Minister Bahlil's PhD Dissertation Allegedly Plagiarised from Student Thesis, Netizens Expose Similarities with UIN Student Work

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia faces allegations of academic plagiarism following claims that his doctoral dissertation closely resembles a student thesis from the Islamic State University (UIN).

Netizens have publicly challenged the validity of his PhD from the School of Strategic and Global Studies at the University of Indonesia, citing substantial textual similarities between his dissertation and earlier academic work submitted by a UIN student. Screenshots and comparative analysis have circulated online, highlighting what critics argue are near-identical passages and structural elements shared between the two works.

The allegations have intensified scrutiny of Lahadalia’s academic record, particularly given the relatively swift completion of his doctoral programme. Questions have been raised regarding the university’s due diligence in verifying original authorship and its oversight mechanisms for doctoral submissions.

As Minister of Investment and head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), Lahadalia’s professional credentials have come under public examination. The controversy underscores broader concerns about academic integrity standards in Indonesian higher education institutions and the vetting procedures applied to senior government officials’ qualifications.

The University of Indonesia and relevant academic authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the plagiarism allegations.