LPDP Scholarship Recipient Apologises After Viral Remark: 'It's Enough That I'm Indonesian, My Children Shouldn't Be'

A recipient of the Education Fund Management Agency (LPDP) scholarship, identified by the initials DS, who sparked controversy after stating “it’s enough that I’m an Indonesian citizen, my children shouldn’t be,” has issued a public apology. The open apology was delivered via her Instagram account.

As seen by detikcom, the owner of the account @sasetyaningtyas uploaded a clarification and apology on Friday (20 February 2026). She said the statement was born out of disappointment, though she acknowledged that her actions were misguided and inappropriate.

“I fully recognise that the statement was inappropriate and could be interpreted as demeaning Indonesian citizenship. For this, I acknowledge my error in the choice of words and in expressing them in the public domain,” she said.

“Whatever the emotional background behind it, the impact of that statement remains entirely my responsibility. Through this statement, I wish to convey my apology to those who were hurt and for the commotion that ensued,” she continued.

The full text of her apology read:

“In connection with my previous post containing the sentence ‘it’s enough that I alone am an Indonesian citizen, my children should not be,’ I hereby convey an open apology to all members of the public who felt hurt, offended, or uncomfortable with that statement.

“The statement was born entirely from personal disappointment, exhaustion, and frustration as an Indonesian citizen regarding various conditions I have experienced. However, I recognise that such disappointment should not have been expressed in a manner that has the potential to wound the feelings of many, particularly regarding the national identity we collectively uphold.

“I fully recognise that the statement was inappropriate and could be interpreted as demeaning Indonesian citizenship. For this, I acknowledge my error in the choice of words and in expressing them in the public domain.

“Whatever the emotional background behind it, the impact of that statement remains entirely my responsibility. Through this statement, I wish to convey my apology to those who were hurt and for the commotion that ensued.

“I deeply appreciate every piece of criticism and constructive feedback that has been conveyed, as a lesson to continue improving myself, including learning to communicate more wisely, more clearly, and with greater empathy when expressing views in the public sphere.

“I love Indonesia, with all its hopes and challenges, and I hope I can continue to contribute to Indonesia today and in the future.

“May this holy month of Ramadan allow us to set our hearts right, improve ourselves, and focus on worship wholeheartedly.

“Thank you for your attention and kind prayers.”

LPDP Responds

The LPDP expressed its regret over the controversy. It assessed that the woman, identified as DS, did not reflect the values of integrity expected of scholarship recipients.

“The LPDP regrets the social media controversy triggered by the actions of one of its alumni, DS. Her actions do not reflect the values of integrity, ethics, and professionalism that the LPDP instils in all scholarship recipients,” the agency wrote.

Meanwhile, her husband, who is also an LPDP awardee, is suspected of not having completed his mandatory service contribution. The couple are known to be residing in the United Kingdom.

“In accordance with the regulations, all LPDP awardees and alumni are obligated to serve a contribution period in Indonesia lasting twice the duration of their studies plus one year,” the agency said.

“In the case of DS, who undertook two years of study, the contribution obligation amounts to five years,” it added.

The LPDP confirmed that DS is no longer formally associated with the agency, having completed her studies in August 2017.

“DS completed her master’s studies and was declared to have graduated on 31 August 2017, and has fulfilled the entirety of her service obligation in accordance with the regulations. Accordingly, the LPDP no longer has any legal engagement with the individual in question,” the agency said.

“Nonetheless, the LPDP will continue to seek communication with DS to urge her to exercise greater wisdom in her use of social media, to be mindful of public sensitivities, and to remind her that LPDP scholarship recipients have a national obligation to serve their country,” it added.