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Gojek Founder Nadiem Makarim Sentenced to 10 Years in Indonesia Corruption Case Former Education Minister Convicted Over Chromebook Procurement Deal Nadiem Makarim, the co founder of Southeast Asia's popular super app Gojek, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after an Indonesian court found him guilty in a major corruption case linked to a government laptop procurement project. The 41 year old entrepreneur denied all allegations during the trial. However, the court ruled against him and handed down the prison sentence. Supporters gathered outside the courthouse in Jakarta reacted with loud boos as the verdict was announced. Court Orders Restitution Worth Millions Along with the prison term, the court ordered Makarim to repay 809 billion rupiah, which is around 45 million US dollars. Judges said the amount represented the money he allegedly gained through the project. Makarim stated that he cannot afford to pay the restitution. As a result, he could face an additional five years behind bars. The court also imposed a one billion rupiah fine. If he fails to pay the fine, he will serve another 190 days in prison. Case Linked to School Chromebook Procurement The case focuses on the Education Ministry's purchase of Chromebook laptops for schools between 2021 and 2022. According to prosecutors, officials had already concluded in 2018 that Chromebooks were not suitable for many remote regions because they depend on reliable internet access. Despite that assessment, the ministry moved forward with the purchase. Investigators claimed the decision followed a meeting between Makarim and Google representatives in 2020. They argued that the procurement process favored Google's Chrome operating system and limited fair competition during the tender process. Prosecutors Claim Tender Favored Google Prosecutors alleged that Makarim designed procurement requirements that matched only Google's Chrome based devices. They claimed this gave Google a dominant position in Indonesia's education technology system. Authorities also pointed out that Makarim continued to hold a minority share in Gojek while serving as education minister. Since Google was one of Gojek's investors, prosecutors argued that this created a conflict of interest. They further claimed that the procurement caused state losses of approximately 125 million US dollars and violated Indonesia's anti corruption commitments. Critics Question the Investigation Several critics and supporters believe the case carries political motives. They argue that investigators relied on weak evidence and targeted Makarim because of his political connections. Despite those claims, the court decided that the prosecution had presented enough evidence to secure a conviction. From Tech Entrepreneur to Government Minister Makarim co founded Gojek, one of Southeast Asia's largest technology companies. The platform serves more than 170 million users across the region and offers ride hailing, food delivery, and digital payment services. In 2019, he stepped down from Gojek to join the administration of former Indonesian President Joko Widodo as education minister. He remained in the role until 2024 before becoming the subject of the corruption investigation. What Happens Next? Makarim now faces a lengthy prison sentence along with significant financial penalties. Unless he successfully challenges the ruling through the legal process or pays the court ordered restitution, he could spend up to 15 years in prison. The verdict marks one of the most closely watched corruption cases involving a high profile technology executive and former government official in Indonesia.
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# Tributes Pour In for Comedy Icon Penelope Keith After Her Death at 86 ## The Beloved Actress Dies Peacefully at Home Award-winning British actress Dame Penelope Keith, best known for her unforgettable roles in *The Good Life* and *To the Manor Born*, has died at the age of 86. Her family confirmed on Monday that she passed away peacefully at her home in Surrey after living with cancer. She had lived in the county for more than five decades. In a statement, her family said they were deeply saddened by her passing and thanked the medical teams and loved ones who supported her throughout her treatment. They also requested privacy during this difficult time. ## A Television Legend Remembered Penelope Keith became one of Britain's most loved television stars through her portrayal of the snobbish and ambitious Margo Leadbetter in *The Good Life*. She later won the hearts of viewers again by playing aristocrat Audrey fforbes-Hamilton in *To the Manor Born*. Her remarkable performances and unique comedic timing made her one of the most respected actresses in British television history. ## Felicity Kendal Pays Emotional Tribute Actress Felicity Kendal, who starred alongside Keith in *The Good Life*, described her as a "comic genius" and a wonderful friend. Kendal said the years they spent working together were among the most special moments of her career. She also sent her condolences to Keith's husband, Rodney, calling their relationship a beautiful love story and partnership. She added that Penelope Keith brought joy to everyone around her and would be greatly missed. ## Friends and Colleagues Celebrate Her Legacy Several well-known personalities also paid tribute to the late actress. Comedian and presenter Sue Perkins praised Keith for creating some of the greatest sitcom characters ever seen on television. Broadcaster Gyles Brandreth remembered her as a generous and funny woman who dedicated much of her time to charitable causes. He said she lived a truly wonderful life and left behind an extraordinary legacy. Former Culture Secretary Sir Jeremy Hunt also expressed his sadness, describing her as a dear friend and neighbour in Surrey. He said her work helped Britain laugh at itself and brought happiness to millions of people. ## An Enduring Legacy in British Entertainment Dame Penelope Keith's career spanned decades and inspired generations of actors and comedy fans. Her memorable performances, sharp wit, and timeless characters made her one of the defining figures of British sitcoms. Although she is no longer with us, her work will continue to entertain audiences for years to come. The laughter and joy she brought to television have secured her place among the greatest stars in British entertainment history.
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