KPK Investigates Minister of Forestry Over Returned Envelope in Bribery Case

Investigators from Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) are reportedly looking into a bribery case that involves the Minister of Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni, and the Regent of Kuantan Singingi, Suhardiman Amby. The investigation centers on allegations of bribery related to the release of limited production forest areas in the Kuantan Singingi Regency, Riau.

Raja Juli Antoni has stated that he returned an envelope that was left by Regent Suhardiman Amby following a meeting at the Ministry of Forestry on June 2, 2026. Antoni claims his aide returned the envelope to Suhardiman on June 12, 2026, seventeen days before the KPK conducted a sting operation in the regency. He asserted that he did not know the contents of the envelope but felt he had no right to it, returning it as a matter of moral responsibility and commitment to eradicating corruption.

The KPK has acknowledged that investigators are working on the case and has refrained from providing further details regarding the return of the envelope. Raja Juli Antoni's statement came after the KPK indicated they might question him as part of the investigation into alleged gratuities received by Suhardiman Amby in connection with the forest area release.

Antoni further stated that the meeting with Suhardiman was officially requested and conducted openly. He mentioned that the Ministry possesses records, including the request letter, attendance list, and minutes, which can be provided to investigators if needed. He also claimed that the return of the envelope was documented with a signed receipt and photographic evidence.