JAKARTA — An Indonesian court sentenced former education minister Nadiem Makarim to 10 years in jail on July 1, 2026, for allegedly manipulating a Chromebook procurement deal. Prosecutors stated the alleged manipulation led to $125 million in state losses.

Makarim pleaded not guilty to the charges. Prosecutors alleged that he favored Google during the procurement of Chromebook laptops for schools in Indonesia from 2021 to 2022, claiming he created tender specifications that only fit the Chrome system. Prosecutors stated the aim was to "make Google the sole controller of the education ecosystem in Indonesia."

Prosecutors claimed Makarim personally gained approximately $46.3 million. They also argued that Chromebooks were purchased despite a 2018 ministry determination that they required an internet connection. Prosecutors stated the internet requirement made the computers unsuitable in remote areas of Indonesia where connectivity is difficult. They stated the ministry proceeded with the purchase after Makarim met with Google representatives in 2020.

Makarim denied the charges and argued that the ministry's choice of purchasing Chromebooks resulted in reduced costs for the government. He also denied that Google's investments in Gojek were connected to the procurement. Prosecutors stated in a May hearing that Makarim's actions violated the government's anti-corruption pledges. Earlier in the month, Makarim told the court, "The reward I received was iron bars."

On Tuesday, dozens of supporters gathered at the Jakarta courthouse, including Gojek drivers. Makarim shook hands and greeted supporters outside the court, and he gave a statement to the media reiterating his innocence before entering the courtroom. Supporters carried white banners with the words "We are with Nadiem" and "Free Nadiem." Makarim walked hand-in-hand with his wife, Franka Makarim, to the courtroom. Supporters outside the courthouse booed as the verdict was read out.