2019 Tugboat Case: Pelindo Affirms Anti-Corruption Commitment and Respects Legal Process

 

CNEWS, Jakarta, September 25, 2025 – PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero), or Pelindo, has expressed full respect for the legal measures taken by the North Sumatra High Prosecutor’s Office (Kejati Sumut), following the agency’s decision to name suspects in an alleged corruption case involving the procurement of two tugboats in 2019.

The case, which involved a contract between PT Pelindo I and PT Dok dan Perkapalan Surabaya (Persero), had already been under investigation by law enforcement long before the merger of four state-owned port operators into Pelindo in October 2021.

“We are concerned about these developments, but Pelindo will continue to coordinate with law enforcement authorities to ensure the process runs according to regulations. We fully support transparent and accountable law enforcement,” emphasized Jonedi R., Executive Director 1 of PT Pelindo Regional 1, in an official statement on Thursday (Sept 25).

Strong Anti-Corruption Commitment

Jonedi reaffirmed Pelindo’s commitment to upholding integrity within the company. He stressed that the case did not originate from policies after the merger but was instead linked to a legacy project under Pelindo I.

“Pelindo is strongly committed to enforcing anti-corruption principles and will take firm action against anyone within the company found guilty of misconduct. This commitment is reflected in our collaboration with various anti-corruption institutions and the strengthening of our Whistle Blowing System (WBS) to prevent corrupt practices across the Pelindo Group,” he stated.

Respect for Legal Process, Upholding Presumption of Innocence

Pelindo management voiced support for Kejati Sumut’s legal proceedings while underscoring the importance of the presumption of innocence principle.

“Pelindo will respect every decision made by law enforcement, while continuing to uphold the presumption of innocence until the legal process is complete,” Jonedi added.

Operations Remain Unaffected

Jonedi further assured that the legal proceedings will not disrupt the company’s port operations.

“All Pelindo operations are running normally. Our commitment is to ensure the smooth flow of port services and national logistics activities, unaffected by this legal matter,” he said.

Through this stance, Pelindo seeks to reaffirm its position as a corporation that not only respects the rule of law but also safeguards public trust and business partnerships amid scrutiny over the 2019 tugboat procurement case. (DN86, CN)