Indonesian Education Minister Implicated in Major Chromebook Procurement Scandal

Allegations of Corruption and Personal Gain

Former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim faces serious corruption allegations related to the procurement of Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management (CDM) systems during his tenure. The indictment, presented in court, reveals that Makarim allegedly gained Rp809.6 billion from the controversial procurement process. The case involves a total of 25 individuals and companies accused of enriching themselves through the procurement process worth Rp2.1 trillion.

Details of the Procurement Scandal

The procurement process for Chromebooks and CDM systems was conducted during 2020-2022 through various channels including e-Catalog and the School Procurement Information System (SIPLah). Prosecutors argue that the procurement was conducted without proper price evaluations and was not supported by reference prices. The alleged corruption resulted in state losses amounting to Rp2.1 trillion, broken down into Rp1.56 trillion from markup in Chromebook prices and Rp621.38 billion from CDM procurement deemed unnecessary.

Key Figures and Companies Involved

1. Nadiem Anwar Makarim - Rp809.6 billion
2. Mulyatsyah - SGD120,000 and USD150,000
3. Harnowo Susanto - Rp300 million
4. Various other officials and companies including major technology firms:
   • PT Asus Technology Indonesia
   • PT Lenovo Indonesia
   • PT Hewlett-Packard Indonesia
   • PT Acer Indonesia
   • PT Dell Indonesia

Legal Proceedings and Implications

The case is being tried at the Corruption Court in Jakarta, with several defendants already brought to trial. The prosecution has presented detailed evidence of the alleged corruption, including financial transactions and communication records. The case has significant implications for Indonesia's education sector and technology procurement practices.