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Forensic Expert Rismon Sianipar Claims AI Manipulation in Defamation Case Filed by Former Vice President Jusuf Kalla

by Ammar Sabilarrohman June 29, 2025

written by Ammar Sabilarrohman

JAKARTA – In a significant development echoing the growing complexities of digital media and legal accountability, forensic expert Rismon Sianipar, accompanied by his legal counsel, appeared at the Polda Metro Jaya on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, to address a defamation complaint lodged against him. The complaint was filed by former Vice President (Wapres) Jusuf Kalla (JK) at Bareskrim Polri on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. Kalla’s report also targeted four specific YouTube accounts, alleging they disseminated accusations that he had funded Roy Suryo and his associates with Rp5 billion to propagate the contentious issue of former President Joko Widodo’s (Jokowi) alleged fake diploma.

Rismon Sianipar vehemently denies direct responsibility for the content that led to the complaint, asserting that he is a victim of sophisticated artificial intelligence (AI) manipulation. According to Sianipar, the video at the heart of Kalla’s complaint is an AI-generated alteration of original footage featuring him. He argues that the actual creators of the AI-modified video, rather than himself, should bear the legal responsibility for its content. This defense introduces a critical dimension to the ongoing legal battle, highlighting the emergent challenges posed by advanced digital manipulation technologies in the realm of public discourse and legal precedent.

The Core Allegations and Jusuf Kalla’s Stance

The legal action initiated by Jusuf Kalla stems from serious allegations made against him concerning his purported involvement in financing a campaign to discredit former President Joko Widodo. The accusation that Kalla provided Rp5 billion to Roy Suryo and others to push the narrative of Jokowi’s fake diploma is not only politically sensitive but also carries significant reputational damage for a figure of Kalla’s stature. Jusuf Kalla, a prominent and respected elder statesman in Indonesian politics, has twice served as Vice President, under Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Joko Widodo. His career has been marked by a reputation for integrity and astute leadership, particularly in conflict resolution and economic management. An accusation of this nature, suggesting he funded a disinformation campaign against a sitting or former president, directly challenges his public image and could be perceived as an attempt to undermine democratic processes or incite public distrust.

Kalla’s decision to report not only Rismon Sianipar but also four YouTube accounts underscores his determination to combat the spread of what he considers false and damaging information. In an era where social media platforms frequently become conduits for misinformation, public figures often resort to legal means to protect their reputations and hold disseminators accountable. The inclusion of YouTube accounts in the report indicates a broader strategy to address the platforms and individuals actively involved in the propagation of the alleged defamatory content, recognizing the virality and wide reach of online videos.

A Web of Digital Deception: Rismon Sianipar’s Defense

Rismon Sianipar, a forensic expert known for his work in digital investigations, presented a unique defense centered on the concept of AI manipulation. He explained to reporters, "The video in circulation is the result of AI engineering from my video on the Balige Academy YouTube channel. That video was recorded on March 11, 2026, before I went to Solo to meet Mr. Joko Widodo. The video in circulation has been modified using AI; I am a victim." This statement places the onus of responsibility firmly on the unknown creators of the AI-altered content.

Sianipar’s defense introduces the technical intricacies of AI-generated media, specifically deepfakes and other forms of synthetic media. Deepfakes involve the use of artificial intelligence to create highly realistic but entirely fabricated videos or audio recordings, often by swapping faces or synthesizing voices. The rapid advancement of these technologies has made it increasingly difficult for the average viewer to distinguish between genuine and manipulated content. If Sianipar’s claims are substantiated through digital forensics, it would represent a significant case study in Indonesia concerning the legal implications of AI-driven misinformation.

He further emphasized the need for a thorough digital forensic investigation: "The police need to conduct digital forensic tracing to find out who first created and disseminated it. I am not responsible for the content of the engineered video." Sianipar articulated that the police’s primary objective should be to identify the original perpetrator who manipulated his legitimate content using AI and subsequently uploaded or spread it across various platforms. This argument is critical as it seeks to shift accountability from the individual whose likeness or voice was used to the party responsible for the malicious creation and distribution of the synthetic media.

