Indonesian KPK may question Forestry Minister in Kuansing land bribery case

Indonesian investigators are exploring the possibility of questioning Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni as part of an ongoing bribery investigation. The case involves allegations of gratification received by Kuansing Regent Suhardiman Amby concerning the release of Protected Forest Areas (HPT) in Riau.

Budi Prasetyo, a spokesperson for the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), indicated that investigators may summon anyone whose testimony is deemed necessary to support the initial evidence. While no witnesses have been scheduled for questioning as of July 2, 2026, Prasetyo noted that the KPK remains open to calling individuals as needed throughout the investigation.

Prasetyo emphasized that witnesses provide crucial information to investigators, supplementing the evidence already gathered. He also pointed out that bribery related to official positions is a recurring modus operandi, citing a previous instance involving ZKN during his appointment as Head of the Public Works and Public Housing Agency in Kuansing.

Reports from Riau suggest Suhardiman met with Minister Raja Juli Antoni on June 2, 2026, to discuss the Kuansing Regency government's plan to allocate 3,800 hectares for the Agrarian Reform Land Object (TORA) program. The KPK suspects Suhardiman received gratification linked to the HPT land release, an allegation that emerged during his questioning following a sting operation in Kuansing. The KPK is further investigating whether these alleged funds were distributed to other parties.