Finance minister 'wouldn't dream' of taking a cut

In light of widespread speculation over alleged bribery in a Manpower and Transmigration Ministry infrastructure project, Finance Minister Agus Martowardojo says he never received a "fee" to clinch the deal.

"There is a public official and a business person who were disobedient. It's simple. Don't complicate it," Agus told participants at the Investor Summit and Capital Market Expo 2011 at the Ritz Carlton Hotel Pacific Place in Jakarta on Wednesday.

"A lot of my working partners, businesses and the media, have said the finance minister received a 'fee'. I'm telling you, I wouldn't even dream of it!"

Agus was summoned by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) for questioning on Tuesday in relation to a Rp 1.5 billion bribery case involving a state budget allocation for a Manpower and Transmigration Ministry project in Papua.

"I was summoned by the KPK. I didn't feel belittled. I am glad to have helped the KPK in doing its job," he added.

During his speech on capital markets and Indonesia's economic fundamentals, Agus reiterated his support for the KPK.

"We have to support the KPK. If, recently, there has been suggestions that the KPK should be disbanded, please don't do that. We need to support [the KPK]. Investors, you are our national assets; don't just think of yourselves and your own interests. The [KPK's] aspirations need to be supported."