Profile of South Kalimantan Governor Sahbirin Noor Who is Currently in the Spotlight

Kapanlagi.com - Sahbirin Noor, affectionately known as Uncle Birin, is a familiar figure to the people of South Kalimantan. Since taking office as the Governor of South Kalimantan in 2016, Uncle Birin has embarked on a long and colorful career journey in the world of politics and bureaucracy in Indonesia. However, now, a new chapter in his leadership begins after being named a suspect by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in a corruption case.

As a regional leader, Uncle Birin is known for various ambitious development initiatives and programs for South Kalimantan. Nevertheless, his leadership journey has not been without controversy, especially related to bribery allegations involving several key officials in the region.

With sharp scrutiny from the public and media, the profile and career journey of Sahbirin Noor have become hot topics of discussion. Let us delve deeper into his career journey, the case surrounding him, and various other interesting aspects about the figure known as "Uncle Birin." Check out the review published by Kapanlagi.com on Friday (1/11).

1. Supported by the Banjar Community Even Though Not Originally from Banjar

Sahbirin Noor, a son of Banjarmasin born on November 12, 1967, has traversed a colorful life journey from the MI TPI Budi Mulia school to completing higher education at the Islamic University of Kalimantan Muhammad Arsyad Al-Banjary.

His brilliant career in the bureaucracy and politics has led him to achieve a strategic position in the South Kalimantan government, where he is committed to improving education and infrastructure, even though he is not from the Banjar ethnicity.

Not only that, Sahbirin also deepened his knowledge at Putra Bangsa University and Lambung Mangkurat University, which further strengthened his ability to face various challenges in his region and gain broad support from the community.

2. Political Journey and Position as Governor

Sahbirin began to attract public attention when he was elected Governor of South Kalimantan in 2016, bringing various innovative policies that successfully garnered support from various groups, including academics. One of his ambitious projects, the Integrated Sports Area development, further solidified his name in the local political arena.

However, behind his success, controversies arose regarding budget transparency that caused many to raise their eyebrows. Despite this, in 2020, he was re-elected for a second term as governor, a clear testament to his popularity in the eyes of the public, especially due to his flagship program known as "banjir, banyu lalu haja."

3. KPK's OTT Case and Allegations of Bribery in Government Projects

Sahbirin Noor is now ensnared in a bribery case that has shaken the South Kalimantan Public Works and Spatial Planning Office (PUPR). This scandal came to light after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a sting operation (OTT) in October 2024, indicating the existence of bribery practices in several development projects in the region. The KPK revealed that Sahbirin allegedly received a fee of 5% from the construction project of a football field and swimming pool in the Integrated Sports Area.

Behind the scenes, two entrepreneurs, YUD and AND, are suspected of giving money to South Kalimantan officials to ensure that the project fell into their hands. Not only Sahbirin, but several other officials, including the Head of the South Kalimantan PUPR, Ahmad Solhan, have also been named suspects, with the KPK emphasizing that "several work packages are suspected to have been plotted to be won by certain entrepreneurs," indicating manipulation in the procurement process that tarnishes public integrity.

4. Response from the KPK and Further Investigation Steps

The Sahbirin case continues to attract public attention, especially since he has not yet been detained despite being a suspect. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) emphasizes that the investigation is still ongoing, with the investigative team actively examining witnesses and gathering necessary evidence.

The goal of this process is to ensure that all parties involved, including Sahbirin Noor, can be held legally accountable with strong evidence. The KPK also reminds that no party should attempt to influence witnesses, while the public continues to provide criticism so that this case can be revealed transparently and clearly before the public.

5. Sahbirin Noor's Politics in the Era

In the midst of the storm of controversy, Sahbirin Noor still carves out support from several members of the community who believe in his contributions to South Kalimantan. However, the challenges looming ahead add a layer of uncertainty to his political journey.

Many argue that his leadership must align with accountability for the legal case that threatens him, thus the pressure to focus on resolving this issue in order to maintain credibility as a public official is growing stronger. Now, public attention is directed towards the steps that will be taken by the KPK and how Sahbirin will face this situation, as all of this will be key to his reputation as a regional leader.

6. What caused Sahbirin Noor to become a suspect of the KPK?

Sahbirin Noor is currently under scrutiny after being suspected of involvement in a bribery scandal related to an infrastructure project in South Kalimantan, which was uncovered thanks to a sting operation (OTT) conducted by the KPK. This case has shaken the local political scene and highlights the rampant corruption still prevalent in the development sector.

7. Is Sahbirin Noor still serving as the Governor of South Kalimantan?

Despite being designated as a suspect, Sahbirin continues to perform his role as the Governor of South Kalimantan to this day, adding tension and public attention to the political situation in the region.

8. What are the KPK's steps in investigating the Sahbirin Noor case?

The KPK is moving forward decisively in the investigation of this case, and has now detained several other suspects involved. This step demonstrates the anti-corruption agency's commitment to resolving this case and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

(kpl/rmt)