Researcher Rismon Sianipar Confirms Jokowi's Diploma Is Authentic After Meeting Vice President Gibran

Researcher and writer Rismon Sianipar has stated that the diploma of Indonesia’s seventh president Joko Widodo (Jokowi) is authentic following an extended review of the document. The statement was made by Rismon after an audience with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka at the Vice Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Friday, 13 March 2025.

Rismon said the findings were obtained after retracing the document over approximately two to three months. He stressed that as a researcher, he has a responsibility to correct or revise his research if he discovers new facts.

“As a researcher, I must be honest, even towards my own research. If something is wrong, it must be corrected,” Rismon told journalists.

According to him, the latest review demonstrates that Jokowi’s diploma is authentic. He noted that the conclusion can be explained simply to the public.

“Yes, it is authentic. Based on my research,” he said.

Rismon explained that the analysis employed several technical approaches, including geometric analysis, translation, rotation, and lighting examination to inspect various features in the document. These methods were used to trace elements such as watermarks, embossing, and stamp impressions that were previously disputed.

He assessed that several details on the document could appear different depending on the angle of lighting or colour characteristics, so analysis needed to be conducted more comprehensively.

During the meeting, Rismon also revealed that he was received positively by Vice President Gibran. He said Jokowi’s family also demonstrated openness towards his research.

“From the Vice President’s explanation, their extended family is open to research and correction,” Rismon said.

He added that when he previously met directly with Jokowi in Solo, the former president also accepted his apology regarding the controversy surrounding allegations of a forged diploma.

Rismon described the apology as a form of academic responsibility as a researcher who must be prepared to correct findings if new data emerges.

Going forward, he plans to document all his research findings in a book he is currently writing. Rismon is targeting completion of the book by 2026, which will contain detailed explanations of his methodology and research results.

“I will prove it in my writings. Research is ongoing and requires time,” he said.

Previously, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka welcomed the apology delivered by Rismon. He viewed this stance as demonstrating maturity in democracy, particularly as it was expressed during Ramadan, a month associated with mutual forgiveness.