The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) has raised concerns over the alleged use of a private jet to travel overseas by Kaesang Pangarep and Erina Gudono, the son and daughter-in-law of President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo (Jokowi), suggesting it is considered a form of gratification.
Boyamin Saiman, Coordinator of MAKI, emphasized that any benefit received by the President’s family could be seen as a form of gratification.
“It is potentially considered a gratification because it was received by the President’s child. A businessman would not provide such a facility to someone like me, who has no influence,” Boyamin said in a telephone interview as quoted by Media Indonesia on Tuesday, August 27, 2024.
He said further that gratification is not limited to direct gifts to public officials, but can also extend to their family members or close associates.
“State officials and their families are included because they are part of the state’s power structure and cannot be separated. Thus, gratification encompasses everything received by their families or close relations, such as children and spouses,” Boyamin said.
He also noted that if the President’s child or any other official’s family receives a gift, it could be perceived as a way to influence the official’s decisions.
“This rule is universal; in any country, benefits received in connection to power are prohibited,” he said.
Boyamin urged Kaesang to report the matter to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) within 30 days to determine whether the gift is permissible.
“If the use of the private jet is deemed inappropriate, Kaesang should reimburse the equivalent rental cost to the state via the KPK,” he said.
“I believe a leader should set a good example and not misuse power. Therefore, it should be submitted to the KPK to assess whether it is acceptable or not. President Jokowi should instruct Kaesang to report to the KPK within a maximum of 30 days,” he concluded.
