KPK Asks Mahfud to Investigate “Mark Up” Allegations
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Mahfud MD Questioned by KPK Regarding Alleged ‘Mark Ups’ on Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail Project
Table of Contents
Published: October 20,2025
What Happened?
Former 2024 Vice Presidential Candidate mahfud MD has publicly stated that he was asked by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to report alleged ‘mark ups’ related to the Jakarta Bandung Fast train (KCJB),also known as Whoosh. Mahfud expressed surprise at this request, stating it is unusual for law enforcement to *request* a report when allegations of a crime are already public.
He shared this details via a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, October 19, 2025, as reported by Kompas.com.
Mahfud’s Legal Outlook
Mahfud, drawing on his legal expertise, explained that standard criminal procedure dictates that law enforcement officials (APH) should initiate an inquiry upon receiving information about a suspected crime, rather than soliciting a report. He clarified that authorities can also summon individuals with relevant information for questioning.
He used an analogy: “Reports are only needed if there is an incident that is not known to APH, so someone needs to report it, such as the discovery of a body. But if there is news of a murder then APH must immediately act to investigate, no need to wait for a report.”
Mahfud believes the KPK’s request was a procedural error.
Source of the Allegations
Mahfud emphasized that he was not the original source of the concerns regarding the Whoosh project. He stated that public policy observers Agus Pambagio and Antony Budhiawan first raised the issue during a televised dialogue. He added that he subsequently discussed the matter on his podcast.
Background: The Whoosh Project
The Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail (Whoosh) is a significant infrastructure project in Indonesia, aiming to connect Jakarta and Bandung with a high-speed railway. The project has faced scrutiny regarding its costs and potential financial implications for state-owned enterprises (BUMN).
Key Project Details:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Route | Jakarta - Bandung |
| Length | Approximately 142.3 km |
| Maximum Speed | 350 km/h |
| Operator | PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) |
What Does This Mean?
Mahfud’s public statement raises questions about the KPK’s handling of potential corruption allegations surrounding the Whoosh project. His critique of the KPK’s procedure suggests a concern that the investigation may not be pursued with sufficient urgency or independence. The fact that the KPK requested a report from Mahfud, rather than initiating an investigation based on publicly available information, is the core of the issue.
Who is Affected?
This situation possibly affects several parties:
- The Indonesian Public: Concerns about corruption in large infrastructure projects impact public trust and potentially lead to higher costs for taxpayers.
- PT KCIC: Allegations of ‘mark ups’ could damage the reputation of the company operating the Whoosh line.
- State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN): As highlighted in related reporting,the Whoosh project has already raised concerns about potential losses for BUMNs.
- The KPK: The agency’s credibility is on the line, as its procedures are being questioned.
Timeline of Events
- October 18, 2025: Reports surface regarding potential losses for BUMNs related to the Whoosh project.
- October 19, 2025: Agus Pambagio and Antony Budhiawan discuss concerns about the Whoosh project on television.