Former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim to Spend Eid in Detention Centre

Former Education and Culture Minister Nadiem Anwar Makarim expressed sadness about having to celebrate Eid this year in a detention centre. Makarim said it is the first time he will celebrate Eid separated from his family.

“My hope is that my family can visit me on Eid day, since this is the first Eid where I am separated from my family. So it is quite sad,” said Nadiem Makarim before a hearing at the Corruption Court in Central Jakarta on Monday, 9 March 2026.

Makarim stated he is still undergoing medical treatment for his health recovery. Nevertheless, he is grateful he can still observe the Ramadan fast.

“Well, thank goodness even though I am still receiving treatment due to my medical condition, I am still grateful I can fast, together with my fellow detainees in the detention centre,” he said.

Makarim also expressed sadness about observing the holy month of Ramadan in the detention centre and being separated from his children. He said he still experiences the atmosphere of breaking the fast together with his fellow detainees.

“So there is mutual support, at least there is a communal breaking of the fast atmosphere. So I am grateful, but it is very sad that I cannot be with my family, with my children. That is what really saddens me,” he said.

In this case, Makarim is accused of corruption related to the procurement of Chromebook laptops whilst serving as Education and Culture Minister. The project allegedly caused state losses of Rp 2.1 trillion.

Makarim has filed a motion to dismiss the case. The judge rejected the motion and requested that the hearing proceed to the evidentiary stage.