Disclaimer: This article is an editorial that highlights the problems in Indonesia today

PIKIRAN RAKYAT - Indonesia faces two major issues that are eroding the nation at the moment: corruption and gambling. Corruption is rampant among the upper echelons, while gambling is a common practice among the lower class community.

The never-ending corruption case of former Minister of Agriculture Syahrul Yasin Limpo (SYL) stands as concrete evidence. Two key witnesses revealed that SYL ordered his subordinates to bribe the House of Representatives (DPR) and Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).

On the other hand, online gambling is on the rise and even involves dozens of police officers in North Sumatra. The presence of gambling practice among the elites also warrants caution.

Baca Juga: Indonesia Hari Ini: Pejabatnya Kecanduan Korupsi, Rakyatnya Ketagihan Judi

Baca Juga: Transaksi Judi Online Tembus Rp600 Triliun, 80 Persen Pemainnya Masyarakat Berpenghasilan Rendah

The involvement of the police, Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), House of Representatives (DPR) , and government officials in various actions that are detrimental to the state is increasingly getting exposed. This raises concerns about the nation's future.

President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) calls for optimism, yet he seems to ignore the facts that is spread along the field. The question is, where is the root of the problem? Is it in the structure of government institutions or the integrity of the leaders?

Integrity is indeed the key. Strict selection is essential before occupying high positions in the executive, legislative, and judiciary. However, in reality, this is definitely not the case. Integrity must be proven through attitude and action.

One solution is to evaluate the current structure of government institutions. The constitution should be the main reference. Given the increasing "blemishes" on Indonesia's face, the effectiveness of the constitution needs to be questioned. Weaknesses in the constitution, whether in the form of laws or other constitutional regulations, can be loopholes for corruption and gambling.

The plan on providing social assistance to victims of online gambling by the Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, Muhadjir Effendi, has drawn public ridicule. In other countries, online gambling perpetrators are prosecuted; in Indonesia, they are instead helped.

President Joko Widodo’s term is nearing its end. What legacy will he leave behind? Will it be extraordinary infrastructure development, nepotism, the flawed development of the new capital city, or failure to eradicate corruption? One thing is certain: the "blemishes" on the nation's face must be promptly erased. They must not be allowed to spread and bring shame to the country.

Many nations that once suffered from severe corruption have successfully restored their dignity through hard and decisive efforts.

The challenges vary, but the key is firm and decisive action. However, anti-corruption efforts in Indonesia are often manipulated with various arguments seemingly based on law.

Such deceptive and manipulative actions must be stopped immediately. Indonesia does not need to be convoluted to showcase its identity as a friendly and polite nation.

The future of the Indonesian nation is at stake. The "flaws" can only be removed with concrete actions and a strong commitment from all parties on Indonesia’s face be removed to pave the way for a better future.*** (Politeknik Bandung/Yeurley Arba Nabila)