Chronology of the Dispute

The timeline of events leading up to this legal confrontation is crucial for understanding the escalating tensions:

March 11, 2026: Rismon Sianipar records an original video, which is later uploaded to the Balige Academy YouTube channel. According to Sianipar, this video was produced prior to his meeting with former President Joko Widodo in Solo, suggesting it was part of his professional or academic work and not intended for political controversy. This original video forms the base material that Sianipar claims was subsequently manipulated by AI.
Early April 2026 (Implied): The AI-modified video, allegedly featuring Rismon Sianipar discussing Jusuf Kalla’s purported funding of Roy Suryo Cs, begins circulating on social media, particularly through four YouTube accounts identified by Kalla. The exact date of its initial dissemination is critical for forensic analysis.
Wednesday, April 8, 2026: Former Vice President Jusuf Kalla files a formal complaint with Bareskrim Polri. The complaint names Rismon Sianipar and the four YouTube accounts as parties responsible for disseminating defamatory content, specifically the accusation that Kalla funded a campaign regarding Jokowi’s alleged fake diploma. This action signals Kalla’s serious intent to pursue legal redress and clear his name.
Wednesday, April 15, 2026: Rismon Sianipar, accompanied by his legal team, appears at Polda Metro Jaya. During this appearance, he publicly addresses the complaint, presenting his defense that he is a victim of AI manipulation and that the video in question is an engineered product for which he holds no responsibility. He calls for a comprehensive digital forensic investigation to identify the true perpetrators.

This chronology highlights a rapid escalation from online content dissemination to a high-profile legal dispute, underscoring the swift impact of digital misinformation.

The Broader Context: Political Climate and Digital Misinformation

The controversy surrounding Jokowi’s alleged fake diploma is not new. It has periodically resurfaced in Indonesian political discourse, often during election cycles or periods of heightened political tension. Such issues are frequently weaponized to undermine political figures, erode public trust, and sway public opinion. The "fake diploma" narrative, despite being repeatedly debunked by official sources and educational institutions, persists in certain segments of the online sphere, fueled by a combination of genuine skepticism, partisan agendas, and deliberate disinformation campaigns.

Roy Suryo, a former Minister of Youth and Sports and a well-known information technology expert, has previously been involved in public discussions and controversies related to digital media and political issues. His name being linked to this specific accusation, allegedly funded by Jusuf Kalla, adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, suggesting a coordinated effort by multiple parties. The political landscape in Indonesia, characterized by robust online activism and a high degree of social media penetration, provides fertile ground for the rapid spread of both factual information and harmful misinformation. This incident is a stark reminder of how digital content, particularly videos, can be used to influence public perception and create deep divisions.

Legal Ramifications and the Challenge of AI

This case presents significant legal challenges, particularly under Indonesia’s Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) Law, which governs online defamation and the dissemination of false information. The ITE Law has been a subject of debate for its broad interpretations and potential for misuse, but it remains the primary legal instrument for addressing cybercrime and online content-related offenses.

The core legal question revolves around attribution and intent. If Rismon Sianipar’s claims of AI manipulation are proven, the legal focus will shift dramatically. Prosecuting cases involving deepfakes is notoriously difficult due to:

Attribution: Identifying the original creator of AI-generated content can be challenging, as perpetrators often use anonymizing tools and operate across international borders.
Intent: Proving malicious intent behind the creation and dissemination of such content requires tracing the entire chain of production and distribution.
Expertise: Law enforcement agencies require specialized digital forensic capabilities and highly skilled experts to analyze AI-generated media, differentiate it from genuine content, and uncover its origins.

This case could set a crucial legal precedent in Indonesia regarding the responsibility of individuals whose original content is manipulated by AI, versus the responsibility of those who perform the manipulation and dissemination. It forces the judiciary to grapple with the technological frontier of evidence and accountability. The outcome will likely influence how similar cases are handled in the future and could prompt a reevaluation of existing laws to explicitly address AI-generated misinformation.

Implications for Public Trust and Platform Accountability

The proliferation of deepfakes and AI-generated content poses a grave threat to public trust in media and information. When it becomes difficult to discern truth from fabrication, the foundation of informed public discourse erodes, impacting everything from political elections to public health campaigns. This case, involving prominent public figures and a contentious political issue, will undoubtedly draw significant public attention and scrutiny.

Moreover, the role of platforms like YouTube in moderating and removing AI-generated misinformation comes under renewed focus. While many platforms have policies against deepfakes and harmful misinformation, their implementation and enforcement vary. This incident will likely reignite calls for:

Proactive Detection: Platforms investing more in AI-powered tools to detect and flag synthetic media automatically.
Clearer Policies: Establishing unambiguous policies regarding AI-generated content and its dissemination.
Faster Takedowns: Expediting the process of removing verified deepfakes and defamatory content.
Transparency: Providing greater transparency on how content moderation decisions are made.

The legal action taken by Jusuf Kalla, and Rismon Sianipar’s defense, underscore the urgent need for a multi-faceted approach involving legal frameworks, technological solutions, and platform accountability to combat the rising tide of AI-driven misinformation.

