LPDP to Impose Two Sanctions, Chief Investigates 36 Scholarship Recipients Who Failed to Return Home

The Director General of the Indonesian Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP), Sudarto, stated that they are currently investigating 36 scholarship recipients who have not fulfilled their obligation to serve in Indonesia.

He revealed this during a press conference held by LPDP at the Ministry of Finance, Central Jakarta.

He explained that based on data from the immigration database of the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, social media monitoring, and several public reports, they have investigated more than 600 LPDP alumni regarding the implementation of their service obligations in Indonesia.

“We are still investigating 36 people (scholarship recipients), including those who went viral,” said Sudarto on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

He ensured that the investigation conducted on the 36 scholarship recipients is carried out proportionally, while also examining the context of the violation. If evidence of a violation is found, Sudarto stated that they will not hesitate to impose sanctions on the scholarship recipients.

“While conducting the investigation, of course, we look at it proportionally, also considering the context. For example, if they are currently working in a top-tier laboratory in the world, a laboratory for producing vaccines or something similar, we will ask for their commitment again,” said Sudarto.

“Because if they leave that position, it is not certain that another Indonesian will be able to take their place. So, once again, it’s about the context,” he added.

Regarding the sanctions that will be imposed if a violation is proven, Sudarto explained that the first sanction is the repayment of educational funds. The second sanction is a ban on access to LPDP programs in the future.

“So, each case is processed objectively and proportionally, considering the facts and context,” he said.

For information, LPDP data as of January 31, records that the total number of LPDP alumni reaches 32,876 people. Of these, 307 are currently undergoing internships or further studies abroad. Meanwhile, as many as 172 people are known to be working in accordance with LPDP regulations.