Indonesian Minister: Leader Integrity Key to Fighting Corruption

Indonesia's Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian emphasized that preventing corruption among regional leaders requires more than just robust oversight functions. He stated that strengthening governance and ensuring the integrity of regional heads are paramount to stopping corrupt practices. Karnavian made these remarks following a working meeting with Commission II of the Indonesian House of Representatives in Jakarta.

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What we can do for regional heads is, one, we conduct retreats. The goal is to strengthen their nationalism, their integrity. Then also provide initial training, including the KPK also attends there. BPKP also attends to provide input.

According to Karnavian, a combination of effective oversight systems and the personal integrity of regional officials forms a critical foundation for curbing corruption. He outlined initiatives such as mandatory retreats for regional leaders aimed at reinforcing their nationalism and integrity. These sessions also include training and input from anti-corruption bodies like the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the Development Finance Controller (BPKP).

The Minister acknowledged that regional leaders, unlike officials in a command system, are directly elected by the people. Therefore, the approach to their development focuses on strengthening governmental systems and enhancing their capacity to govern. The Ministry of Home Affairs has developed various oversight tools, including the Regional Government Information System (SIPD), guidelines for Regional Budget Revenue and Expenditure (APBD) preparation, and systems for overseeing regional finances. Furthermore, the government, in collaboration with the KPK and the Attorney General's Office, is advancing an anti-corruption prevention system known as Monitoring, Controlling, Surveillance for Prevention (MCSP).

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But all these systems can be circumvented in the field. There are gratifications and others. Well, this comes back to the integrity of each regional head.

Despite these systemic efforts, Karnavian cautioned that even the best systems can be circumvented. He stressed that ultimately, the integrity of each regional leader is the most crucial factor in preventing corruption, including issues like bribery and illicit gratuities. The high cost of political campaigns for regional leadership positions was also highlighted as a significant issue. Karnavian suggested a potential solution could involve increasing the operational budget for regional heads, tied to a percentage of increased Regional Original Revenue (PAD). This, he believes, would incentivize leaders to improve fiscal performance without burdening the public, though he noted such a change would require thorough study and inter-agency discussion.

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But this is necessary, it needs a study first. It needs discussions between ministries, government agencies, if necessary, also talk with the DPR. Because this is an important decision.