Gibran Embraces Rismon Sianipar at Vice Presidential Palace: We Are Brothers
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka received Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar at the Vice Presidential Palace in Jakarta. Gibran described the two as brothers after Rismon conveyed an apology to the 7th President of the Republic of Indonesia, Joko Widodo (Jokowi).
According to Antara news agency on Friday 13 March 2026, Rismon, accompanied by his lawyer, arrived at the Vice Presidential Palace at approximately 10:00 WIB. The meeting between Gibran and Rismon was held privately and lasted 45 minutes before both exited the room.
Gibran, wearing a dark blue suit and white shirt, briefly conversed with and shook hands with Rismon. “Thank you, thank you, thank you. In any case, we are brothers. That is settled, there is nothing more to discuss,” said Gibran whilst embracing Rismon’s body.
Afterwards, Gibran presented a large gift parcel to Rismon. “Here, you are heading home to your village,” Gibran said to Rismon.
Upon hearing this, Rismon laughed whilst carrying the parcel, though somewhat overwhelmed by its size.
Rismon, who faced charges of allegedly producing a forged diploma regarding Jokowi, issued an apology and clarification through the Balige Academy YouTube channel, which was uploaded on Wednesday 11 March.
Through this clarification, Rismon discovered several new findings which he substantiated through scientific and academic rigour, including concerning the authenticity of Jokowi’s diploma.
According to him, examination objects such as embossing and watermarks on the diploma demonstrated consistency, thereby supporting evidence of the diploma’s authenticity.
On this occasion, he conveyed his apologies to Jokowi and the public regarding his latest findings on Jokowi’s diploma. The apology represented his responsibility after researching and identifying changes to Jokowi’s diploma.
“Of course, I also apologise to the public. Especially to relevant parties such as Mr Joko Widodo; this is the responsibility of a researcher who must remain independent, prepared to be criticised, insulted, with narratives created at will,” he said.
In response to this apology, Gibran stated in a written statement on Thursday 12 March evening that Ramadan is an opportune month for mutual forgiveness and the restoration of brotherhood.
“Ramadan is an excellent month for mutual forgiveness and for rebuilding the bonds of brotherhood,” said Gibran.
Gibran also commended Rismon’s statement and position in providing clarification and his willingness to review previously made public statements. This step was regarded as demonstrating maturity in democratic practice.