The Inspectorate General of the Public Works Ministry has uncovered evidence of alleged gratuity involving a senior official at the ministry’s Secretariat General. 

In response to the findings, Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo, confirmed that the internal investigation was ongoing and would be pursued rigorously if criminal elements were suspected.

“If the Inspectorate finds criminal indications, they will forward the case, be it to the KPK [Corruption Eradication Commission], the Attorney General’s Office, or the National Police,” Dody spoke to the media on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, while stressing the principle of presumption of innocence.

“This is still under review. But if the case becomes public and draws attention, a follow-up summons could be expected,” he said.

While the ministry recently made personnel changes at the echelon-2 level, the official declined to explicitly link these to the investigation, citing due process and ongoing reviews.

“I have instructed the Inspectorate to follow up. Once we have a full picture, we will report transparently to the media,” Dody cited.

The report, signed by Inspector General Dadang Rukmana, detailed that a total of Rp100.6 million in cash, comprising Rp10 million and US$5,900 (approximately Rp96.6 million), had been given by a ministry bureau chief, identified only as “D”, to the Secretary General in connection with the wedding of the latter’s daughter.

The cash, allegedly intended to support the event, was gathered by contacting several heads of regional offices within the ministry, the report states.

“The cash has now been confiscated by the Inspectorate General and will be returned to the donor, as it was determined to be a personal contribution intended to support the wedding event,” the report said.

While the investigation did not confirm a formal solicitation, the Inspectorate General has instructed D to cease any further collection of goods or funds related to the occasion. It also noted the potential for disciplinary sanctions based on violations of ethical conduct.

Attempts to reach the Secretary General for comment, including via telephone and WhatsApp, have gone unanswered as of the time of reporting.

The development comes amid heightened scrutiny over ethics and integrity within public service, with observers calling for transparency and firm action in addressing any proven misconduct.