Chromebook Case Trial: Witness Says Nadiem Promoted a Culture of Discussion

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The trial of the alleged corruption case in the procurement of Chromebooks, which implicates former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim, featured witness Iwan Syahril, Special Staff to the Minister of Education and Culture for Learning in 2019–2020.

In the trial, Iwan revealed Nadiem’s leadership style, which was seen as bringing a new culture to the ministry environment, particularly in decision-making.

According to him, at the beginning of his tenure, there was reluctance from the bureaucratic ranks towards a more open working pattern.

However, over time, this changed into a habit.

He said Nadiem did not issue commands outright, but rather expressed opinions that were then discussed together.

This process involved various levels, from relevant officials to technical directorates.

From the discussion results, ideas were then passed down to the directorate level to be designed into initial policies.

Subsequently, an “iteration” or maturation process was carried out, covering substantive aspects, operational matters, and compliance with regulations.

“The process doesn’t happen immediately. Ideas are continuously refined, challenges in the field are considered, until they are ready to be implemented,” he stated.

He noted that both the minister and his subordinates recognised limitations in understanding technical aspects in detail.

“What is maintained is that the policy direction remains aligned with the targets,” he said.

He also refuted the notion of pressure or threats from the minister towards his subordinates.

During his tenure, he claimed to have never heard or witnessed any intimidation, including threats of mutation for those who did not align.