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Former Gojek CEO and Ex-Education Minister Nadiem Makarim Sentenced to 10 Years: Full Case Chronology
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
Indonesia has witnessed one of its most closely watched legal cases after former Education, Culture, Research and Technology Minister Nadiem Makarim was sentenced to 10 years in prison over the government's Chromebook procurement program. The verdict has sparked widespread discussion across the country. While prosecutors argued that the procurement caused significant financial losses to the state, Nadiem has consistently denied any wrongdoing and announced that he will appeal the decision.
The case has attracted attention not only within Indonesia but also from the international business community because of Nadiem's role as the co-founder of Gojek, one of Southeast Asia's most successful technology companies.
Who Is Nadiem Makarim?
Before entering public service, Nadiem Makarim became widely known as the co-founder and former CEO of Gojek, a company that transformed Indonesia's digital economy by offering ride-hailing, food delivery, digital payments, and other online services. In 2019, he stepped down from Gojek after being appointed Indonesia's Minister of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, where he led several education reform initiatives.
The Chromebook Procurement Program
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Indonesia launched a major digital learning initiative to support schools through remote education. As part of the program, the ministry procured large numbers of Google Chromebook laptops for schools across the country.
According to prosecutors, decisions surrounding the procurement process resulted in approximately Rp2 trillion (around US$125 million) in state losses. They alleged that the procurement improperly favored Google's Chromebook ecosystem and involved an abuse of authority.
Chronology of the Case >
2020–2022: Digital Learning Initiative
The Ministry of Education implemented a nationwide laptop procurement program to support online learning during the pandemic. Chromebooks were selected as one of the primary devices for schools participating in the digital education program.
Investigation Begins
Authorities later launched an investigation into the procurement process after questions were raised regarding purchasing decisions, procurement procedures, and alleged conflicts of interest.
The investigation eventually expanded into one of Indonesia's highest-profile corruption cases involving a former cabinet minister.
Criminal Charges Filed
Prosecutors accused Nadiem of abusing his authority during the procurement process and alleged that government decisions benefited certain parties while causing substantial losses to the state.
They sought a prison sentence significantly longer than the one ultimately imposed by the court.
June 2026: Court Verdict
On June 30, 2026, the Jakarta Corruption Court found Nadiem Makarim guilty.
The court sentenced him to:
10 years in prison
A fine of Rp1 billion
An order to repay hundreds of billions of rupiah, with additional imprisonment if the repayment is not made.
The panel of judges concluded that there had been an abuse of authority in the Chromebook procurement process. However, reports also noted that one judge issued a dissenting opinion, disagreeing with parts of the majority decision.
Nadiem's Response
Following the verdict, Nadiem maintained his innocence.
He stated that the procurement process complied with existing regulations and argued that expert witnesses and evidence presented during the trial did not prove personal enrichment or intentional corruption.
He described the ruling as unjust and confirmed that he would file an appeal through Indonesia's legal system.
Public Reaction
The verdict generated strong reactions across Indonesia.
Some members of the public believe the court's decision demonstrates the country's commitment to combating corruption, regardless of a person's status or public profile.
Others—including some academics, entrepreneurs, technology leaders, and supporters—have questioned aspects of the prosecution and expressed concern that the case could discourage experienced private-sector professionals from entering government service. Some observers have also raised broader questions about legal certainty and its potential impact on investor confidence.
Impact on Indonesia's Business Community
Nadiem Makarim has long been regarded as one of Indonesia's most influential entrepreneurs.
Because of his reputation in the startup ecosystem, the verdict has drawn attention from international investors, technology companies, and business leaders.
Analysts say the case could influence discussions about corporate governance, public procurement, and the relationship between private-sector innovation and public office in Indonesia.
What Happens Next?
The legal process is not yet over. Nadiem's legal team has announced plans to appeal the verdict, meaning higher courts will review the case before a final legal outcome is reached.
Until the appeals process concludes, the case is expected to remain one of Indonesia's most closely followed legal and political stories.
The conviction of Nadiem Makarim marks a significant moment in Indonesia's legal and political landscape. As the founder of one of Southeast Asia's most successful technology companies and a former cabinet minister, his case has attracted national and international attention.
While the court concluded that the Chromebook procurement involved corruption and abuse of authority, Nadiem continues to deny the allegations and is pursuing an appeal. The outcome of that appeal could have lasting implications for Indonesia's legal system, public governance, and investor confidence.
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