Headline: Bank Indonesia‘s CSR Funds Not Allocated to MPs, Says DPR Chair
Subhead: Misbakhun, who heads DPR’s XI Commission, denies CSR funds from BI are used by MPs, contradicting earlier claims by Satori, another commission member.
Body:
In a strongly-worded statement, Misbakhun, the chair of the House of Representatives’ (DPR) XI Commission, has categorically denied that corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds from Bank Indonesia (BI) are allocated to members of the House. This clarification comes after fellow commission member, Satori, claimed that CSR funds from BI were being used by all members of the XI Commission.
"I want to make it clear that there is no flow of funds from Bank Indonesia’s Social Program (PSBI) to the DPR members or any surplus cash taken," Misbakhun said in an official statement on Sunday, December 29.
Sources close to the matter suggest that the funds, meant for social programs across Indonesia, are allocated through proposals submitted by various community groups, organizations, or foundations directly to BI. The process involves a thorough verification and validation by an independent survey team appointed by BI.
Misbakhun, in his statement, emphasized that the PSBI has been in existence for decades and is included in BI’s annual budget. He described it as an initiative to foster a sense of care and empower communities across Indonesia.
However, the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has launched a series of investigatory measures, including searches of properties belonging to high-ranking officials and MPs. On Monday, December 16, KPK searched the offices of BI’s governor, Perry Warjiyo, and two offices in the communication department. A day later, on Friday, December 27, KPK questioned Satori and another MP, Heri Gunawan from Gerindra Party, related to the case.
The controversy surrounds the PSBI, which has been flagged as a potential channel for corruption involving members of the DPR’s XI Commission. Misbakhun’s clarification, however, insists that the funds do not flow through MPs or any DPR members.
This developing story underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the use of public funds, particularly those earmarked for social causes. As investigations continue, stakeholders eagerly await further updates on the unfolding situation.
[Sources: CNN Indonesia]
