BATAMCLICK.COM: Justice took another firm step forward in Batam this week. The local Prosecutor’s Office (Kejari Batam) officially named PTP, a Singaporean national and manager of the Merlion Square housing project, as a suspect in a corruption case involving public facility land misuse.
This wasn’t just any land—it was nearly 5,000 square meters earmarked for education. But instead of building a school, PTP sold the land to a South Korean national, identified as KKJ, the head of the Suluh Mulia Pionir Foundation, for a staggering Rp4.89 billion (approximately USD 300,000).
“As a result of the suspect’s actions, the Batam city government lost its access to vital educational land. The state incurred a financial loss of Rp4.896 billion,” said Batam’s Chief Prosecutor I Ketut Kasna Dedi during a press conference on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.
Kasna, flanked by Intel Section Head Priandi Firdaus and Special Crimes Section Head Tohom Hasiholan, explained that PTP—acting on behalf of PT Sentek Indonesia—was legally obligated to transfer all public facilities and infrastructure to the Batam government, as stipulated by Batam Indonesia Free Zone Authority (BP Batam) regulations.
But instead of upholding this commitment, the school-designated land was turned into a private commodity. And with it, a promise to the community was broken.
The prosecution team claims to have sufficient evidence, including witness and expert testimonies, official documents, and supporting indications that point to criminal misconduct and significant financial loss. PTP is now in detention for 20 days during the ongoing investigation.
“We are still exploring the possibility of other parties being involved,” said Kasna.
This case serves as a sobering reminder: real estate development is not just about building structures—it’s about honoring public trust. Selling land meant for schools doesn’t just betray the government. It steals from the future of children who deserve a place to learn, grow, and dream.(Elin)
