Antasari Azhar, Former Head of Indonesia's KPK, Dies at 72

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November 8, 2025 | 04:16 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Former chair of Indonesia’s anti-graft agency, the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), Antasari Azhar, passed away on Saturday, November 8, 2025.

He was a key figure in the country’s anti-corruption movement during the late 2000s and one of Indonesia’s most high-profile law enforcement officials.

His lawyer, Boyamin Saiman, confirmed the news after verifying it with several colleagues. “It’s true,” Boyamin said in a voice message on Saturday.

Boyamin said Antasari’s body will be laid to rest at San Diego Hills Cemetery in West Karawang, West Java. Before the burial, funeral prayers will be held at Asy-Syarif Mosque in BSD, South Tangerang, after the Asr prayer.

“The mosque management has prepared the funeral prayer at Asr. I also worship there, so I can confirm that Mr. Antasari has passed away,” Boyamin said.

He asked the public to pray for the late Antasari and forgive any of his past mistakes. “Please pray for him and forgive his mistakes. May he be granted abundant rewards in the hereafter,” he said.

Antasari Azhar was born in Pangkal Pinang, Bangka Belitung, on March 18, 1953. A graduate of Sriwijaya University’s Faculty of Law, he began his career in the legal and prosecutorial field before becoming a prominent figure in Indonesia’s anti-corruption movement.

Throughout his career, Antasari held several key positions in the Attorney General’s Office, serving as district attorney and chief prosecutor in various regions.

His long experience in law enforcement led to his appointment as Chair of the KPK on December 18, 2007.

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