"We are aware that promotions tend to give way to illicit practices. Hence, I have fully enforced meritocracy, making sure that employees hold positions that align with their backgrounds and experiences," Bali Governor Wayan Koster said in a statement on Wednesday.
During a coordination meeting with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in Denpasar on Tuesday, he said the merit-based system reflects his administration's commitment to good governance and reliable public services.
Koster said the provincial government will continue to consider competency, performance, and professionalism when promoting officials to echelon I, III, or IV positions to ensure fairness in structural posts.
"Equally important is ensuring accountability in the procurement of goods and services. Since my first term in office, I have instructed my aides to ensure that all procurement is conducted within the legitimate framework. I will further tighten oversight," he said.
He noted that these measures enabled the provincial government to record zero corruption cases during his 2020–2024 tenure.
He added that the achievement was also supported by the KPK through its Monitoring, Controlling, and Surveillance for Prevention (MCSP) initiative, which guides regional governments in strengthening preventive mechanisms.
KPK representative Nurul Ichsan Al Huda urged the Bali government to maintain the progress and said the 2025 MCSP will monitor regional assets and optimize local taxes.
"We at the KPK truly hope that Bali is free from legal issues, particularly corruption. This province should become a model for all regions across Indonesia," he said.
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Translator: Ni Putu, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso
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