Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has once again demonstrated its commitment to upholding academic integrity amid ongoing public scrutiny surrounding the alleged falsification of former President Joko Widodo’s diploma.
Following the submission of Joko Widodo’s original diploma by his legal team to the Criminal Investigation Agency of the Indonesian National Police (Bareskrim), a forensic examination confirmed the document’s authenticity.
Meanwhile, public attention has shifted to the civil lawsuit over the diploma, which saw its first hearing at the Sleman District Court on Thursday (May 22).
UGM Secretary Dr. Andi Sandi stated that the university respects the ongoing legal process regarding the civil lawsuit filed by the plaintiff at the Sleman District Court. He also emphasized the university leadership’s readiness to face the lawsuit.
“UGM’s position is clear; we are fully prepared to face this case and will comply with all legal provisions within the judicial system,” he stated in a press briefing on Thursday (May 22).
He explained that UGM had appointed two legal representatives to handle the case: Dr. Ariyanto, who represents the rectorate and the faculty, and Muhammad Zarul Arkom, who represents Kasmudjo.
These appointments reflect the university’s institutional commitment to addressing the legal process seriously.
“Mr. Arkom is a partner of the UGM Faculty of Law’s Center for Legal Studies and Assistance, which is why we have entrusted him with this responsibility,” he added.
Regarding the substance of the lawsuit, Dr. Sandi noted that the case is still in its early stages, so the university is not yet in a position to provide detailed statements.
However, he affirmed that the plaintiff, not the defendants, bears the burden of proof. He also reiterated that UGM will remain unaffected by public opinion outside the courtroom.
“This statement reflects UGM’s firm stance to remain within the legal corridor,” he emphasized.
Concerning legal support provided to Kasmudjo, a retired lecturer from UGM’s Faculty of Forestry, who was named a defendant in the case, Dr. Sandi assured that all parties involved would receive proper legal assistance.
This support is offered without interfering with the individual legal strategies each legal representative prepares.
For UGM, solidarity among academic community members is maintained within the framework of legality and professionalism.
“We coordinated efforts to provide legal counsel for Mr. Kasmudjo as a form of institutional support to our senior colleagues,” he said.
As reported, the trial at the Sleman District Court was postponed after two parties filed for intervenor status but had not yet completed the required administrative documents. Regarding the delay, Dr. Sandi confirmed that it does not affect UGM’s readiness to proceed with the case.
In addition to the case at the Sleman District Court, UGM is also engaged in other legal proceedings related to reports filed with the Jakarta Metropolitan Police (Polda Metro Jaya) and the Surakarta District Court.
In fact, the mediation process at the Surakarta court has failed, and the case will move to the examination stage. During these proceedings, UGM has submitted various academic documents requested by investigators and continues coordinating with Bareskrim and Polda Metro Jaya.
All requests are addressed directly to the institution, and UGM has responded according to formal procedures.
“We have submitted all academic data in UGM’s possession in response to official requests from law enforcement,” said Dr. Sandi.
Regarding Bareskrim’s declaration that President Jokowi’s diploma is authentic, UGM did not interfere in the decision but complied fully with all requests for data and clarification.
In the verification process, UGM submitted supporting academic records, including personal data, academic documents, and photographs of Joko Widodo during his time at the Faculty of Forestry.
UGM also provided witness statements from alumni who were his classmates. This level of involvement reflects UGM’s constructive and accountable role in supporting the investigation.
“I personally accompanied some of our senior colleagues during their testimony,” he disclosed.
Dr. Sandi further emphasized that UGM has not maintained direct communication with Joko Widodo or his team throughout the legal proceedings. This is because the case pertains to the institution, not individuals, and all responses have been conveyed through official institutional channels.
He clarified that there was no particular reason for the absence of direct communication other than the commitment to adhere to official procedures. According to Dr. Sandi, UGM maintains its independence and accountability as a higher education institution committed to academic principles and legal order.
“All requests have been addressed to the institution, and we have complied through the proper procedures,” he affirmed.
With these clarifications, Dr. Sandi expressed hope that the public will understand that UGM is fulfilling its role within the bounds of the law and academic integrity. This commitment reflects UGM’s identity as a university that excels in education and upholds the values of truth, justice, and transparency.
All legal processes involving UGM will be handled with integrity and in accordance with constitutional and academic ethics.
“We will always be ready to provide statements if there are formal requests from law enforcement authorities,” Dr. Sandi concluded.
Author: Triya Andriyani
Photographer: Firsto