Tag:

AGO

Jakarta: Passport Revoked for Oil Corruption Suspect Riza Chalid

by Emma Walker – News Editor July 30, 2025

written by Emma Walker – News Editor

The Attorney General’s office (AGO) has named Riza Chalid, an oil entrepreneur, as a suspect in a corruption case involving alleged state losses totaling Rp285 trillion. The losses are broken down into Rp193.7 trillion in direct state financial losses and Rp91.3 trillion in economic losses for the country.

Chalid has been identified as the Beneficial Owner of PT Orbit Terminal Merak (OTM). His son,Muhammad Kerry andrianto Riza,is designated as the Beneficial Owner of PT Navigator Khatulistiwa. The AGO also mentioned Patra Niaga and Yoki Firnandi, President Director of PT Pertamina International Shipping, in connection with the case.

Investigators have summoned Riza Chalid twice as a suspect,but he has failed to appear for both examinations. The Young Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) plans to issue a third summons.

The Acting Director General of Immigration, Yuldi Yusman, stated that immigration records indicate Riza Chalid departed Indonesia for Malaysia on February 6, 2025, via soekarno-Hatta International Airport. He has not yet returned to the country.

July 30, 2025 0 comments

World

TEMU Faces EU Investigation Over Illegal Products

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor July 28, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

EU Continues Scrutiny of E-commerce Platform TEMU

Brussels is pressing forward with its investigation into the e-commerce platform TEMU, an inquiry initiated in October 2024.The probe encompasses allegations of “addictive design” within the TEMU request, citing features such as rapid promotions and integrated games, alongside concerns regarding the transparency of its purchasing recommendations. TEMU, which has seen significant growth across Europe due to its competitive pricing strategy, is the international iteration of the Chinese e-commerce giant Pinduoduo, established in 2015. The platform offers an extensive array of products, including apparel, toys, home decor, tools, and electronics.

In May 2024, European consumer advocacy groups lodged a formal complaint against TEMU, asserting that the platform encourages excessive spending by users. In response, the company stated in October that it had implemented “significant measures” and was “refining” its practices to align with the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA). Despite its relatively recent market entry in 2023, TEMU has garnered substantial popularity within the EU, boasting an average of 93.7 million monthly active users across the 27 member states.

In parallel efforts to safeguard consumers from possibly harmful content or products, the EU is conducting other DSA investigations targeting platforms such as the chinese online retailer Aliexpress, as well as social media networks including Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok. The European Union is also addressing the substantial volume of low-cost parcels entering its territory. A proposal currently under consideration aims to introduce a €2 tax per package. Last year, the EU received 4.6 billion such parcels, averaging over 145 per second, with 91% originating from China.

→ Full text of the original article.

July 28, 2025 0 comments

News

Authorities track Pertamina suspect Riza to Malaysia – Politics

by David Harrison – Chief Editor July 22, 2025

written by David Harrison – Chief Editor

Pertamina Suspect Riza Chalid Located in Malaysia

Immigration Ministry Confirms Fugitive’s Last Known Whereabouts

Indonesian authorities have confirmed that Muhammad Riza Chalid, a central figure in a major corruption probe involving state oil firm Pertamina, was last seen in Malaysia. The revelation comes as investigators intensify efforts to locate him.

Malaysia Confirmed as Last Destination

The Immigration and Corrections Ministry stated that **Riza Chalid** departed Indonesia on February 6 for Malaysia and has not since returned. Deputy Immigration Minister **Silmy Karim** confirmed on July 21 that, based on current information, **Riza Chalid** remains in Malaysia.

Coordinating with Malaysian authorities, including the Malaysian Immigration Department and the Royal Malaysia Police, is underway to track **Riza Chalid**. Previously, his office reported that he had entered Singapore in August 2024 using a visitor visa.

However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Singapore countered recent media speculation, stating **Riza Chalid** was not in the city-state and “had not entered Singapore for quite some time.”

Investigators Acknowledge Tracking Efforts

The Attorney General’s Office (AGO) spokesperson, **Anang Supriatna**, acknowledged that investigators were aware of the immigration authorities’ efforts to pinpoint **Riza Chalid**’s location in Malaysia.

