Former Indonesian Minister Nadiem Makarim Faces Travel Ban Amid Corruption Probe

JAKARTA – Hotman Paris Hutapea, the legal representative of former Indonesian Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim, addressed rumors regarding a travel ban imposed on his client. Speaking to the press on Friday, June 27, 2025, Hotman stated that Nadiem was unaware of any official notification regarding restrictions on international travel. “My client hasn’t heard about it. We’re just waiting to see what happens next,” Hotman said briefly when asked for confirmation. He emphasized that Nadiem is prepared to comply fully with all applicable legal regulations.

Image was generated by Grok 3

The Attorney General’s Office confirmed that Nadiem has been barred from traveling abroad as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption within the Education Digitization Program from 2019 to 2022, during Nadiem’s tenure as minister. Harli Siregar, Head of the Legal Information Center at the Attorney General’s Office, explained that the travel ban, effective from June 19, 2025, for a six-month period, aims to facilitate a smoother investigation process. “This measure ensures the investigation can proceed without obstacles,” Harli stated in a brief message on Friday.

Hotman reiterated Nadiem’s commitment to cooperating with authorities, saying, “Nadiem is ready to follow all applicable rules.” The former minister, currently a witness in the case, may face further questioning as investigators continue to probe unresolved aspects of the case tied to his role during the program’s implementation. The Education Digitization Program, intended to modernize Indonesia’s education system, has come under scrutiny for alleged financial irregularities during the specified period.

According to Harli, no follow-up examination has been scheduled yet, as investigators are still reviewing Nadiem’s testimony provided on Monday, June 23, 2025. Authorities have indicated that additional data and information requested from Nadiem remain incomplete, necessitating further inquiries. The ongoing investigation reflects Indonesia’s broader efforts to address corruption within public institutions, with high-profile figures like Nadiem under close watch to ensure accountability.

Also Read: