KPK Asks Public Officials To Reject Parcels And Other Gratuities

JAKARTA - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) reminded state officials and civil servants to refuse any gifts related to the Eid al-Fitr celebration. This is because this kind of acceptance is a form of gratification.

"Again, the KPK reminds state officials and civil servants to refuse gratuities related to their positions and contrary to their obligations or duties, especially in relation to the celebration of Eid Al-Fitr 2021," said Acting KPK spokesman for Prevention Ipi Maryati in a written statement on Sunday, May 2.

Apart from refusing, the anti-graft commission reminded officials not to ask for gifts ahead of the holidays. This aims to prevent gratification.

"The KPK asks state officials and civil servants to provide good role models for society," he said.

He then explained that giving gifts is prohibited for officials because it has the potential to create a conflict of interest. The KPK emphasized that it was not afraid to impose criminal penalties if officials dared to accept gifts even though it was Eid.

Furthermore, the anti-graft commission has issued Circular Letter Number 13 of 2021 concerning the rejection of gratuities ahead of the holidays. The letter has been distributed to officials since April 28, 2021.

"Requests for funds and / or gifts as holiday allowances (THR) or as other names by civil servants or state officials, both individually and on behalf of institutions, are prohibited actions and may have implications for corruption," said Ipi.

If in the future, civil servants or state officials are unable to refuse gratuities, then they are obliged to report to the KPK no later than 30 working days from the time of receipt.

"Information regarding the reporting mechanism and form for receiving gratuities can be accessed through the link https://gratifikasi.kpk.go.id or contacting the KPK public information service at telephone number 198," he concluded.