This development follows reports that the AGO intended to summon **Riza Chalid** for questioning, despite his unknown whereabouts at the time.

The Pertamina corruption case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting concerns about accountability within state-owned enterprises. In 2023, Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) reported that the estimated state losses from corruption in state-owned enterprises could reach trillions of rupiah annually, emphasizing the scale of the problem.

The investigation into corruption at state-owned enterprises remains a priority for Indonesian authorities.

July 22, 2025 0 comments

Entertainment

TEMU’s Rise: Chinese Platform Surpasses Zara in France

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor July 20, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

French Fashion Market Sees Surge in Online and Second-Hand Sales, Driven by Younger Consumers

The French textile and home goods market is experiencing a significant shift towards online purchasing and the second-hand sector, with younger demographics leading the charge. Data from the frist half of the year reveals that online sales now account for 30.3% of the market, a slight increase from the previous quarter’s 29.4%. This digital trend is mirrored in the second-hand market, which has captured 11.8% of overall consumption, up from 10.9% in the first quarter. Notably, 44% of these second-hand clothing transactions are conducted online.

The rise of ultra-fast fashion platforms is also reshaping the landscape.A trio of major online retailers – Amazon, Shein, and Temu – now collectively accounts for 23% of the value of online purchases made by French customers. This represents a substantial 7% of the total clothing consumption in France.

Consumers aged 18-34 are at the forefront of these changes. This age group shows a stronger inclination towards second-hand fashion, with 17.5% of their clothing expenses going towards pre-owned items, a 5.8 percentage point increase compared to the general population. Their digital purchasing habits are also more pronounced,with 34.2% of their spending online,a 3.9 percentage point rise. Though, this demographic appears less swayed by sales and promotions, with onyl 31.6% of their purchases being discounted, a 2.4 percentage point decrease. This trend is attributed to the growing appeal of the second-hand market.

In contrast, consumers over 55 years old show a much lower engagement with second-hand fashion, representing only 3.7% of their clothing expenditures.

Regarding popular items, t-shirts, dresses, and jeans were the most frequently purchased items in the women’s department during the first semester. For men, t-shirts, jeans, and shirts led the sales figures.

Analysis of pricing trends indicates that the average prices for t-shirts and jeans are lower than the modal price, suggesting a strong presence of budget-friendly options. Conversely, shirts and dresses tend to have higher average prices, driven by more expensive items.

the IFM’s findings highlight a clear generational divide in consumer behavior, a growing influence of the second-hand market, particularly through digital channels, and the firm establishment of new ultra-fast fashion players within the French market.

Methodology: The survey was conducted online with a sample of 1,250 individuals, representative of the French population, with monthly renewals.

July 20, 2025 0 comments

News

AGO said there was a role in Nadiem Makarim in the Chromebook procurement case

by David Harrison – Chief Editor July 15, 2025

written by David Harrison – Chief Editor

Education Ministry Probe Targets Chromebook Procurement

Former Minister Nadiem Makarim Implicated in Laptop Deal Investigation

JAKARTA – Indonesia’s Attorney General’s Office (AGO) has revealed the central role of former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, **Nadiem Anwar Makarim (NAM)**, in the procurement of Chromebook laptops. The investigation into alleged state losses exceeding 1.98 trillion Rupiah is intensifying.

Accusations of Direct Orders

Director of Investigation for the AGO’s Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, **Abdul Qohar**, stated that **Nadiem Makarim** issued directives to his subordinates concerning the Chromebook acquisition. The plan for these laptops reportedly began before **Nadiem Makarim** officially took office as minister.

According to **Abdul Qohar**, **Nadiem Makarim**’s staffer, **Juris Tan (JS)**, initiated discussions about an educational digitalization program, including the Chromebook procurement, with **Nadiem Makarim** as early as August 2019. This planning group included **Fiona**, another of **Nadiem**’s staff. **Juris Tan** later proceeded to discuss the technical specifications of using Chrome OS for ICT procurement with a Center for Education and Policy Studies (PSPK) team in December 2019.

