Former Indonesian Minister Nadiem Makarim Sentenced to 10 Years for Corruption

A Jakarta court has sentenced former Indonesian Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, Nadiem Makarim, to 10 years in prison for corruption charges related to the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome Device Management (CDM). The verdict was delivered on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at the Central Jakarta Corruption Court.

The trial garnered significant attention, with a notable presence of online motorcycle taxi drivers, many affiliated with Gojek, who gathered to show their support for Makarim. Dozens of drivers, clad in their uniforms, filled the court's lobby and watched the proceedings on screen. Makarim acknowledged their support, greeting the drivers and signing their jackets before the verdict was read.

Several public figures, including artists and influencers such as Jovial da Lopez, Mira Lesmana, Happy Salma, Riri Riza, and Christine Hakim, were also present to witness the verdict. Makarim's family members, dressed in white, were also in attendance.

Upon hearing the sentence, supporters and family members reacted with audible disappointment, with heavy sighs and shouts of "Free Nadiem!" and "The verdict is unjust!" The online motorcycle taxi drivers were heard booing the chief judge's decision, and some relatives were seen weeping. Frustration was also evident during a subsequent press conference with the prosecutor, where supporters booed and expressed their dismay.

In a poignant display following the trial's conclusion, Nadiem Makarim and his supporters gathered in the courtyard of the Corruption Court to sing the national anthem, "Indonesia Raya." Surrounded by the crowd, Makarim was seen raising his hands and singing, with tears visible on his face as the anthem echoed.