Merdeka.com – The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) has released a document entitled Paradise Papers. The document contains an investigation into the dismantling of tax avoidance schemes played by billionaires and companies with a global reputation.
Several Indonesians were recorded in the secret document, including the Head of the Investment Coordinating Board, Thomas Lembong, Deputy Governor of DKI Jakarta Sandiaga Uno, and General Chair of the Gerindra Party Prabowo Subianto.
The National Coordinator of Publish What You Pay (PWYP) Indonesia, Maryati Abdullah, said tax evasion by placing wealth in a country with a low tax rate is a moral crime. This tax collection should be used for domestic development.
“We consider it a moral crime. Again, what the poor suffer loses, they pay taxes, collected at home. Rich people, who should pay more taxes, put their funds abroad, “said Maryati at Warung Daun Cikini, Jakarta, Saturday (11/11).
Maryati said that the government must continue to investigate the findings of the heaven documents thoroughly. This is in order to provide justice for the community. “Now there are findings, paradise papers. The government needs to continue what the next step is. Do not be silent and then pass away,” she explained.
Maryati added that the Paradise document’s findings are an opportunity for the government to restore people’s trust in the government in managing taxation. Thus, the rich and powerful are expected to pay taxes according to a predetermined portion.
“So, it is not just returning justice. Nevertheless, this can also increase and restore public confidence in the Director-General of taxes, how the rich pay taxes according to proportions. “