Gibran's Bachelor's Degree Equivalency Certificate: Honorary Title Disappears? Roy Suryo Raises Questions

Roy Suryo, former Minister of Culture and Tourism and a prominent photographer, has raised suspicions regarding the Bachelor's Degree Equivalency Certificate (SK Penyetaraan Ijazah S1) of Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the Mayor of Surakarta and a presidential candidate. According to Suryo, the certificate initially included the honorary title "Yang Terhormat" (The Honorable), but this was later removed from a subsequently issued document. This issue has garnered significant attention in Indonesia, especially given Gibran's candidacy as a vice-presidential running mate in the upcoming presidential election, heightening public interest in his academic background and credentials. Suryo is calling for a public explanation regarding the reasons behind the removal of the honorary title. In Indonesia, the academic and professional background of public officials is considered a crucial factor in gaining public trust. Questions concerning the validity of degrees and formal procedures often become subjects of political debate. While some view this matter concerning Gibran's certificate as part of political maneuvering, it can also be seen as an expression of public demand for transparency and accountability from public officials.