Moving Forward: The Path of Digital Forensics

The immediate next steps in this case will heavily rely on the capabilities and thoroughness of the digital forensic investigation. Police investigators will need to:

Collect Evidence: Secure all relevant digital evidence from the YouTube accounts, associated servers, and any other platforms where the video was disseminated.
Analyze the Video: Employ specialized software and forensic techniques to analyze the video in question. This involves looking for artifacts, inconsistencies, and other tell-tale signs of AI manipulation. Experts can often detect anomalies in facial movements, lighting, shadows, and audio synchronization that betray synthetic media.
Trace Origins: Attempt to trace the digital footprint of the AI-modified video back to its point of origin, including identifying the IP addresses, accounts, and individuals responsible for its creation and initial upload.
Interview Witnesses: Gather statements from all involved parties, including Jusuf Kalla, Rismon Sianipar, and potentially representatives from the YouTube channels if identifiable.

The successful resolution of this case will not only determine the fate of Rismon Sianipar and the implicated YouTube accounts but also provide invaluable insights into how Indonesia’s legal system adapts to the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital landscape. It stands as a pivotal moment in the ongoing global battle against misinformation and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. The outcome could significantly influence future legal strategies for public figures targeted by deepfakes and shape the responsibilities of platforms in maintaining a trustworthy information environment.

June 29, 2025 0 comment

Business and Finance

Rismon Sianipar Denies Multi-Billion Rupiah Pay-Out, Challenges Roy Suryo to Scientifically Substantiate Claims

by Reynand Wu June 25, 2025

written by Reynand Wu

JAKARTA – Forensic expert Rismon Sianipar has vehemently denied allegations from the camp of Roy Suryo that he received billions of rupiah, potentially up to Rp50 billion, following his public apology and admission of error to former President Joko Widodo (Jokowi). Sianipar, whose recantation earlier sparked considerable debate, has now issued a direct challenge to Roy Suryo, demanding scientific proof for the claims presented in the controversial book, "Jokowi’s White Paper." This latest development, unfolding on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, escalates an already protracted and politically charged dispute surrounding the authenticity of President Widodo’s academic qualifications.

The controversy dates back several years, rooted in persistent claims questioning the legitimacy of President Jokowi’s diploma from Gadjah Mada University (UGM). These allegations, often amplified in online discourse and by political opponents, gained traction and led to public scrutiny. At the heart of these claims was "Jokowi’s White Paper," a document or publication reportedly detailing purported inconsistencies and anomalies in the President’s educational background. Roy Suryo, a prominent figure known for his background in information technology and multimedia, became a vocal proponent of these claims, lending his perceived expertise to the arguments presented in the White Paper. His involvement amplified the controversy, positioning it as a matter requiring expert forensic scrutiny.

Rismon Sianipar, an expert in forensic analysis, initially entered the fray, reportedly contributing to or supporting the narrative that questioned the authenticity of President Jokowi’s diploma. His early statements and analyses, presented within the public domain, were interpreted by some as bolstering the claims made in "Jokowi’s White Paper." His involvement was significant because, as a forensic expert, his opinions carried a certain weight, potentially influencing public perception regarding the veracity of the allegations. The public awaited a definitive resolution, often caught between conflicting expert opinions and politically motivated narratives.

However, the narrative took a dramatic turn when Sianipar, after conducting what he described as further in-depth research, publicly retracted his earlier statements and issued a formal apology to President Jokowi. In a move that surprised many observers, Sianipar admitted that his prior findings or interpretations had been erroneous. This recantation was a pivotal moment, as it undermined a significant pillar of the claims against the President’s diploma. Sianipar’s rationale for this shift, as he explained, was a commitment to scientific integrity and the rectification of any inaccuracies discovered through continued research. He emphasized that as a researcher, an independent and unbiased approach is paramount, and the admission of error is an ethical obligation when new evidence or understanding emerges.

Following Sianipar’s recantation and apology, a new wave of accusations emerged from Roy Suryo’s camp. These allegations suggested that Sianipar’s change of stance was not driven by scientific discovery but by financial inducement. Specifically, it was claimed that Sianipar had received a substantial sum of money, with figures ranging into the billions of rupiah, some reports even citing Rp50 billion, from President Jokowi’s side as a payoff for retracting his earlier statements. These claims quickly circulated, adding another layer of complexity and suspicion to an already sensitive issue. The accusations implied a deliberate attempt to manipulate expert testimony for political gain, raising serious questions about the integrity of the individuals involved and the broader implications for public trust in expert opinions.

