Indonesia's push for foreign investment and skilled labor took a hit with a corruption scandal involving immigration officials. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) nabbed eight senior immigration officials, including former Deputy Minister Silmy Karim,accused of extorting foreigners seeking residency and work permits.
KPK's investigation found a widespread scheme running from 2022 to 2026 . Officials reportedly forced applicants to pay extra fees,totaling 145.5 billion rupiah (around US$8 million). Foreigners paid up to 1.5 million rupiah to speed up residency applications,under threat of delays or rejection .
KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto revealed Karim got a weekly 100 million rupiah payout. The money allegedly funded personal assets and businesses, like a towing company. Shows corruption's deep roots in Indonesia's immigration system .
Analysts call public-sector corruption in Indonesia an "open secret," urging government to boost transparency in visa processes. Scandal could shake investor confidence in Southeast Asia's biggest economy. Jakarta's plans for foreign funds and talent now face tougher questions…
