Government investigates alleged research fabrication by Indonesian citizens at ISPPD conference
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) has announced it will investigate an alleged case of research fabrication involving Indonesian citizens at the International Society of Pneumonia and Pneumococcal Diseases (ISPPD) 2026 conference in Denmark.
During a working meeting with Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) in Jakarta on Tuesday, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, stated that a special investigation team led by the Ministry’s Inspector General has been formed. The Minister noted that they have coordinated with Yogyakarta State University (UNY), the institution where the alleged perpetrator completed their undergraduate studies.
Preliminary investigations into affiliations revealed that most individuals involved do not hold status as lecturers or formal educators at any university in Indonesia. Minister Yuliarto explained that if the perpetrators are not lecturers, the Ministry’s direct authority is limited, as their disciplinary powers primarily apply to academic staff through ethics and disciplinary committees.
Nevertheless, the Minister noted that UNY has proactively summoned four suspects for questioning regarding their motives. Meanwhile, the Ministry continues to gather strong evidence to potentially bring the case into the criminal justice system.
Minister Yuliarto emphasised that such decisive action is necessary because, in addition to the poor and unaccountable quality of the submitted research, the incident causes massive damage to the credibility of national academics. He highlighted that while the individuals may be outside the formal university system, the ethical breach and international visibility of the case could create a negative image for Indonesian researchers globally.
It is reported that the alleged manipulation of scientific data and identities was intentionally carried out by the suspects to secure travel funding, allowing them to attend the overseas conference at no personal cost.