Jakarta. Former Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan expressed shock over the indictment of his long-time friend, former Trade Minister Thomas "Tom" Trikasih Lembong, who was named a suspect by the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) in a 2015 sugar import case.

Tom Lembong, accused of causing Rp 400 billion ($25.57 million) in state losses, allegedly approved an import permit for 105,000 tons of raw sugar despite a domestic surplus.

Anies, who has known Lembong for nearly 20 years, described the Harvard graduate as a person of high integrity who consistently prioritized public interests. "Tom has always put the public first and advocated for Indonesia’s struggling middle class," Anies wrote on his Instagram on Wednesday.

Anies further praised Lembong’s straightforward character and solid reputation, which have earned him respect in both business and government circles. Although surprised by the charges, Anies emphasized the importance of respecting the ongoing legal process, stating he trusts the authorities to conduct their duties with transparency and fairness.

Anies also conveyed a message to Tom, urging him to stay strong and maintain his love for the homeland.

"I still have trust in Tom, and our prayers and support will not waver," Anies added.

On Tuesday, AGO’s Director of Criminal Investigation, Abdul Qohar, revealed that Tom Lembong was detained alongside a businessman identified by the initials DS. Qohar said that Lembong’s authorization of the sugar import went to a private company, contrary to regulations allowing only state-owned enterprises to import raw sugar crystals.

Thomas Lembong, 53, served as trade minister from 2015 to 2016 before leading the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) until 2019. Known as one of President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo’s trusted advisors, Lembong contributed to notable economic speeches, including Jokowi’s Game of Thrones-inspired “Winter is coming” address at the IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings in Bali, and his Avengers: Infinity War-themed speech at the 2018 World Economic Forum.

Since leaving the cabinet, Lembong has openly critiqued the administration and recently endorsed Anies Baswedan, also a former Jokowi minister now regarded as an opposition figure.