Minister of Higher Education Prepares Legal Action Over Fake Research Scandal
The Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, has stated that the government is currently reviewing legal measures against parties suspected of involvement in identity and research forgery during the International Symposium on Pneumococci and Pneumococcal Diseases (ISPPD) held in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 17–21 May 2026.
The case emerged following revelations of alleged scientific publication manipulation involving Indonesian citizens and alumni of Yogyakarta State University (UNY), namely Prihantinian and Rifaldy Fajar. It is alleged that they engaged in forgery during presentations and utilised artificial intelligence (AI) applications to present research that did not actually exist. These manipulative actions were reportedly carried out to secure travel grants for overseas trips.
Brian stated that his Ministry has formed an investigation team led by the Inspector General of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology to probe the case. The Ministry is also coordinating with Yogyakarta State University (UNY), the institution where one of the suspects completed their undergraduate studies.
“As soon as we received this information, we immediately formed a team led by the Inspector General. We have also coordinated with UNY, the campus where the alleged perpetrator completed their bachelor’s degree,” Brian said on Tuesday, 2 June 2026.
From preliminary investigations, the Ministry found that most of the parties suspected of involvement do not hold formal affiliations as lecturers or researchers within Indonesian higher education institutions. This situation limits the Ministry’s authority to impose administrative sanctions. Brian explained that the Ministry can only process ethical and disciplinary violations against lecturers or educators under the jurisdiction of higher education institutions. “If they are not lecturers and do not have a formal affiliation with higher education, we cannot take action against them,” he noted.
Nevertheless, the investigation continues. According to Brian, UNY has summoned four individuals suspected of being linked to the case to provide statements regarding their motives and roles. The Ministry is currently focused on gathering evidence that could serve as the basis for legal proceedings. One initial finding is the unauthorised use of university affiliations in international publications and conferences.
“We have observed the unauthorised use of affiliations from certain universities in Indonesia. This means they are misappropriating the names of universities without permission and committing fraud,” said Brian.
He assessed that the case involves more than just academic ethical violations; it also has the potential to damage the reputation of Indonesian researchers globally. He noted that several works presented at the conference were far below the standards of accountable scientific work. Consequently, the Ministry is considering legal action as a deterrent. “We believe that without legal action, we fear it will fail to serve as a deterrent,” Brian concluded.