Indonesia’s Defense Minister, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, revealed that President-elect Prabowo Subianto recently engaged in a crucial dialogue with prominent national figures, described as “opposition” elements, to deliberate on the state of the nation. The significant meeting took place on Friday, January 30.
Speaking on Saturday, January 31, and quoted by Antara, Sjafrie confirmed the prior evening’s gathering. He shared this insight while addressing members of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) during a retreat at the Defense Human Resources Development Agency’s State Defense Competency Center in Cibodas, Bogor Regency, West Java. The core of the discussion, he stated, revolved around the imperative for all parties to collaboratively ensure the effective and proper management of the country.
Sjafrie emphasized that President-elect Prabowo Subianto’s initiative to meet with these opposition figures stemmed from a genuine desire to collaboratively address and resolve national issues. “That is why I want to convey that we must be realistic in looking at the situation. We must not cover up conditions that could make our country difficult,” Sjafrie explained, underscoring the need for transparency and collective action in navigating national challenges.
The Defense Minister also urged the retreat participants, as members of the press, to contribute actively to the government’s mandate by delivering informative news. He highlighted that through such responsible reporting, the media implicitly participates with the government in defending the rights of the people. Sjafrie passionately declared, “If the country faces difficulties, it is the people who will suffer the most. Therefore, our commitment to the people must be demonstrated both morally and through tangible actions.”
Following his address, Sjafrie faced a press conference where journalists pressed him for details regarding Prabowo’s meeting with the opposition figures. When asked about the identities of those involved, Sjafrie admitted to not knowing the names, stating he had “forgotten.” However, he quickly added, “What is certain is that these national figures have stated there is no opposition. This is a matter of communication, and that communication has already been established.” He further noted, “What I know is that these figures stated that now is the time for the people’s sovereignty to return.”
Sjafrie also remained evasive when questioned about the meeting’s precise location, cryptically remarking, “In a certain place. I think you (the media) know better.” However, exclusive information obtained by kumparan revealed the meeting indeed took place at Prabowo’s residence at Jalan Kartanegara number 4, South Jakarta, and lasted for a significant three hours.
The report specified that five critical figures—four men and one woman—were received by Prabowo Subianto. He was reportedly accompanied by Sjafrie himself, along with other close associates including Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya and Foreign Minister Sugiono. This significant gathering signals a proactive approach by the incoming administration to foster national unity and address critical issues through broad-based dialogue.
Summary
Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin revealed that President