Starting Trial, Tom Lembong Was Reprimanded By The Judge About How To Sit

Thomas Trikasih Lembong or Tom Lembong (right) as suspects, at the Jakarta Corruption Court (Tipikor), Thursday (6/3/2025). (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - The panel of judges reprimanded the former Indonesian Minister of Trade, Thomas Trikasih Lembong alias Tom Lembong because of the sitting attitude that did not show a perfect attitude.

The reprimand was conveyed before the Public Prosecutor (JPU) began reading the indictment file of the alleged corruption case of sugar imports at the Ministry of Trade for the 2015'2016 period.

"Soon, I apologize, the defendant is in a good sitting position, there is no need to cross his leg," said Chief Justice Dennie Arsan Fatrika in the Jakarta Corruption Court courtroom, Thursday, March 6.

Receiving the warning, Tom Lembong immediately apologized. Then improve the seating method by not crossing your legs.

"Sorry sir," replied Tom Lembong.

Meanwhile, based on the Case Investigation Information System (SIPP) of the Central Jakarta District Court, the Tom Lembong case registered with number 34/Pid.Sus TPK/2025/PN.Jkt.Pst will begin trial today.

At today's trial, Anies Baswedan was also present in person at the trial. The reason is because he wants to witness the judicial process starting. "So our goal is to attend today, I want to directly attend, witness this process begin," said Anies.

His presence is also a form of support for Tom Lembong who is his best friend. They are known to have close friendship.

When Anies became a presidential candidate in 2024, Tom Lembong was part of the team to win the presidential election contestation

"I came as a friend of Mr. Tom Lembong, I was here to witness the judicial process," he said.

In addition, Anies also conveyed that his presence was to convey his hopes to the panel of judges who tried the Tom Lembong case in order to decide objectively and fairly.

"I have come to express my hope that the panel of judges will act carefully objectively and prioritize the truth, legal certainty, justice in deciding this case," said Anies.