An Indonesian court sentenced Nadiem Makarim, the co-founder of Gojek and former education minister, to 10 years in prison on Tuesday [1].
The ruling marks a significant legal blow to one of Southeast Asia's most prominent tech entrepreneurs and a former high-ranking government official. It underscores the Indonesian government's ongoing efforts to target high-level corruption within public procurement processes.
The sentencing took place on June 30, 2026 [1] at the anti-graft court in Jakarta [2]. Makarim was convicted of abuse of authority and causing state losses linked to a procurement program for school Chromebooks [3].
Prosecutors said the decision to procure these devices during the COVID-19 pandemic was linked to Google’s investment in Gojek [4]. The court found that the procurement process resulted in substantial financial damage to the public treasury.
Reports on the financial impact of the case vary. Some sources indicate state losses of about $120 million [4], while other reports state the court ordered restitution of $45 million [5].
Makarim previously served as the education minister, where he oversaw the digital transformation of schools. The case focused on whether his private business ties influenced public policy and procurement decisions during a global health crisis.
The 10-year sentence [1] reflects the severity with which the Jakarta court views the intersection of private corporate interests and public office.
“Sentenced to 10 years in prison for abuse of authority”
This conviction highlights the legal risks associated with 'revolving door' dynamics between the tech sector and government in Indonesia. By sentencing a high-profile figure like Makarim, the anti-graft court is signaling that previous professional success or political status will not provide immunity against corruption charges related to state procurement.