Meetings with Google Highlighted

The investigation further detailed **Nadiem Makarim**’s direct engagement with Google representatives in February and April 2020. These meetings were to discuss the procurement of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) using Chromebooks. Following these discussions, **Nadiem** reportedly instructed **Juris Tan** to follow up, including exploring potential “Co-Investment” from Google for the ministry.

“In February and April 2020, NAM met with Google, William and Putra Alam discussed the procurement of ICTs at the Ministry of Education and Culture. Furthermore, JS followed up on NAM’s orders to meet with Google. Then discuss the technical procurement of ICTs at the Ministry of Education and Culture using Chrome OS, of which were also discussed by the Co-Investment as much as 30% of Google for the Ministry of Education and Culture.”

—Abdul Qohar, Director of Investigation, AGO

Subordinates Ordered to Proceed

The AGO claims that **Nadiem Makarim**, during an online meeting on May 6, 2020, explicitly ordered subordinates to proceed with the ICT procurement using Chromebooks for the period of 2020-2022. Attendees at this critical meeting reportedly included individual consultant **Ibrahim Arief (Ibam)**, **Nadiem**’s staffer **Juris Tan (JS)**, Director of Elementary School **Sri Wahyuningsih (SW)**, and SMP Director **Mulyatsyah (Mul)**.

The investigation also revealed that **Ibrahim Arief** initially refused to sign off on technical studies that did not include Chromebooks. This led to a second technical study, commissioned under **Nadiem Makarim**’s alleged directive, which specifically incorporated Chrome OS into the procurement plans.

Four Suspects Named, State Loss Estimated

The AGO has officially named four suspects in connection with the procurement scandal. These individuals are: **Sri Wahyuningsih (SW)**, **Mulyatsyah (Mul)**, **Ibrahim Arief (Ibam)**, and **Juris Tan (JS)**. The alleged financial misconduct has resulted in an estimated state loss of Rp 1.98 trillion.

As of early 2024, Indonesia’s digital literacy rate stood at approximately 45%, highlighting the critical importance of transparent and efficient technology procurement in educational institutions (We Are Social, 2024). This case raises serious questions about the integrity of such initiatives.

**Nadiem Makarim** himself has been questioned by the AGO on two occasions as a witness in the ongoing investigation.

July 15, 2025 0 comments

News

Content Writing Tips: Improve Your Skills & Productivity

by Emma Walker – News Editor July 12, 2025

written by Emma Walker – News Editor

Jakarta –

Merchant Mohammad Riza Chalid Currently in Singapore. Riza Chalid turned out to have been absent three times the summons of the Attorney General for Special Criminal Attorney General (Jampidsus).

Riza Chalid’s absence was carried out in a row. Riza Chalid was also named a suspect in the alleged corruption case of crude oil and refinery products at PT Pertamina, in this case Riza as the benefit of the owner of PT Tanki Merak and PT Orbit Terminal Merak.

“Specifically the MRC, for three times in a row he was called properly, not present,” said Director of Investigation of Jampidsus AGO, Abdul Qohar, in a press conference on Thursday, July 12, 2025.

SCROLL TO CONTINUE WITH CONTENT

Qohar explained that Riza is currently in Singapore. The Indonesian Attorney General’s Office has coordinated with the Singapore Prosecutor’s Office regarding the existence of Riza.

“Based on information, the person concerned does not live in the country,” he said.

AGO coordinating with Singapore

Table of Contents

AGO coordinating with Singapore
Riza Chalid was prevented
Riza Chalid is called next week
18 suspects

Regarding the existence of Riza in Singapore, the Attorney General’s Office immediately coordinated with Singapore’s authority. Investigators have also taken steps to pick up Riza Chalid.

“We have collaborated with representatives of the Indonesian Prosecutor’s Office abroad, especially in Singapore. We have taken steps, because the information is there,” explained Qohar.

“So we take these steps for how we can find and can bring in concerned,” he added.

Riza Chalid was prevented

In addition to making efforts to coordinate with Singapore’s authority, AGO has also prevented Riza Chalid from traveling abroad. He was prevented after being named a suspect.

Riza was prevented since Thursday, July 10, 2025. Prevention abroad is valid for the next 6 months.

“Based on information from the investigator that the person concerned has also been prevented abroad,” said Kapuspenkum AGO Harli Siregar, Friday (11/7/2025).

