Yustinus Paat, Jakarta – Former Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Arifin Tasrif was questioned by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) on Wednesday in connection with mining management and licensing practices in eastern Indonesia. However, Arifin dismissed suggestions that he is implicated in a corruption case.
Speaking to reporters after the session at KPK headquarters in Jakarta, Arifin clarified that the questioning focused on mining governance and licensing policy, particularly in eastern regions such as Papua and Maluku, rather than any specific corruption allegation.
"I gave explanations about mining sector management that could serve as a foundation for future improvements," Arifin said. "They asked fairly basic questions, but it seemed they had been conducting long-term observations on past coordination in mining oversight."
He noted that KPK investigators appeared particularly interested in mining licenses issued around 2004.
"There is no case at the moment, though an investigation is ongoing," Arifin said, adding that he was not authorized to disclose details and advised reporters to seek official confirmation from the KPK.
Arifin served as energy minister from 2019 to 2024 under President Joko Widodo.
KPK deputy chairman for law enforcement, Asep Guntur Rahayu, separately confirmed that Arifin had been questioned regarding mining governance in the eastern provinces but declined to confirm whether an official corruption case had been opened.
"Do we have a case? I can't say anything at this point due to the preliminary nature of the investigation. We can only confirm what Mr. Arifin has already told you," Asep said.
The questioning follows recent actions by the current Energy Minister, Bahlil Lahadalia, who revoked mining permits for four companies operating in Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua, citing environmental violations.
The four companies had been operating within the National Geopark area near the iconic Piaynemo Islands, having obtained licenses from local governments between 2004 and 2006. Under current laws, only the central government has the authority to issue such permits.
Bahlil said the companies had acted irresponsibly in ecologically sensitive areas, justifying the revocations on both legal and environmental grounds.
Raja Ampat, an archipelago consisting of four major islands – Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati, and Misool – and more than 1,800 smaller islets, is globally celebrated for its rich marine biodiversity and pristine natural beauty.