Yusril Ihza Mahendra calls for clarity on corruption and BUMN losses

Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Affairs, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, has emphasized the need for legal certainty regarding the distinction between business losses in State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) and criminal corruption.

Yusril argued that business investments inherently carry risks and that losses should not automatically trigger corruption investigations without clear evidence of wrongdoing. He noted that while profits in business are standard, losses often lead to legal prosecution, creating an imbalance. He called for a more precise definition of state finances within legislation, noting that 23 different laws currently provide varying definitions.

Additionally, Yusril urged caution regarding proposals to redefine corruption to align with the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC). He stated that any changes to the legal framework must be discussed carefully, considering both material and formal legal aspects, to ensure that the historical context and the intent of existing anti-corruption laws are respected.