Accused Of Being Involved In PCR Testing Business, Luhut: Use Data, Don't Use Rumors, Just Audit It

JAKARTA - Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan does not care about accusations of making the procurement of PCR test kits a business field together with SOE Minister Erick Tohir. According to Luhut, the allegation can be proven through an audit process.

"Yes, it's okay, there's no problem. just get an audit later. I already told you," Luhut told reporters at the Metro Jaya Police, Monday, November 15.

Luhut also said that those who would report the alleged PCR tees business to the police must use valid data. If only based on rumors and not equipped with data, it is considered just a way to seek popularity.

"We also have to learn to talk about it with data, don't use feelings or rumors. It's tacky when you talk about the words, right, you're tired just looking for popularity, what for?" said Luhut.

Previously, former Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI) Director Agustinus Edy Kristianto said a number of government ministers of President Joko Widodo were involved in the PCR test business. He said the ministers were affiliated with GSI, a provider of COVID-19 testing services.

According to him, the company was founded by a number of large companies. He linked Erick to the Adaro Bangun Negeri Foundation which is related to PT Adaro Energy Tbk (ADRO). The company is headed by Erick's brother, Boy Thohir.

In addition, Edy also mentioned the name of the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Panjaitan. According to him, Luhut was involved through PT Toba Bumi Energi and PT Toba Sejahtra, a subsidiary of PT TBS Energi Utama Tbk (TOBA).

This allegation was later reported to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) by the People's Fair and Prosperous Party (PRIMA).

It's just that the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is still conducting a study to find out whether the alleged profit-making from the PCR business is in accordance with their duties and functions in accordance with Article 11 of Law Number 19 of 2019. If appropriate, the KPK will then follow up by clarifying and collecting other evidence.