The recent fraud case involving Bank Mayapada has raised serious concerns about internal corruption, weak regulatory oversight, and the vulnerabilities of centralized financial institutions. With allegations of illegal credit disbursement and undisclosed kickbacks, the case reflects structural weaknesses that are difficult to detect or prevent within the current system.
Between 2014 and 2021, businessman Ted Sioeng is alleged to have received more than Rp1.3 trillion in loans from Bank Mayapada while making over Rp500 billion in payments to the bank’s founder, Dato Sri Tahir. These payments were reportedly made in exchange for continued access to credit. Despite ongoing violations of lending limits and repeated transactions with a small number of corporations, the bank continued operating with minimal regulatory intervention. Only after the borrower defaulted and fled abroad did enforcement actions begin.
This incident illustrates a recurring pattern. Centralized financial institutions often rely on internal controls that are difficult to monitor externally. Regulatory bodies respond slowly, and transactions remain largely opaque to the public. As a result, misconduct can continue unchecked for years.
The question now is whether emerging technologies like blockchain can prevent this kind of fraud before it happens:
1. What Makes Blockchain Different
Blockchain systems operate with built-in transparency, open access to transaction data, and decentralized control. Each transaction is recorded in an immutable public ledger, providing a layer of accountability that traditional systems struggle to match. In particular, blockchain-based financial applications can automate credit decisions using smart contracts, which eliminate the need for personal relationships or subjective approval.
Among blockchain networks, Terra Classic (LUNC) presents a compelling case for practical use. Its low transaction fees, fast processing times, and active development community position it as a potential foundation for transparent, efficient, and scalable financial infrastructure.
2. The Role of LUNC in a Modern Financial System
LUNC processes transactions quickly and at very low cost. This makes it suitable for both small payments and larger financial operations. Unlike traditional banks, LUNC does not rely on human discretion to approve transfers or disburse funds. It runs on code that executes only when predefined conditions are met. These characteristics reduce the possibility of fraud, favoritism, or delay.
In a system using LUNC-based lending protocols, the kind of misconduct alleged in the Mayapada case would be difficult to carry out. Each loan approval would be visible on-chain. Any payment or transfer of value could be verified in real time. There would be no room for private arrangements or unrecorded commissions.
LUNC also enables global access. In a digital economy where capital must move freely and securely, centralized systems face growing limitations. Decentralized networks provide a viable alternative that can serve both individuals and institutions, especially in regions where financial trust is low or regulation is inconsistent.
Conclusion
The Bank Mayapada fraud case has exposed once again the weaknesses of traditional finance. It demonstrates the need for financial systems that do not rely solely on trust, internal review, or delayed oversight. Blockchain, and LUNC in particular, provides a practical and scalable solution to many of these problems.
While no technology is perfect, LUNC represents a step toward a financial system that is transparent, efficient, and less vulnerable to manipulation. As trust in centralized institutions continues to erode, it is likely that decentralized alternatives will no longer be seen as experimental. They may become essential.