KPK: Kuansing Corruption Case Tarnishes Region's Traditional Values

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has condemned a recent corruption case in Kuansing, Riau, stating it damages the region's esteemed cultural values, particularly those associated with the traditional Pacu Jalur boat race.

The KPK recently revealed a bribery case involving the release of Limited Production Forest (HPT) areas in Kuansing. Three individuals were arrested in a sting operation on June 29, 2026: Kuansing Regent Suhardiman Amby, Regional Secretary Zulkarnain, and a private sector figure, Ardiles, director of PT Mitra Ideal Consultant. The commission highlighted that corruption in Kuansing not only undermines state officials' integrity but also erodes public trust in the region's cherished values.

KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo noted that this operation serves as a warning, especially as Kuansing's integrity score in KPK's Monitoring, Controlling, Surveillance for Prevention (MCSP) program fell to 63.84 in 2025, a decrease of 8.13 points from the previous year. The score for Procurement of Goods and Services (PBJ) was particularly low, below 50 points. Similarly, the Integrity Assessment Survey (SPI) for Kuansing showed only a marginal improvement, rising from 63.12 in 2024 to 63.58 in 2025.

Prasetyo emphasized the need for consistent reinforcement of integrity and corruption prevention systems. The alleged corruption is linked to strategic regional projects impacting many lives. Geographically, 50 percent of Kuansing is plantation land, primarily palm oil, with significant revenue potential. However, infrastructure challenges persist, with 38 to 45 percent of roads in poor condition, partly due to heavy logistics trucks carrying palm oil and coal. This marks the second sting operation involving a regional head in Kuansing, with seven corruption cases recorded in Riau province.