Harli explained this prevention as one of the legal efforts taken by the AGO to hunt Riza. Although, Riza is thought to have been abroad.

“So right, prevent the person concerned from traveling abroad. But his position turns out to be abroad. Well, the question now, is it useful? Still useful, because the status has become a high risk, high risk person,” explained Harli.

According to Harli regarding Riza, abroad or not is not a problem. With the prevention made, he said, has informed that Riza Chalid is a high risk person.

“So then the track (monitored), finally our immigration has (recorded Riza) to be a person who ‘something’. Secondly, in the management of a passport and a residence permit. If he has been banned, it is influential,” he explained.

Although prevented, Riza Chalid’s status is still a suspect. He has not been included in the People’s Search List (DPO).

Also check out the video: Attorney General Set 9 Suspects of Corruption Corruption

Riza Chalid is called next week

At present, the AGO has also issued a summons addressed to the oil entrepreneur. The plan, Riza Chalid is called next week.

“So of course investigators are still preparing the action plans, the investigation plans. Maybe in the future there will be schedules,” Harli said.

On this occasion, Harli also talked about the determination of the status of DPO. Harli gave a parable if there were suspects who did not come to meet the call several times.

“When for example the person concerned has been called as a suspect, several times according to procedural law, but do not heed, the investigator will take the legal steps,” said Harli.

“But we do not know yet. If for example the investigator in the future did a summons of the person concerned, then was present.

18 suspects

After the determination of Riza Chalid et al two days ago, the number of suspects in this corruption case increased. In total there are currently 18 suspects in this crude oil corruption case.

The following is a list of 18 suspects of crude oil corruption cases:

1. Riva Siahaan (RS), President Director of PT Pertamina Patra Niaga
2. Sani Dinar Saifuddin (SDS), Director of Feedstock and Product Optimization of PT Kilang Pertamina International
3. Yoki Firnandi (YF), President Director of PT Pertamina International Shipping
4. Agus Purwono (AP), VP Feedstock Management of PT Kilang Pertamina International
5. Maya Kusmaya (MK), Central Marketing Director and Niaga PT Pertamina Patra Niaga
6. Edward Corne (EC), VP Trading Operations of PT Pertamina Patra Niaga
7. Muhammad Kerry Andrianto Riza (MKAR), Beneficial Owner of PT Navigator Khatulistiwa
8. Dimas Wearrpati (DW), Commissioner of PT Navigator Khatulistiwa as well as Commissioner of PT Jenggala Maritim
9. Gading Ramadhan Joedo (GRJ), Commissioner of PT Jenggala Maritim and President Director of PT Orbit Terminal Merak
10. Alfian Nasution (AN), VP Supply and Distribution of PT Pertamina (Persero) in 2011-2015.
11. Hanung Budya Yuktyanta (HB), Director of Marketing and Commerce of PT Pertamina (Persero) in 2014.
12. Toto Nugroho (TN), VP Intermediate Supply PT Pertamina (Persero) in 2017-2018.
13. Dwi Sudarsono (DS), VP Product Trading Isc Pertamina in 2019-2020
14. Arief Sukmara (US), Director of Gas, Petrochemical & New Business PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS)
15. Hasto Wibowo (HW), SVP Integrated Supply Chain (ISC) Pertamina in 2018-2020.
16. Martin Haendra Nata (MH), Business Development Manager of PT Trafigura in 2019-2021.
17. Indra Putra Harsono (IP), Business Development Manager of PT Mahameru Kencana Abadi.
18. Mohammad Riza Chalid (MRC), Beneficial Owners of PT Tanki Merak and PT Orbit Terminal Merak.

The amount of state loss also increased to Rp 285 trillion. The loss increased from the number previously announced by the Attorney General’s Office of Rp. 193.7 trillion.

“Based on the results of the calculation that has been confirmed, the total is Rp. 285,017,731,964,389,” Qohar said.

Also check out the video: Attorney General Set 9 Suspects of Corruption Corruption

Page 2 of 2

(Zap/IMK)

Hoegeng Awards 2025

Read the inspirational story of the exemplary police candidate here

July 12, 2025 0 comments

Newer Posts

Older Posts