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East Kalimantan governor returns luxury official car amid public backlash

Rudy came under widespread criticism after it was revealed that he had purchased an official vehicle costing Rp 8.5 billion, sparking concerns over budget priorities in the province amid ongoing government austerity measures.

News Desk (The Jakarta Post)
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Wed, March 4, 2026 Published on Mar. 3, 2026 Published on 2026-03-03T17:08:40+07:00

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East Kalimantan governor Rudy Mas'ud. East Kalimantan governor Rudy Mas'ud. (Courtesy of/@h.rudymasud instagram)

E

ast Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas’ud has decided to return his newly purchased Rp 8.5 billion (US$503,000) official vehicle following widespread public criticism over what many considered excessive spending.

The decision was announced on his official Instagram account on Monday, after days of public scrutiny and debate over the procurement.

“I have decided to return the car after carefully listening to and considering the aspirations and constructive feedback of the people of East Kalimantan. A good government is one that listens and has the courage to make wise decisions,” Rudy said in a statement.

Rudy apologized for the controversy surrounding the procurement and expressed appreciation for the public feedback.

“Constructive criticism will, God willing, serve as our motivation to build a stronger and more successful East Kalimantan,” he said.

Rudy emphasized that returning the luxury vehicle would not disrupt government operations or compromise public services. He assured residents that government operations would continue to run effectively and that his administration would remain focused on formulating policies aimed at improving public welfare.

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Muhammad Faisal, head of the East Kalimantan Communication and Information Agency, said the vehicle had been purchased in November last year but had remained in Jakarta and was never used for official travel or government operations.

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