Indonesian Suspected of Research Fraud at International Conference, DPR Commission X Calls for Investigation

Deputy Chairman of the DPR Commission X, Lalu Hadrian Irfani, highlighted an Indonesian citizen suspected of falsifying research at the International Pneumococci and Pneumococcal Diseases (ISPPD) conference in Denmark. He stated that the case could tarnish Indonesia’s reputation in international education if proven true.

‘We are deeply concerned about the alleged research scandal involving Indonesians in an international academic forum. If data manipulation, academic identity falsification, or AI-generated fictitious research is confirmed, this not only breaches academic ethics but also damages Indonesia’s reputation,’ Lalu told reporters on Wednesday, 27 June 2026.

Lalu Hadrian said the case, which has sparked public discussion, serves as a serious warning for the education sector. He called for an investigation and enforcement of ethical sanctions against those involved.

‘This case must serve as a serious warning for higher education and national research. We urge an investigation and ethical sanctions if the allegations are proven,’ Lalu said.

‘The actions of a few individuals must not undermine international trust in Indonesian academics and researchers who have consistently worked with honesty and professionalism,’ he added.

He stressed that the government, universities, and research institutions must strengthen oversight of academic integrity governance. Indonesia, he added, needs an academic culture that prioritises integrity.

‘AI should be a tool to enhance research quality, not manipulate academic work. Indonesia requires an academic culture that upholds honesty, accountability, and meritocracy to safeguard the reputation of national education and research,’ he said.

Ministry Statement

Previously, Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto said his ministry was paying attention to the case.

‘The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is monitoring reports of alleged academic integrity and research ethics violations involving parties using Indonesian institutional affiliations,’ Brian said when contacted on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.

Brian stated his ministry is investigating the alleged research fraud by Indonesians, adding that the probe aims to establish facts and the individuals’ status at the conference.

‘We are currently coordinating and investigating with relevant parties to confirm the facts, including the individuals’ status, the type of affiliation used, and their connection to Indonesian higher education institutions or research bodies,’ he said.

‘However, we must also prioritise caution. All parties should be given room to clarify, and each allegation must be objectively verified based on evidence and established academic and research procedures,’ he added.

Brian revealed that the Indonesians involved are not indicated as active lecturers or researchers. He said the ministry remains concerned as the case could impact perceptions of the national research ecosystem.

‘Based on initial information, those mentioned in the case are not indicated as active lecturers or researchers at Indonesian universities. Nevertheless, the issue remains a concern as it could affect broader perceptions of the national research ecosystem,’ he said.

‘Indonesia has research integrity evaluation mechanisms through universities, ethics committees, LPPM, academic quality assurance systems, and monitoring and evaluation mechanisms by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology and BRIN within their respective authorities,’ he explained.