LPDP Investigates Husband of Viral Awardee Over Scholarship Obligations

Jakarta – The Indonesian Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP) is investigating Arya Pamungkas (AP), husband of Dwi Sasetyaningtyas (DS), an LPDP alumna whose recent comments regarding her children’s citizenship sparked public debate. The investigation centers on allegations that AP has not fulfilled his contribution obligations to Indonesia following the completion of his LPDP-funded studies.

Viral Comments and LPDP Response

The controversy began after DS uploaded a video to her Instagram account (@sasetyaningtyas) expressing her desire for her children to hold foreign passports. She stated, “I grasp the world seems unfair but it’s enough for me to be an Indonesian citizen, not my children. We are trying to acquire children with strong foreign passports.” Kompas.com reported on the situation on February 22, 2026.

LPDP clarified that DS had completed her service obligations after finishing her Master’s degree in August 2017. However, the focus shifted to her husband, AP, who is also an LPDP alumnus and is suspected of not having fulfilled his obligations. Tempo.co reported that LPDP is summoning AP for clarification.

Contribution Obligations and Potential Sanctions

LPDP regulations require all scholarship recipients and alumni to contribute their services to Indonesia for a period equivalent to twice the duration of their studies plus one year (2N+1). Detik.com detailed the potential consequences of non-compliance.

Failure to meet these obligations can result in significant repercussions, including the recovery of all scholarship funds received. LPDP has stated its commitment to enforcing these regulations fairly and consistently. Memesita.com also reported on this commitment.

AP’s Educational Background

AP pursued a Master of Science (MSc) in Physical Geography at Utrecht University in the Netherlands with an LPDP scholarship, completing his studies in 2016. He then received further LPDP funding for a PhD at the same university, which he obtained in 2022. Following his PhD, he held positions as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Exeter (starting October 2022) and as a Senior Research Consultant at the University of Plymouth (starting January 2025). Detik.com provided details on his academic and professional path.

LPDP’s Stance and Next Steps

LPDP emphasized that it will maintain the integrity of the institution and enforce the rules responsibly. The institution is currently conducting an internal review and will take appropriate action based on the findings. Tempo.co reported that LPDP will be requesting clarification from AP.