Ronna Nirmala – A former director general at the Social Affairs Ministry was sentenced to 17 months in prison on Thursday for his role in the flawed procurement of sewing machines and imported cows distributed to disaster relief victims.

Amrun Daulay, a Democratic Party lawmaker who oversaw social security assistance at the ministry, was found guilty of causing Rp 15.14 billion ($1.77 million) in state losses in 2004 and 2006 by foregoing normal bidding procedures and instead offering contracts directly to two firms – Lasindo and Atmadhira Karya.

"The defendant, following instructions from [former Minister] Bachtiar Chamsyah in the procurement of sewing machines and imported cows, used the method of direct appointment [without tender], which is unprofessional and caused unhealthy competition in the ministry," Judge Ugo said at the Anti-Corruption Court in Jakarta on Thursday.

The 17-month sentence handed to Amrun was lighter than the prosecutors' demand of two and a half years.

He said after the trial that he was considering whether to appeal the verdict. "I consider it as the decision from God," Amrun said. "It is relevant [to see] whether it is fair or not, but I sincerely [accept it]."

Former Minister Bachtiar was sentenced to 20 months in prison last year for his role in the case.