INDONESIAUPDATES.COM, News En – Indonesian President Joko Widodo, widely known as Jokowi, has firmly stated that he is under no obligation to present his academic diploma to the Tim Pembela Ulama dan Aktivis (TPUA), an activist group questioning the legitimacy of his educational background.
“Some of them are requesting that I show my original diploma. I told them there is no obligation for me to do that,” Jokowi said after meeting with TPUA representatives at his private residence in Solo.
Jokowi also emphasized that TPUA lacks the legal authority to demand such documents. “They do not have the power to regulate or compel me to show my original diploma,” he added, as quoted by state news agency Antara.
UGM Responds to Diploma Controversy
In response to the public debate, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Jokowi’s alma mater, has reaffirmed its readiness to provide all academic records pertaining to the president — but only upon official request from the judiciary or law enforcement agencies.
“We are an academic institution that adheres strictly to educational regulations,” said UGM Vice Rector Wening Udasmoro. “We can provide full information about President Jokowi’s academic journey at UGM, from enrollment to his graduation on November 5, 1985.”
UGM Displays Authentic Documentation
UGM has already presented a variety of authentic documentation to clarify the matter. These include a copy of Jokowi’s high school graduation certificate (STTB), college transcripts, his undergraduate thesis, and archival photos of Jokowi with classmates. Some of those former classmates have also come forward to verify his academic presence at the university.
Vice Rector Wening emphasized that UGM has no intention of defending Jokowi as a political figure. “We act purely as an educational institution. We are not involved in any social media narratives or political controversies. We will only take action if there is an official legal request,” she said.
Transparency with Limits
UGM’s response is seen as a balanced stance — showing a commitment to transparency and accountability, while also respecting institutional protocols. The university’s willingness to provide full disclosure through legal channels underscores the importance of due process and the independence of academic institutions in politically charged environments.
While the controversy over Jokowi’s diploma has resurfaced multiple times, the reiteration of facts and documents by UGM — combined with Jokowi’s own statements — may help bring clarity and closure to a debate largely fueled by misinformation and political speculation.
Pertanyaan Umum (FAQ): Jokowi’s Diploma Controversy
Q1: What is the controversy about President Jokowi’s diploma?
The controversy revolves around allegations that President Joko Widodo’s university diploma may be fake or invalid. These claims have been repeatedly raised by various groups, including the Team of Defenders of Ulama and Activists (TPUA), despite official clarifications from Jokowi’s alma mater, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM).
Q2: Did President Jokowi respond to the accusations?
Yes. On April 16, 2025, President Jokowi stated clearly that he has no legal obligation to show his original diploma to TPUA or other non-official parties. He emphasized that only authorized legal institutions can request such documentation.
Q3: Has Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) confirmed Jokowi’s educational background?
Yes. UGM has publicly confirmed that Joko Widodo was a student at their institution and graduated on November 5, 1985. The university has also presented supporting documents, including:
-
High school graduation certificate (STTB)
-
University records and thesis
-
Photos with classmates
-
Testimonies from former classmates
Q4: Why doesn’t UGM release all the data publicly?
UGM stated that they are willing to open all academic records, but only through official legal requests from courts or law enforcement. This policy follows academic and legal regulations protecting student records.
Q5: Is UGM defending President Jokowi?
No. UGM made it clear they are not acting on behalf of the president, but simply fulfilling their role as an academic institution. They maintain a neutral stance and emphasize their commitment to transparency, accountability, and adherence to educational laws.
Q6: Has any legal authority questioned the authenticity of Jokowi’s diploma?
As of now, no Indonesian court or government institution has found any evidence that would invalidate Jokowi’s academic credentials. The issue has largely been driven by public speculation and social media discourse.
Q7: Why does this issue keep resurfacing?
The diploma controversy tends to resurface during politically sensitive periods. It is often used as a tool to question Jokowi’s legitimacy, despite repeated clarifications and a lack of credible evidence.
Q8: What happens if a court officially requests Jokowi’s academic data?
UGM has stated it will fully comply with any formal legal request from the judiciary or law enforcement. This means they would legally share all relevant documents with the appropriate authority.
FOLLOW INDONESIAUPDATES.COM ON GOOGLE NEWS
