Nadiem: Whatever Today's Verdict, I Am Confident I Am Not Alone

Former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, Nadiem Makarim, delivered a brief statement before undergoing his verdict hearing on Tuesday (30/6). He expressed gratitude for the support he has received while facing the legal process, which has been ongoing for nearly a year. ‘I feel very grateful. In this one-year struggle, I have not felt alone,’ Nadiem said. According to him, support from family, various segments of society, and his belief in the truth have been a source of strength to face whatever the trial’s outcome may be. Nadiem hopes that truth and justice can be upheld in the trial. He also acknowledged the possibility that the verdict might not be entirely based on the facts revealed during the proceedings. ‘Of course, my hope is that truth wins today, that justice still means something in this country. But I am also not naive. I realise that today’s decision might not be based on the trial facts,’ he stated. Nevertheless, Nadiem believes that whatever the outcome of the trial, it will bring a greater wisdom. He mentioned that he represents not only his personal interests and those of his family but also people who, according to him, have experienced or have the potential to experience criminalisation. He hopes that the case he is facing can become a momentum to improve the legal system in Indonesia, from the prosecution and evidentiary processes to decision-making, so that similar cases do not recur. Furthermore, Nadiem asserted that he does not regret his decision to serve the country. He hopes that the legal process he is undergoing will not cause the younger generation to lose the courage to engage in public service. ‘I do not want young people to be afraid to serve the country after this case. What I want is for this to be a golden opportunity. Whatever happens to me, Indonesia must become better,’ he said. Nadiem closed his statement with the hope that Indonesia can provide legal certainty and a sense of security for every citizen who wishes to serve the nation.