86
Country: Indonesia
Author Name: Okky Madasari
Publisner Name: Gramedia Pustaka Utama
Original Language: Indonesian
Arimbi's parents live in a rural village and work as farmers.
Their dreams were simple: for their daughter to study in Jakarta and build a stable career there.
So when they found out that Arimbi had secured a job as a civil servant at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, they couldn’t be prouder—never mind what the job actually involved.
In reality, Arimbi worked as a typist—occasionally handling photocopying duties as well.
She started her career full of spirit and ideals, eager to serve the country and improve her family’s future.
During her four years at the ministry, she often observed Bu Danti, a senior staff member known for her kindness and warmth toward subordinates.
Although Arimbi noticed Bu Danti’s expensive lifestyle—her branded items, private car, and wide social network—she never thought ill of her.
Things began to shift when Arimbi met Ananta, a surveyor at a credit company who happened to live in the same boarding house.
The two grew close and began spending time together.
Ananta often spoke about his father, also a civil servant, who routinely received persenan—illicit
...commissions.
It was Ananta who eventually persuaded Arimbi to try taking part in that same system.
When her attempt succeeded, Arimbi regretted living so “cleanly” for so long—especially after learning that most of her colleagues, even close friends, had been doing it all along.
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