Lampung school revitalization program faces corruption allegations

The Indonesian government is implementing a massive school revitalization program in Lampung, with 1,737 schools slated to receive funding totaling approximately Rp1.3 trillion for the 2026 budget year. Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu’ti stated that the projects, which include rehabilitating classrooms and libraries, are being managed through self-management and are expected to be completed by December 2026. In Metro City alone, 56 schools are receiving Rp34 billion in funding. This initiative is being paired with a digitalization effort that previously allocated Rp329 billion for interactive digital boards and laptops.

However, the program faces allegations of corruption in North Lampung (Lampung Utara). Reports suggest that certain individuals within the local Education and Culture Office are allegedly extorting school principals by claiming the funds are subject to a 10% fee. These actors are reportedly using the name of Regent Hamartoni Ahadis to intimidate principals into compliance. The alleged extortion involves demanding cash payments in two 5% installments, with instructions that payments must be made in person at the local education office and not via bank transfer.