Indonesian minister explains return of envelope before bribery sting

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has clarified the circumstances surrounding an envelope he received from the Regent of Kuantan Singingi, Suhardiman Amby, during a meeting on June 2. Antoni stated that he returned the envelope without knowing its contents, citing moral responsibility and his commitment to combating corruption.

The clarification comes after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) indicated it might question Antoni as part of its investigation into alleged bribery related to the release of limited production forest areas in Kuantan Singingi, Riau. The KPK is also investigating alleged gratuities received by the Regent.

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On June 12, 17 days before the sting operation, as a matter of my moral responsibility, as a commitment to eradicating corruption, I returned the envelope, the contents of which I actually did not know.

Antoni explained that the meeting with Amby was officially requested by the Kuantan Singingi Regency government. He asserted that the ministry possesses official records, including the request letter, attendance list, and meeting minutes, which can be provided to investigators. He only realized an envelope was left behind after Amby departed and, feeling he had no right to it, instructed his aide to return it.

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I did not know what was inside, but I felt I had no right to the envelope and I asked my aide to return it.

The return of the envelope was initially planned for June 5 but was delayed due to the minister's official engagements. A formal assignment letter was issued on June 11 for the envelope's return. Antoni's aide successfully handed the envelope back to Amby on June 12 at 2:57 PM, 17 days before the KPK's sting operation. The return was documented with a stamped receipt signed by Amby.

Furthermore, Antoni denied issuing any approvals for the release of forest areas in Kuantan Singingi, stating that no such permits or decrees were issued under his authority. He emphasized the ministry's cooperation with the KPK in providing necessary documents and information.

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There is not a single letter, not one decree that I issued for the release of forest areas in Kuantan Singingi.