Profile of Karen Agustiawan: Former CEO of Pertamina and Her Controversial Case

Kapanlagi.com - Karen Agustiawan is a familiar figure in the ears of the Indonesian public, especially in the business and energy sectors. Born in Bandung on October 19, 1958, she obtained her education at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) majoring in Physics Engineering. Karen served as the President Director of PT Pertamina (Persero) from 2009 to 2014, and under her leadership, Pertamina underwent various transformations.

With impressive achievements, in 2011, Karen was named by Forbes as the first strongest businesswoman in Asia in the 'Asia's 50 Power Businesswomen' list. However, her brilliant career came to a halt due to a sensational legal case.

After retiring from Pertamina, she continued her studies as a 'Visiting Scholar' at Harvard Kennedy School of Government. However, on February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court (MA) increased her sentence to 13 years in prison and a fine of Rp650 million, with a subsidiary of six months in custody, related to the alleged corruption case of liquefied natural gas (LNG) procurement.

1. Chronology of the Karen Agustiawan Case

This case began with a sales agreement for LNG made in 2009 with the American company CCL. This agreement resulted in significant state losses, reaching Rp2.1 trillion due to the decline in global gas prices and excess domestic LNG supply. This became a public spotlight and created a negative impact on Pertamina's image.

2. Beginning of the Investigation and Determination of Suspect

The investigation into this case began when the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) named Karen Agustiawan as a suspect in September 2023. The KPK assessed that there was sufficient evidence to implicate her in this case. The Corruption Court then started processing her case, and in June 2024, Karen was sentenced to 9 years in prison.

3. Verdict and Legal Efforts

After the verdict, Karen Agustiawan filed an appeal. However, the Supreme Court rejected her appeal and increased her sentence to 13 years in prison. The Supreme Court found that Karen was proven to have violated Article 3 of the Corruption Law, as well as Articles 55 and 64 of the Criminal Code (KUHP).

4. Impact of the Case on Pertamina

This case not only affects Karen but also Pertamina as a state-owned enterprise. Pertamina's previously strong and influential image in the energy industry is now tarnished due to allegations of corruption involving its former leader. The public is questioning the transparency and accountability in the management of the company.

5. Public and Media Reaction

News about the Karen Agustiawan case immediately became the focus of the media and the public. Many expressed their disappointment, considering that Karen was a woman who had once been recognized as a great leader in Asia. This reaction shows how high the public's expectations are towards public figures.

6. An Inspiring Career Journey

Although now entangled in legal issues, Karen Agustiawan's career journey remains an inspiration for many. She demonstrates that women can hold important positions in the business world, although it should be noted that great responsibility comes with the same risks. Karen is a real example of a journey full of twists and turns.

(kpl/ums)