President said if government officials had a good understanding of the country`s legal procedures, they would be able to carry out their duties effectively.
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has urged government officials to have a thorough understanding of the country`s anti-corruption law, so they will be able to take the right decision with regard to government activities.

The president made the statement when giving a speech during the National Government Meeting 2013 here on Monday.

He said if government officials had a good understanding of the country`s legal procedures, they would be able to carry out their duties effectively.

"Uncertainty will hinder the progress of the nation," said the president.

The National Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is running anti-corruption campaigns to gain the support of a number of agencies in the country.

"By implementing corruption preventive measures, corruption can be eradicated. This will ultimately reduce losses to the state," said KPK Chief Abraham Samad.

"I want to remind everyone that corruption has become deep-rooted in the nation, and it is damaging the nation`s economy, legal framework, and social structure," Abraham stated.

"Corruption prevention efforts are extremely important and all stakeholders and institutions should work closely to reduce corruption," he said.

The anti-graft agency has developed the National Integration System (NIS), which is expected to help eradicate corruption in Indonesia.

The system has been incorporated in the KPK Working Plan 2011-2023 and will be implemented across the country with the help of several stakeholders.

"This system is aimed at eradicating corruption in ministries and government agencies," Abraham explained.

Between 2004 and 2012, KPK had handled 332 corruption cases involving legislators, law enforcers, ambassadors, and officials at regional and national levels.

The anti-graft agency has received a total of 55,964 tip-offs, mostly from Indonesians, including Indonesians residing overseas.

"As a result, the upstream oil and gas sector managed to save Rp152 trillion between 2009 and 2012. In addition, Rp2 trillion was saved because of rights transfer of state assets," Abraham pointed out.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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