Nadiem Makarim, co-founder of Southeast Asia's leading super-app Gojek and Indonesia's former Minister of Education, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after a Jakarta court found him guilty in a high-profile corruption case linked to a government Chromebook procurement programme.
The 41-year-old entrepreneur was convicted of manipulating a school laptop procurement project during his tenure as education minister to unlawfully enrich himself. Makarim pleaded not guilty throughout the trial and has announced that he will appeal the verdict.
In addition to the prison sentence, the court ordered him to pay 809 billion Indonesian rupiah (approximately US$45 million) in restitution. According to Makarim, his inability to pay the amount could result in an additional five years' imprisonment, effectively extending his sentence to 15 years. The court also imposed a one billion rupiah fine, with a further 190 days in jail if the penalty remains unpaid.
Chromebook Procurement at the Centre of the Case
The case stems from Indonesia's education ministry procurement of Chromebook laptops between 2021 and 2022.
Prosecutors alleged that the ministry proceeded with large-scale Chromebook purchases despite an earlier internal assessment concluding that the devices were unsuitable for many schools in remote regions because they required reliable internet connectivity.
According to the prosecution, the procurement continued after Makarim met representatives of Google in 2020.
Investigators further alleged that procurement specifications were drafted in a manner that favoured Google's Chrome ecosystem, effectively limiting competition and positioning Google as the dominant technology provider within Indonesia's education sector.
Prosecutors argued that these actions resulted in approximately US$125 million in losses to the Indonesian state while personally benefiting Makarim.
Former Minister Denies Wrongdoing
Makarim rejected all allegations throughout the proceedings.
He maintained that the 809 billion rupiah cited by prosecutors had remained within Gojek's corporate accounts and was never transferred to him personally.
He also denied that Google's investment relationship with Gojek influenced the procurement process and argued that the Chromebook programme actually reduced procurement costs for the government.
Following the verdict, Makarim expressed disappointment and reaffirmed his intention to challenge the conviction.
"I do not know what words I can use to explain how I feel today," he told reporters.
"I do not know whom I should ask for help, or where I can seek justice. My only hope is in the Indonesian people, in those who still believe that truth still exists in this country."
Supporters Gather Outside Court
Dozens of supporters assembled outside the Jakarta courthouse before the judgment, including many Gojek drivers wearing the company's distinctive green jackets.
Supporters carried banners reading "We are with Nadiem" and "Free Nadiem."
As the verdict was announced, Makarim became visibly emotional inside the courtroom while supporters outside responded with loud boos.
His family also attended the hearing, with relatives describing the lengthy legal proceedings as emotionally exhausting.
Political Debate Surrounds the Conviction
The case has generated significant public debate within Indonesia.
Several legal experts, civil society figures and political observers have questioned the strength of the prosecution's evidence, suggesting the investigation may have broader political implications.
Critics argue that anti-corruption laws should not be selectively applied or perceived as instruments against political opponents.
Others have expressed concern that the conviction could discourage experienced private-sector professionals from accepting public service roles, fearing potential criminal liability for policy decisions.
Observers have also drawn comparisons with recent corruption cases involving other former officials who were later granted presidential pardons.
The verdict comes at a time of growing public dissatisfaction in Indonesia, where rising living costs, a weakening rupiah, and nationwide protests have intensified scrutiny of government policies.
Shunyatax Global Insight
The conviction of one of Indonesia's most prominent technology entrepreneurs highlights the increasing scrutiny surrounding public procurement and government decision-making. Regardless of the outcome of future appeals, the case underscores the importance of transparent procurement practices, robust conflict-of-interest safeguards, and accountability mechanisms in public administration. It also reflects the complex intersection of technology, governance, and politics in rapidly developing digital economies.
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