Ibrahim Arief Reveals Chat with Nadiem, Alludes to "Highest Mission in the Country"

Jakarta - Former technology consultant in the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek) Ibrahim Arief has revealed the content of his first conversation with former Minister of Education Nadiem Makarim.

“I want to share the display of my first chat with Nadiem Anwar Makarim. This is dated 15 January 2020,” said Ibrahim while reading his personal plea in the trial at the Jakarta Corruption Court on Thursday (23/4/2026).

This conversation took place one month after Ibam, Ibrahim’s affectionate nickname, was involved in the discussion process for the Chromebook procurement.

At that time, Nadiem had just been inaugurated as minister.

“Hey Bam, this is Minister Bro,” Nadiem said to Ibam.

In this conversation, which used English, Ibam and Nadiem initially discussed a lot about their experiences in the startup and technology world.

The conversation then shifted to aligning their visions between the two.

Ibam read a message whose sender was not specified.

“This is the highest mission in this country right now. Be proud and work totally in the process. Nothing will harm us, and this will not get worse,” said Ibam.

Ibam said, “Famous last words.”

This phrase is often used when referring to moments of reflection.

When someone is optimistic in doing something, but the following facts do not match expectations.

Ibam continued reading the rest of the message with Nadiem, “Whatever we do, our children will feel the difference. And that’s the only thing that matters.”