The Twisted Path of Budi Arie Setiadi, From Former Minister of Communication to Spotlight in Online Gambling Case

Kapanlagi.com - Former Minister of Communication and Informatics, Budi Arie Setiadi, who is now tasked as the Minister of Cooperatives, recently drew public attention after undergoing an examination at the Bareskrim Polri. The examination, which took place on December 19, 2024, is related to allegations of involvement by several individuals in the Digital Ministry—formerly known as Kominfo—in an online gambling scandal.

On this occasion, Budi Arie appeared as a witness to provide clarification. He explained that his presence at Bareskrim was a manifestation of his responsibility as a law-abiding citizen.

This case has garnered widespread attention because it involves an agency that was once led by Budi. Several employees at Kominfo are alleged to have abused their positions to protect online gambling practices, a striking irony considering that the ministry was known for actively blocking gambling content during Budi's tenure.
This situation has also sparked various speculations regarding internal oversight in the ministry, adding a layer of controversy to this already prominent issue.

1. Profile

Budi Arie Setiadi, a figure born in Jakarta on April 20, 1969, embarked on a brilliant educational journey, starting from elementary to high school in the capital, before continuing to the University of Indonesia (UI) to study Communication Science.

There, he not only earned his bachelor's degree in 1996 but also carved his name as a leader among students by serving as the Chairman of the Student Representative Body (BPM) of FISIP UI and becoming a loud voice in Suara Mahasiswa UI, a press organization that sharpened his awareness of social issues.

His involvement in various organizations and campus activities has shaped him into a critical and sensitive individual, ready to face challenges in the real world.

2. Journalistic Career and Early Political Path

After completing his studies at the University of Indonesia, Budi stepped into the world of journalism as a writer for economic media, such as Kontan. Amid the vibrant reform of 1998, he boldly took a daring step by establishing the newspaper Bergerak, which amplified the voice of the people.

Five years later, Budi ventured into the political arena by joining PDIP, where he served as the Chairman of the Research and Development Department of PDIP Jakarta until 2010.

Not stopping there, in 2013, he launched the volunteer organization PROJO to support President Joko Widodo, a smart move that further solidified his footprint on the national political stage.

3. From the Minister of Communication and Information to the Minister of Cooperatives

On July 17, 2023, Budi officially took office as the Minister of Communication and Information (Menkominfo), succeeding Johnny G. Plate who left the position due to a corruption case.

Under his leadership, Budi successfully built thousands of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) in remote areas, as well as blocked more than 3.8 million online gambling content, affirming his dedication to creating a cleaner digital space.

Shortly after that, in October 2024, President Prabowo Subianto appointed him as the Minister of Cooperatives, where Budi is determined to strengthen the cooperative sector as the foundation of a sustainable people's economy.

4. Online Gambling Controversy

The online gambling case involving employees of the Digital Ministry (formerly Kominfo) has now captured public attention, especially after the National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency summoned Budi to provide testimony as a witness.

With an open attitude, Budi expressed his readiness to collaborate in the legal process, even though he was not directly involved. However, this situation raises significant questions about oversight in the ministry during his tenure, adding to the challenges Budi faces in maintaining his reputation as a trusted public figure.

5. What is Budi Arie Setiadi's educational background?

Budi, a figure full of enthusiasm, earned a Bachelor's degree in Communication Science before continuing his adventure in the academic world by pursuing a Master's program in Social Development Management at the University of Indonesia.

6. What is Budi Arie's greatest contribution to Kominfo?

He became the frontline in combating online gambling by successfully blocking more than 3.8 million illegal content, while also promoting the development of cellular towers in remote areas.

7. What is Budi Arie's role in PROJO?

As the Chairman of PROJO, he emerged as one of the main pillars supporting President Joko Widodo in the 2014 Presidential Election.

8. What is Budi Arie's response to the online gambling case?

Budi firmly expressed his support for the ongoing legal process, and he is committed to fully collaborating in the investigation being conducted.

(kpl/srr)