In response to these grave allegations, Rismon Sianipar convened a press conference on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, to unequivocally refute the claims of financial impropriety. "I want to clarify the issue circulating outside that I received billions, even tens of billions, up to Rp50 billion," Sianipar stated firmly. "I vehemently deny this. The entire RJ process was my initiative, based on the research I conducted." The "RJ process" Sianipar referred to, while not explicitly defined as a formal legal mechanism in this context, appears to denote his personal initiative for reconciliation and correction based on his updated research findings. He underscored that his actions were a result of his independent investigative work and a commitment to scientific truth, not any external pressure or financial incentive.

Sianipar further elaborated on the illogical nature of the accusations. He argued that it defies common sense for someone who has admitted an error and apologized to the wronged party to then receive a substantial payment from that very party. "I admitted my mistake and apologized to Jokowi, so logically it wouldn’t be possible," he explained. "If anything, I should be the one compensating Jokowi for the error I made." This argument highlights Sianipar’s position that his actions were driven by remorse and a commitment to rectifying his research, rather than being a transaction. He painted a picture of a researcher upholding ethical standards, even when it meant publicly acknowledging a previous mistake, and saw the accusations of bribery as a smear campaign.

Beyond simply denying the financial allegations, Sianipar issued a direct and pointed challenge to Roy Suryo. He called upon Suryo to scientifically substantiate the claims made in "Jokowi’s White Paper." This challenge elevates the dispute from a personal attack to a demand for rigorous scientific evidence, placing the onus on Suryo to demonstrate the academic and forensic integrity of his assertions. Sianipar’s demand implies that the White Paper, if it purports to be based on expert analysis, must withstand scientific scrutiny and peer review, rather than relying on unsubstantiated allegations or politically motivated interpretations. This move shifts the focus back to the core subject matter: the scientific validity of the claims against President Jokowi’s diploma.

The dispute between Sianipar and Roy Suryo, alongside the broader diploma controversy, carries significant implications for various stakeholders and the wider public. Primarily, it underscores the critical importance of scientific integrity and independence, particularly for forensic experts whose opinions can profoundly influence public perception and legal outcomes. When experts are perceived to be swayed by political agendas or financial incentives, it erodes trust in scientific methodology and the impartiality of expert testimony. This erosion of trust can have far-reaching consequences, making it difficult for the public to discern truth from misinformation, especially in politically charged environments.

From a political standpoint, the ongoing saga highlights the weaponization of information and expert opinions in political discourse. Allegations surrounding a leader’s qualifications, regardless of their veracity, can be potent tools for delegitimizing an administration or individual. The constant back-and-forth, with accusations of bribery and demands for scientific proof, serves to prolong the controversy, keeping it alive in the public consciousness and potentially creating an atmosphere of doubt and suspicion. For President Jokowi’s administration, while Sianipar’s apology offered some vindication, the continued allegations of payoff introduce a new layer of complexity that requires careful management.

Legal implications are also a significant consideration. The accusations of bribery against Sianipar, if proven false, could potentially lead to defamation lawsuits. Conversely, if there were any credible evidence of financial inducement, it could open avenues for legal action against those involved. The demand for scientific proof of "Jokowi’s White Paper" could also lead to legal challenges, forcing the proponents of the paper to present their evidence in a court of law or face accusations of spreading unsubstantiated claims. The legal ramifications could extend to professional bodies governing forensic experts, potentially leading to ethical inquiries or sanctions if misconduct is established.

Reactions from other parties involved in the wider political landscape have been anticipated. While no direct statements from President Jokowi’s office were immediately available regarding the latest allegations, it is plausible that any official response would emphasize the importance of truth, the rule of law, and the President’s legitimate qualifications. For Roy Suryo’s camp, a likely response would be to double down on their accusations, perhaps questioning Sianipar’s credibility further or demanding a more transparent account of his finances and the circumstances surrounding his recantation. Legal representatives for Suryo might also reiterate their belief in the claims made in "Jokowi’s White Paper," perhaps indicating a willingness to present their evidence if challenged in a formal setting. Independent legal and ethical experts would likely stress the need for evidence-based claims, the perils of trial by media, and the importance of due process in resolving such disputes.

The future trajectory of this dispute remains uncertain. Sianipar’s challenge to Roy Suryo could potentially lead to a formal scientific review or debate, a development that would be welcomed by those seeking clarity and evidence-based conclusions. Alternatively, the dispute could devolve into further legal battles, with both parties seeking redress through the courts. What is clear, however, is that this ongoing controversy transcends the immediate individuals involved. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in maintaining factual integrity in an age of rapid information dissemination, particularly when political stakes are high. The public’s demand for transparency, accountability, and verifiable truth will continue to press for a definitive resolution to the lingering questions surrounding President Jokowi’s diploma and the conduct of those involved in the public discourse. The resolution of this specific contention will undoubtedly influence future standards for expert testimony and public debate in Indonesia’s dynamic political landscape.

June 25, 2025 0 comment