of uniform corruption, whether for elementary, junior high, or other levels. This clearly harms parents amidst the still-high cost of education.

"We, as an education and teacher organization, strongly condemn the incident of uniform corruption, whether for elementary, junior high, or other levels. This clearly harms parents amidst the still-high cost of education," Satriwan stated. He acknowledged that corruption remains a significant issue in national education governance, with many regional heads exploiting education budgets for illicit gains.

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It turns out that the regional heads are the ones enjoying the uniforms, taking the opportunity or niche for corruption from the procurement of these uniforms.

Satriwan urged the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the Attorney General's Office to closely monitor procurement projects in the education sector. He encouraged parents to report any irregularities without fear, emphasizing that corruption in education undermines character building, integrity, and honesty among students.

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And don't be afraid, parents, to report, because if corruption occurs in education, how can character building, integrity, and honesty be developed?

Regent Afandin was apprehended in a sting operation on Thursday, July 2, where investigators seized hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash, believed to be project fees from private contractors. He is suspected of demanding commissions of 10 to 17 percent for projects, particularly in the Education and Public Works departments. The KPK also uncovered alleged illicit receipts totaling Rp3.5 billion related to official appointments, school principal selections, and the procurement of school uniforms.

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We urge law enforcement officials to be truly firm in cracking down on this case. So that the very large education budget can truly fulfill the rights of students and teachers to achieve quality learning outcomes.