Prabowo Refuses to Review List of Companies Facing Penalties

Concerns Over Personal Connections

President Prabowo Subianto has declined to review a list of companies that have been identified as non-compliant with regulations and are facing potential penalties, including license revocation. The decision was made due to Prabowo's concerns about encountering names of acquaintances or business associates on the list. During a public event in Karawang on January 7, 2026, Prabowo revealed that he had been offered the list but chose not to examine it, citing the potential for personal bias.

Background on Non-Compliant Companies

The companies in question have primarily been identified through operations conducted by the Task Force on Forest Area Order (Satgas PKH), a government body tasked with enforcing compliance within forest areas. Violations range from environmental degradation to illegal logging and other forestry-related offenses. The government's efforts to crack down on these violations have been ongoing, with license revocation being one of the most severe penalties imposed on non-compliant entities.

Implications of Prabowo's Decision

Prabowo's reluctance to engage with the list highlights the complexities of governance when personal relationships intersect with official duties. By avoiding exposure to the list, Prabowo aims to maintain impartiality and avoid potential conflicts of interest. This decision underscores the challenges faced by leaders in balancing personal relationships with the demands of their official roles.